CircaRevival
05-06-2006, 08:47 PM
This thread is made for you to post what you think of a book you own or bought. Post some information about this book, where it can be bought, why it is great, does it come with a play-a-long disc, ISBN, etc.
I think we could make this a good resource for people to look at if they are thinking about buying a book. Also, you may request someone to review a book for you.
I'll start us off.
Patterns for Jazz, by Jerry Coker
This book, IMO, is a standard for Jazz players. I am very new to Jazz, but I'll try to write some thoughts.
a) This book is LONG, and has about 400 patterns. From basic major triads to complex chords this covers everything.
b) Going through this book cover-to-cover is a great way to learn your chords and scales. The first 80 or so patterns are on based around major triads and if you work your way though all these you will MASTER them, and you will have a lot of little licks and ideas for improv.
c) The book has lots of patterns borrowed from the greats, for example, the 1-2-3-5 major pattern was used by John Coltrane to work through chords in tunes, and he played that pattern in Giant Steps several times. These are cited throughout the book.
d) There are handy little explanations about the new sections and types of patterns you are working on. There are also charts that outline chords.
e) This book will last you years. The binding is weak, take it to your local Kinko's (copy center) and get it spiral bound.
This book can be found at www.jazzbooks.com for $24.95. It is availible in treble and bass cleff editions.
I think we could make this a good resource for people to look at if they are thinking about buying a book. Also, you may request someone to review a book for you.
I'll start us off.
Patterns for Jazz, by Jerry Coker
This book, IMO, is a standard for Jazz players. I am very new to Jazz, but I'll try to write some thoughts.
a) This book is LONG, and has about 400 patterns. From basic major triads to complex chords this covers everything.
b) Going through this book cover-to-cover is a great way to learn your chords and scales. The first 80 or so patterns are on based around major triads and if you work your way though all these you will MASTER them, and you will have a lot of little licks and ideas for improv.
c) The book has lots of patterns borrowed from the greats, for example, the 1-2-3-5 major pattern was used by John Coltrane to work through chords in tunes, and he played that pattern in Giant Steps several times. These are cited throughout the book.
d) There are handy little explanations about the new sections and types of patterns you are working on. There are also charts that outline chords.
e) This book will last you years. The binding is weak, take it to your local Kinko's (copy center) and get it spiral bound.
This book can be found at www.jazzbooks.com for $24.95. It is availible in treble and bass cleff editions.