Description
Book SynopsisThis is a comprehensive instructional text and reference guidebook on the art and craft of jazz composition and arranging for small and large ensembles. It is written from the perspective of doing the work using music notation software, and contains many practical and valuable tips to that end for the modern jazz composer/arranger.
Trade ReviewJazz Composition and Arranging in the Digital Age is a must have for any musician who plans to be a jazz musician. As composition and arranging are integral parts of developing a sound and style as a jazz artist, this book covers the basic considerations that will provide the skills to allow this to happen. Richard and Mike have left no stone unturned in laying out the fundamentals of composition and orchestration. This is a great book compiled by two fantastic musicians. I've already learned several things on the first read-through, and am looking forward to going back for more. * Bob Mintzer *
Richard Sussman and Michael Abene have created an all encompassing look into the techniques and methods for realizing a musical arrangement in the 21st century. However, what really sets this book apart is the great care the authors take to emphasize that the only true guide for any musician is one's inner ear and creative instincts, thus constantly encouraging the reader to assume ultimate responsibility and ownership of the creative process. * Gil Goldstein *
Unique and cutting edge. Just when it seemed the subject had no new approaches to uncover come Sussman and Abene. Grounded with solid basics and served up in the language of today's computer-enhanced music world. An extraordinary, must-have reference for all arrangers from the beginner to the seasoned pro. * Gary Anderson, Arranger / Orchestrator for TV & Film *
This is one of the most comprehensive books ever written on the subject and the detailed helpful hints on using Finale or Sibelius make it THE book to use in this new century. This textbook is invaluable for college teachers and their students. * Richard DeRosa, Professor of Jazz Composition and Arranging, University of North Texas *
A comprehensive book--both musically and technologically--for the 21st-century jazz composer-arranger, written by two masters of the art. * Bill Kirchner, jazz musician/producer/historian/educator, and editor of The Oxford Companion To Jazz *
Table of ContentsContents ; Preface ; -What This Book Covers ; -How to Use This Book and Companion Website ; Acknowledgements ; Section I - Overview and Basic Information ; Chapter 1 - Introduction ; Chapter 2 - A Brief Overview of MIDI and Music Software ; Chapter 3 - Basic Information ; Chapter 4 - Fundamental Musical Considerations ; Chapter 5 - Introduction to Music Notation Software ; Section II - Arranging For Small Jazz Ensemble ; Chapter 6 - Overview of Small Ensemble Writing/Rhythm and Rhythmic Notation ; Chapter 7 -Melody & Melodic Development (3-4 Horns) ; Chapter 8 - Basic Harmonic Concepts (3-4 Horns) ; Chapter 9 - Reharmonization of Approach Tones (3-4 Horns) ; Chapter 10 - Melodic Reharmonization and Counterpoint (3-4 Horns) ; Chapter 11 - Form and Planning the Arrangement/Instrumentation ; Chapter 12 - Dynamics & Articulations ; Chapter 13 - The Rhythm Section ; Chapter 14 - Completing the 3-4 Horn Arrangement ; Chapter 15 - Notation Software: Generating Parts, Page Layout, & Printing ; Chapter 16 - Arranging For 5-6 Horns - Harmony and Chord Voicings ; Chapter 17 - Form and Planning the Arrangement (5-6 Horns) ; Chapter 18 - The Soli and Shout Chorus ; Chapter 19 - Completing the 5-6 Horn Arrangement ; Section III - Arranging For Large Jazz Ensemble ; Chapter 20 - Overview of Large Ensemble Considerations ; Chapter 21 - Unison & Octave Writing/Monophonic Texture ; Chapter 22 - Concerted Writing For Brass ; Chapter 23 - Concerted Writing For Saxes ; Chapter 24 - Big Band Instrumental Subdivisions ; Chapter 25 - Form and Planning the Arrangement ; Chapter 26 - Modern Harmonic Concepts & Voicing Techniques ; Chapter 27 - More on Modern Harmony, Melodic Reharmonization, & Counterpoint ; Chapter 28 - Woodwind and Brass Doubles and Mutes ; Chapter 29 - Line Writing and Polyphony ; Chapter 30 - The Soli Section (Big Band) ; Chapter 31 - The Shout Chorus (Big Band) ; Chapter 32 - Arranging For Vocalists and Instrumental Soloists ; Chapter 33 - Completing The Big Band Arrangement ; Chapter 34 - Review of Music Notation Software Techniques ; Appendices (On the Companion Website) ; A. Summary of Basic Arranging and Voicing Principles ; B. List of Recommended Scores and Recordings for Study ; C. Bibliography ; Index