IN THE SHADE OF THE OLD APPLE TREE - Free Jazz Leadsheet

Composed by Harry Williams with lyrics by Egbert Van Alstyne in 1905, "in the shade of the old apple tree" is a nostalgic, sentimental ballad celebrating the charm of pastoral romance. Its simple melodic structure made it easily adaptable for early jazz interpretations.

Recordings in the early 20th century brought its idyllic imagery to life, while jazz musicians later added swing elements and instrumental ornamentation.

The lyrics depict romantic idylls under an apple tree, and the musical form allows performers to blend lyrical phrasing with expressive improvisation.