Jazz Theory for Arrangers : From Chords to Combos

Jazz Theory for Arrangers integrates jazz improvisation theory, chord voicings, and arranging techniques to provide foundational knowledge for beginning arrangers and composers working with small jazz ensembles.

Jazz Theory for Arrangers integrates jazz improvisation theory, chord voicings, and arranging techniques to provide foundational knowledge for beginning arrangers and composers working with small jazz ensembles. The book opens with essential jazz theory concepts including common chord progressions, scales, formal structures, and melodic characteristics. Concepts important to jazz harmony are applied through an introduction to jazz piano voicings, followed by discussion of the rhythmic characteristics of jazz (swing) melody, guiding the reader through the types of syncopations common to jazz, as well as other features of successful melody. Supported by original musical examples throughout, the book concludes with a series of arrangement exercises, from solo piano and exercises in writing for the jazz rhythm section, to full-blown arrangements for the jazz quintet through octet. Additional support at the book’s companion website includes audio recordings of five complete arrangements included with the book, as well as numerous PDF workbook assignments. Jazz Theory for Arrangers will be an invaluable resource to undergraduate music students wishing to apply jazz theoretical knowledge to arranging for small jazz groups.