Creative Jazz Improvisation

The leading textbook in jazz improvisation, Creative Jazz Improvisation, Fifth Edition, is a comprehensive compendium of knowledge and practice resources for the university classroom, suitable for all musicians looking to develop and sharpen their soloing skills. It is logically organized and guided by a philosophy that encourages creativity, featuring exercises in twelve keys, ear training, keyboard drills, a comprehensive catalog of relevant songs to learn, and a wide range of solo transcriptions. Chapters highlight discussions of jazz theory, and a robust companion website features additional exercises, ear training, play-along tracks, tunes, call and response tracks, keyboard voicings, and transcriptions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 17 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Fifth Edition of Creative Jazz Improvisation, widely regarded as the preeminent textbook in jazz improvisation, serves as an invaluable compendium of knowledge and practical resources for university classrooms, catering to musicians of all levels seeking to enhance and refine their soloing abilities. This meticulously organized and philosophically driven book offers practical guidance that extends beyond mere theory, featuring engaging exercises spanning twelve keys, ear training drills, and keyboard exercises. Additionally, it provides a comprehensive catalog of relevant songs to study, along with a diverse array of solo transcriptions, each meticulously transposed for C, Bb, Eb, and bass clef instruments. Throughout its chapters, the book delves into discussions of jazz theory, encompassing a wide range of topics such as major scale modes, forms, chord substitutions, melodic minor modes, diminished and whole-tone modes, pentatonic scales, intervallic improvisation, free improvisation, and more. Furthermore, the Fifth Edition boasts updated content throughout, focusing on the essential fundamentals of learning to improvise.

One notable addition to this edition is the collaboration of co-author Tom Walsh, who brings his expertise and insights to the table. Furthermore, the book includes an expanded selection of solo transcriptions featuring the exceptional talents of female and Latino jazz artists, further diversifying the musical landscape. To enhance the learning experience, a new chapter titled "Odd Meters" has been included, offering valuable insights into the complexities of playing in odd time signatures. Moreover, a robust companion website accompanies the book, providing an abundance of additional exercises, ear training materials, play-along tracks, tunes, call-and-response tracks, keyboard voicings, and transcriptions. These resources are accompanied by Spotify and YouTube links, allowing students to explore and analyze the featured solos in greater detail.

At its core, Creative Jazz Improvisation, Fifth Edition embraces the notion that there is no singular or definitive approach to learning jazz. Rather, it encourages individuals to develop their own jazz vocabulary and improvisational techniques through a multifaceted and inclusive approach. By exploring various musical styles, modes, and rhythmic patterns, musicians can expand their musical horizons and cultivate a unique improvisational style that reflects their individual expression. Whether you are a seasoned jazz musician or a newcomer to the genre, this textbook serves as a valuable companion on your journey to mastery in jazz improvisation.

Dimension: 280 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032253985
Edition number: 5 ed