Scott Yanow's Complete Master Jazz Piano series stands as a monumental achievement in jazz education. This comprehensive collection of instructional books delves into the rich history and diverse styles of jazz piano, offering aspiring pianists a detailed and engaging path to mastery. But what exactly makes this series so special, and what can you expect from each volume? Let's explore.
What is the Scott Yanow Complete Master Jazz Piano Series?
The Complete Master Jazz Piano series isn't a single book, but a collection of meticulously crafted volumes, each focusing on a specific aspect of jazz piano playing. Yanow, a renowned jazz writer and critic, leverages his encyclopedic knowledge of the genre to provide students with a historically informed and technically sound approach to learning. This isn't just about learning chords and scales; it's about understanding the context, the evolution, and the artistry of jazz piano.
What Makes This Series Different?
Unlike many instructional materials that focus solely on technical exercises, Yanow's series seamlessly integrates historical context, stylistic nuances, and biographical information of influential jazz pianists. This holistic approach makes learning engaging and meaningful, fostering a deeper appreciation for the music beyond mere technical proficiency. The series emphasizes understanding the musical language of jazz, encouraging stylistic exploration and personal interpretation.
What Styles of Jazz Piano Does it Cover?
The series doesn't confine itself to a single style. It explores the vast landscape of jazz piano, encompassing various eras and subgenres. Expect to encounter:
- Early Jazz Styles: Learn the foundational techniques and approaches of the pioneers.
- Swing Era: Master the rhythmic complexities and sophisticated harmonies of this golden age.
- Bebop: Dive into the intricate improvisational techniques and harmonic innovations of Charlie Parker and others.
- Hard Bop & Modal Jazz: Explore the soulful sounds and modal approaches of players like Horace Silver and Bill Evans.
- Post-Bop & Beyond: Understand the evolution of jazz piano into more contemporary styles.
Each volume within the series dives deeper into these styles, providing a rich tapestry of musical knowledge.
What are the Key Features of the Series?
- Detailed Transcription: The series offers meticulous transcriptions of solos and compositions by legendary jazz pianists, allowing for in-depth study and analysis.
- Historical Context: Yanow provides valuable historical context, situating the music within its broader cultural and musical landscape.
- Stylistic Analysis: The books analyze the stylistic approaches and techniques of influential pianists, offering insights into their playing and creative processes.
- Progressive Approach: The series progresses methodically, building upon foundational techniques to gradually introduce more complex concepts.
- Comprehensive Exercises: Numerous exercises are provided to reinforce understanding and build practical skills.
How Many Books are in the Series? (PAA Question 1)
The exact number of books in the Complete Master Jazz Piano series might vary depending on how you classify the volumes. It's not a rigidly defined set number, but it comprises several individual books focusing on different styles and techniques. It is best to check the publisher's catalog for the most up-to-date information on available volumes.
Is this Series Suitable for Beginners? (PAA Question 2)
While the series covers a wide range of styles and techniques, it's not necessarily designed for absolute beginners. Some basic music theory knowledge and piano playing experience are recommended to fully appreciate and utilize the information presented. However, dedicated beginners with a strong foundation could certainly benefit from specific volumes.
Are there any accompanying audio resources? (PAA Question 3)
While the series doesn't inherently come with accompanying audio, many online resources provide recordings of the pianists and musical examples discussed in the books. These supplemental resources greatly enhance the learning experience.
Conclusion
Scott Yanow's Complete Master Jazz Piano series is an invaluable resource for serious jazz pianists of all levels. It is a comprehensive and historically rich approach to learning jazz piano that goes beyond mere technical instruction to cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation for this vibrant musical genre. The series is a testament to Yanow's deep knowledge and passion for jazz, offering a pathway to musical mastery that is both challenging and rewarding.
