[Dixielandjazz] Definitive Panama

[Ken Mathieson]

Hi All,

Sheik asked about the definitive version of Panama. I've no idea what that could be, but if it's any help, the Bob Crosby Orchestra's version is not the one to follow. There is of course nothing wrong with the performance or with Matty Matlock's arrangement, provided you accept that the arranger has total licence to rewrite the tune.

I once transcribed and reduced Matty's chart to suit a band with 2 brass, 3 reeds & 3 rhythm and was astonished to find that Matty kept the whole thing in the key of Eb throughout and omitted at least one of the themes. Matty's chart is a great one, but it's not going to be much use to anyone who wants to learn the piece. Check it out: you'll enjoy it, but you'll be amazed by the liberties he took with it.

Cheers,

Ken Mathieson

www.classicjazzorchestra.org.uk