18 Standards from the Great American Songbook Arranged for Developing Jazz Players
This collection features 18 standards from the Great American Songbook in new and fresh arrangements that are perfect for the young musician who has been playing 2 – 4 years and is interested in learning about jazz styles. The book includes the melody and chord changes for each song along with an easy sample solo to help beginning improvisers get started with their jazz journey. Each piece includes two recorded tracks: a full demonstration recording with a soloist performing with a rhythm section and a track with just the rhythm section. The arrangements have been carefully crafted to reflect a variety of jazz styles while maintaining the essence of the tune and staying close to the way the piece is usually performed. This resource is a fun and easy way to open the door to the jazz world!
Full Performance Sample Tracks
About Peter Blair
Blair Bielawski, also known under his writer name Peter Blair, has an extensive and varied background in music education, composition, and performance. He holds a BA from Carroll University (Waukesha, WI) and an MA from the University of Wisconsin.
Currently, Blair is the Jazz Editor at Excelcia Music Publishing. An accomplished composer and arranger, he has over 70 compositions and arrangements in print, as well as many commissions for college, high school, and middle school groups throughout the United States. His music for jazz ensemble has been published by Hal Leonard, Lorenz/Heritage JazzWorks, Alfred and Kendor.
Blair has been recognized by ASCAP for his compositions for jazz ensemble and vocal jazz choir. His music has appeared in many network and cable TV shows including Blind Spot, CSI, Agents of SHIELD and Las Vegas. His movie credits include "The Imitation Game" and "The Box".
As a performer, Blair has worked with artists including Natalie Cole, Tony Bennett, Aretha Franklin, the Temptations and the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra. He has worked with the Broadway touring companies of 42nd Street, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Annie, Chicago, A Chorus Line, and Guys and Dolls. As a clinician, he has presented workshops for Ohio, Colorado, Minnesota, Illinois, California, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Florida Music Educator Conferences as well as being the featured speaker for sessions in London, Toronto, and Vancouver.