SusieJazzColumn Jones JazzChair

Abig “thank you” to those of you who responded to last issue’s “Jazz Column” addressing All-State audition material. Many of you came forward with great ideas for literature and procedures. I will continue to collect your ideas and form a committee to finalize a plan that can be put into place for next year. If you would like to serve on that committee or have input, please let me know.

Until then, here is something that you might be able to use: a list of solos that are easy to transcribe. That’s right, transcribe! Transcribing is fun and there is no better way to learn about jazz than by going right to the source. Those of us who have transcribed before know that choosing easy solos is the key to success in the beginning. Most students shouldn’t attempt Joshua Redman’s “St. Thomas” until they have quite a bit of experience behind them. Have your students try one or two of the solos listed below. If your students seem overwhelmed (some may lack good notational skills), try giving them part of the answer. Give them a guide sheet with rhythms only and let them figure out the notes, or give them the first note of each measure and let them fill in the rest. Good luck!

Artist Song

CD title

Chet Baker Star Eyes Somewhere Over The Rainbow Chet Baker But Not For Me The Best Of Chet Baker Sings

Miles Davis Bye, Bye, Blackbird Kinda Blue

Miles Davis Freddie Freeloader Kinda Blue

Lou Donaldson Now’s The Time A Night In Birdland (Art Blakey)

Kenny Dorham Blue Spring Shuffle Quiet Kenny

Dexter Gordon Heartaches Gettin’ Around J.J. Johnson Satin Doll Trombone Master

Wynton Kelly Freddie Freeloader Kinda Blue (Miles Davis)

Clark Terry Jim Oscar Peterson Trio & Clark Terry

Wes Montgomery James and Wes The Verve Jazz Sides

As always, if you have questions or ideas about jazz in Oregon you may contact me at: Susie Jones 503.491.7158 joness@mhcc.edu