A NIGHTINGALE SANG IN BERKELEY SQUARE - Free Jazz Leadsheet

'A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square' was composed by Manning Sherwin with lyrics by Eric Maschwitz and published in 1939. Its first popular recording was by the British dance band of Geraldo, capturing the song's romantic, atmospheric quality.

The tune has since been recorded by Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra, and countless jazz vocalists, who emphasize its lyrical sophistication and intimate mood. It is often performed as a ballad, highlighting the song's ability to evoke nostalgia and romantic sentiment.

Musically, the song features a flowing, expressive melody over a harmonic progression that supports both vocal expression and instrumental improvisation. The lyrics evoke an idealized, romantic vision of London, blending charm, longing, and wistfulness.