Up Jumped Spring

by Freddie Hubbard, arr. by Sam Fettig

Jazz Ensemble Grade 3

ABOUT THE SONG

Up Jumped Spring was first recorded in 1962 by Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers with composer Freddie Hubbard on trumpet. 

It has since been performed and recorded by many, and is a staple in the jazz standard repertoire. 

It is a 3/4 jazz waltz in AABA form. Each A section is 16 measures long, and the B section (bridge) is 8 measures long, for a total of 56 measures. It is primarily in the key of Bb Major. 

ABOUT THE ARRANGEMENT

Following an introduction, the AABA song form begins at measure 29 where the melody is first stated by a soli of baritone sax and trombone, with the option of baritone sax and all trombones. 

The bridge at measure 61 is played by solo guitar, and is cued in all parts. 

The counter melody beginning in measure 45 in alto 1 and trumpet 1 is believed to have been arranged on the spot by trombonist Curtis Fuller when Mr. Hubbard showed him the song. You can hear Curtis Fuller play it in the 1962 Art Blakey album “Three Blind Mice”. 

The solo section at bar 99 is open to any player.  Solos typically follow the song’s chord progression. Here, however, a simpler chord progression was created to allow even beginning improvisors to have success. The extra Lead Sheet and Solo Guide page has more information. 

Measure 123 beings a bluesy-feeling vamp with different groups of instruments entering at different times. It should build until the 6th and final time. 

The optional notes in some brass parts in measures 69 and 145 were written in consideration of a developing musician’s range. Upper notes should be played if possible, but the lower notes will sound good.