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 and features 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 the book includes updated content on the nuts and bolts of learning to improvise. New to the Fifth Edition are additional solo transcriptions featuring the work of female and Latino jazz artists, a new chapter on "Odd Meters," a robust companion website featuring additional exercises, ear training, play-along tracks, tunes, call and response tracks, keyboard voicings, and transcriptions, and Spotify and YouTube links to many of the featured solos. The book explores the means and methods for developing one's jazz vocabulary and improvisational techniques.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 19 August 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 who aspire to enhance and refine their soloing abilities. This meticulously organized and thoughtfully guided book employs a philosophy that fosters creativity, offering practical advice that extends beyond mere theory. It encompasses a wide array of exercises, ear training drills, keyboard drills, a comprehensive catalog of relevant songs to study, and a diverse collection 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 diverse 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 many more. Furthermore, this edition has been updated with fresh content, focusing on the essential aspects of learning to improvise.

One notable addition to the Fifth Edition is the involvement of co-author Tom Walsh, who brings his expertise and contributions to the book. Additionally, the edition features an expanded selection of solo transcriptions that showcase the talents of female and Latino jazz artists, further broadening the scope and representation of jazz improvisation. A new chapter titled "Odd Meters" has been included to address the unique challenges and opportunities presented by odd time signatures, adding depth and versatility to the repertoire of jazz musicians.

Furthermore, a robust companion website accompanies the textbook, offering an abundance of additional exercises, ear training materials, play-along tracks, tunes, call-and-response tracks, keyboard voicings, and transcriptions. These resources are designed to enhance the learning experience and provide musicians with further opportunities to practice and develop their skills. Additionally, the website includes Spotify and YouTube links to many of the featured solos, allowing musicians to listen to and study the performances of renowned jazz artists firsthand.

At its core, Creative Jazz Improvisation, Fifth Edition is grounded in the belief that there is no singular or definitive approach to learning jazz. Rather, it encourages musicians to explore and develop their own jazz vocabulary and improvisational techniques through a diverse range of methods and approaches. By presenting a comprehensive and inclusive framework, this edition empowers musicians to cultivate their unique musical voice and embark on a lifelong journey of musical exploration and growth. Whether you are a seasoned jazz musician or a newcomer to the world of improvisation, Creative Jazz Improvisation, Fifth Edition is an essential resource that will guide you on your path to becoming a skilled and expressive jazz soloist.

Weight: 890g
Dimension: 280 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032254036
Edition number: 5 ed