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Bart Howard Sheet Music

About Bart Howard

Bart Howard (born Howard Joseph Gustafson; 1915–2004) was a celebrated American songwriter and pianist, best known for his timeless contributions to the Great American Songbook. Primarily composing in the jazz and cabaret styles, Howard's musical legacy is defined by his ability to craft intimate and memorable songs with beautiful melodies and sensitive lyrics. His most significant work, "Fly Me to the Moon," achieved global recognition and remains one of the most frequently performed and recorded jazz standards, solidifying his place in music history.

  • Bart Howard's most famous song, "Fly Me to the Moon," was originally titled "In Other Words" when it was first performed in 1954. Singer Peggy Lee later suggested changing the title, leading to its enduring name.
  • The iconic Frank Sinatra recording of "Fly Me to the Moon," arranged by Quincy Jones, gained further renown when it was played aboard Apollo 11, becoming the first song ever heard on the Moon.
  • Howard spent many years as a prominent accompanist for cabaret stars like Mabel Mercer and served as the master of ceremonies and intermission pianist at New York's famous Blue Angel nightclub for eight years, introducing performers such as Johnny Mathis and Eartha Kitt.
  • He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1999, recognizing his significant contributions to American popular music.

Playing Bart Howard's music offers a rewarding experience for musicians of various skill levels, particularly those interested in jazz, pop standards, and cabaret repertoire. His compositions, especially "Fly Me to the Moon," are widely available for piano, voice, and instrumental ensembles, making them suitable for intermediate to advanced players looking to explore classic melodies and sophisticated harmonic structures. The enduring charm of his songs lies in their emotional depth and lyrical elegance, providing a rich canvas for expressive performance whether as a vocalist, pianist, or part of a jazz combo. Many of his works, including "Fly Me to the Moon," are featured in examination pieces for instruments like clarinet and saxophone, indicating their value for musical study and development.

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