Materials and Concepts in Jazz Improvisation

Book excerpt: Materials and Concepts in Jazz Improvisation is a comprehensive and concise compilation of the various harmonic and melodic devices used by jazz musicians. It attempts to deal with these materials, (and later, the concepts), in a manner that allows for the greatest possible freedom and flexibility without resorting to mere "licks." The text presents the student and teacher with a conceptual framework that explains "why" as well as "how." It can be used by musicians at any stage of development, but it does assume a rudimentary grounding in music theory. For students and teachers of jazz at any level, it provides a linear perspective on improvisation and harmony from the simplest to the most advanced concepts; it can also function as a reference text for anyone involved in jazz at any level from hobbyist to professional, providing quick and easy descriptions and definitions of the musical materials found in jazz. It can be used for individual study, in classroom settings (jazz theory, jazz improvisation, or jazz pedagogy), in private lessons, or simply as a resource volume.