The French title of an American jazz classic instrumental song is “Sur Le Pont d’Avignon” (On the Bridge of Avignon). This title is the French translation of the song “Take the ‘A’ Train,” which was composed by Billy Strayhorn and made famous by Duke Ellington and his orchestra.
“Take the ‘A’ Train” was written in 1939, and it quickly became a hit in the jazz world. The song’s title refers to the subway line that Strayhorn would take to get to Ellington’s apartment in Harlem. Ellington loved the song and made it his band’s signature tune, performing it countless times over the years.
In 1941, the French jazz critic Hugues Panassié translated the song’s title as “Sur Le Pont d’Avignon” in his book “Le Jazz Hot.” The French title refers to the famous bridge in Avignon, France, which is the subject of a well-known French folk song. The choice of this title may seem puzzling, as there is no apparent connection between the song and the bridge. However, it is worth noting that the French title does not attempt to translate the original meaning of the song’s title, but rather to give it a catchy and memorable title in French.
Today, “Sur Le Pont d’Avignon” is a well-known jazz standard in France, and it is often performed by French jazz musicians. The song has also been recorded by many non-French jazz musicians, who may or may not be aware of its French title.
In conclusion, the French title of the American jazz classic instrumental song “Take the ‘A’ Train” is “Sur Le Pont d’Avignon.” The title is a French translation of the original title, and it was coined by a French jazz critic in the 1940s. The French title has since become well-known in France, and it is a testament to the enduring popularity of this classic jazz tune.
