The Essence of the Blues is a new method for beginners and intermediate players who wish to learn the blues. Written by the best-selling author of Jazz Conception and award-winning saxophonist (2017 Downbeat Critic’s Poll) Jim Snidero, this book is the perfect addition to your music lesson. Each book contains 10 solo studies which have been transposed and arranged for the principal jazz instrument. The recordings on the professionally produced accompanying CDs were performed by top-notch soloists and New York’s best swinging rhythm section: Jim Snidero (alto saxophone), Eric Alexander (tenor saxophone), Jeremy Pelt (trumpet), Steve Davis (trombone), Jamie Baum (flute), Mike LeDonne, Peter Washington, Joe Farnsworth (rhythm section). The Essence Of The Blues is suitable for lessons with young pupils, but also for self-study or as performance pieces for jazz ensembles. Each piece comes with appropriate scale exercises, tips for studying and practicing, suggestions for own improvisations as well as recommended listening.

Introduction - Style and Performance - Tuning Concert A - Tuning Concert Bb - Duke's Jam - Papa Lou - King BB - Freeloader - Minor Trane - Mister T - Bags - Newkness - Blue Funk - Bird in Flight - Basic Blues Theory - Vocabulary Studies - Suggested Listening - Musicians' Bios