While it’s always extremely rewarding to release your own music, I find it equally gratifying to arrange the music of others. For one, it’s a different kind of challenge because people know the material you’re arranging (hopefully), which means you can offer a unique perspective. That said, it’s important to think deeply about what you want to say through someone else’s voice. It’s an additional reward if you can do this with a living composer so they, too, can enjoy the music through a different lens.
With Reflections On Love, I was able to experience this with my father. He has written one track on the album, “I Know”, which was originally a vocal tune. When I played the new arrangement for him, I could tell from his reaction that the spirit of the song was maintained. Most of the other tracks are by composers who are no longer around, but their classic tunes continue to be the source for new arrangements and solos. And since these are relatively known gems, I’m hoping my approach to harmony and different settings will bring something new and fresh to the listening experience.
As a background to the motivation for this album, much of my high school and post college years were spent studying with Ray Cassarino – a dedicated jazz pianist / arranger from the Hartford / Wethersfield area of CT. Ray imparted his love of reharmonizing tunes via a personal system that he developed over the years. His approach guides a student through the very basics of tonal harmony, culminating in a very free approach with specific instructions on achieving this. I was one of the few students lucky enough to work on all seven levels of his reharmonization concepts.
Because of this experience, I’ve always wanted to share what I’ve learned through arranging standards. For each tune, every note has been carefully chosen and performed. Hints of the original chords exist throughout, but with several harmonic detours. I find that the best way to listen is to check out any of the standards that are unfamiliar and then return to the new arrangement. I believe this offers more insight into the personal relationship between the arranger and the song itself.
Happy listening!
Best,
Tom
Listen on Bandcamp here
