Hard Bop Piano: Jazz Compositions of the 50s and 60s

Rating:
Summary: Wonderful transcriptions of exotic tunes
Review: Hard Bop Piano is a unique and extremely valuable collection of rarely played and largely under-appreciated tunes by some of the finest jazz pianists of the 50s and 60s. The authors present a number of pieces by the likes of Randy Weston, Herbie Nichols and Andrew Hill, each of whom carved out an utterly distinctive and instantly recognizable style for himself during the heyday of hard bop. Weston and Nichols, in particular, were extremely fine composers, each with a flair for off-kilter rhythms and unexpected, charming melodies; and the inclusion of their work alone would make this an essential addition to any jazz lover's library. The transcriptions are unusually good, and often include not only the basic melody and harmony of each tune, but also elements of their original recorded arrangements. This book would make a wonderful gift for any jazz pianist, regardless of their level of expertise.

Rating:
Summary: Wonderful transcriptions of exotic tunes
Review: Hard Bop Piano is a unique and extremely valuable collection of rarely played and largely under-appreciated tunes by some of the finest jazz pianists of the 50s and 60s. The authors present a number of pieces by the likes of Randy Weston, Herbie Nichols and Andrew Hill, each of whom carved out an utterly distinctive and instantly recognizable style for himself during the heyday of hard bop. Weston and Nichols, in particular, were extremely fine composers, each with a flair for off-kilter rhythms and unexpected, charming melodies; and the inclusion of their work alone would make this an essential addition to any jazz lover's library. The transcriptions are unusually good, and often include not only the basic melody and harmony of each tune, but also elements of their original recorded arrangements. This book would make a wonderful gift for any jazz pianist, regardless of their level of expertise.