Free Jazz Standard Sheet Music Downloads

"Emily" was composed by Johnny Mandel with lyrics by Johnny Mercer in 1964. It served as the title theme for the film The Americanization of Emily, starring James Garner and Julie Andrews. Since only an instrumental version appeared in the film, the song was ineligible for an Academy Award nomination.

Written as a waltz in 3/4 time, the tune is most commonly performed in the key of C or G major. Its harmony is rich with ii–V–I movements that provide smooth, logical motion through frequent modulations across sections. The melody flows with an effortless lyricism that belies its harmonic sophistication, offering generous material for improvisation. The combination of the waltz feel and these shifting tonal centers creates an atmosphere of wistful tenderness that has made it a favorite among pianists and saxophonists alike.

The song became indelibly associated with Bill Evans, who first recorded it for his 1967 album Further Conversations with Myself and returned to it throughout his career, notably on But Beautiful (1974). Alto saxophonist Paul Desmond also delivered a memorable reading on his 1969 album Summertime.