Improvising Blues Piano: The Basic Principles of Blues Piano Explained for the Intermediate-Level Pianist in an Easy-to-Grasp Fashion

RICHARDS, Tim

ISBN 10: 0946535973 / ISBN 13: 9780946535972

Published by Schott, London, 1997

Quarto. 9.25 x 12 in. 264 pp. Fully illustrated with black & white musical notations and occasional reproductions of photographs. Includes over 60 pieces, originally composed by the author and also with new arrangements of well-known standards. Fine in original pictorial wrappers, no CD in rear pocket. Seller Inventory # 2038

Synopsis:

The forerunner to the awarded-winning Exploring Jazz Piano books, Improvising Blues Piano examines the harmonic, rhythmic and melodic aspects of the blues, assuming a basic competence of around grade 3.

All styles are covered from the 1920s to the present, from the early boogie pioneers via swing, gospel, jump-jive, New Orleans, Chicago and Kansas City schools, to the more sophisticated jazz and funky blues of the current scene.

Over 60 pieces, including many original compositions by the author, together with new arrangements of well-known standarts such as 'Ain't No Sunshine', 'Blueberry Hill', 'Blue Monk', 'Got My Mojo workin', 'Honky Tonk Train Blues', 'How Long Blues', 'Just a Closer Walk with Thee', 'Pine Top's Boogie Woogie', 'St Louis Blues' etc.

* Authentic left-hand patterns and bass lines
* Professional chord voicings, blues scales, licks and riffs
* Co-ordination exercises for both hands
* Suggested listening

Each chapter is graded within itself, providing some challenging pieces towards the end. Improvising is encouraged at all stages, with assignments giving ideas and guidance.

The accompanying CD contains all the pieces, including some play-along tracks, performed by Tim Richards.

"A very useful and comprehensive survey of different blues styles. Tim's clear demonstrations on the accompanying CD make this the essential book for all aspiring blues pianists" (Jools Holland)

"This book leaves any possible competition standing at the post." (Brian Priestley, Jazzwise Magazine)

"I highly recommend the book. It's the best I've seen yet... Helpful features include a grat Cd by the London-based Richards, who is a top-notch performer, recording artist and educator. It's almost like having your own personal instructor." (Blues Review, USA)

"The presentation is immaculate, the method is logical and friendly. This book feels good..." (MOJO)

"A brilliant new publication from Schott. Each chapter extends the player's harmonic knowledge and gives clear instructions how to progress... You learn not just how to play the blues but also its history and major exponents. Tim Richard's enthusiasm for the subject is both infectious and inspiring." (Piano Journal)

"For blues piano, it's about as thorough as any book I've seen." (Jamey Aebersold, USA)

"Beautifully presented, it has clarity, heart and comprehensiveness." (Michael Garrick)

From the Author: More info about the book
Not to be confused with a book of the same title by M Mann, Improvising Blues Piano was written for the intermediate pianist and contains over 60 pieces including well-known standards such as Ain't No Sunshine, Bag's Groove, Blue Monk, Got My Mojo Workin', Honky Tonk Train Blues, How Long Blues, Pine Top's Boogie Woogie, St Louis Blues, etc.. along with pieces by the author, tips, assignments, licks, improvisation suggestions, etc...

All the pieces are included on the accompanying CD which also features some "play-along" tracks.

All styles of blues are covered from Boogie Woogie, Chicago and New Orleans, to Swing, Funk, Gospel and Jazz.

Each chapter focuses on a particular type of chord, beginning with major triads, and ending with 9th, 13th, and diminished chords, presented in a logical and easy to follow to fashion.

The book also contains 20 full page photos of blues pianists from Jimmy Yancey to Dr John, and a comprehensive discography.

Reviews have been very positive. Here is a selection:

JOOLS HOLLAND: "The essential book for all blues pianists"

BLUES REVUE (USA): "I highly recommend the book - it's the best I've seen yet"

MOJO: "The presentation is immaculate, the method is logical and friendly, with everything clearly demonstrated on the CD."

BRIAN PRIESTLEY - JAZZWISE MAGAZINE: "This book leaves any possible competition standing at the post."

MICHAEL GARRICK: "Beautifully presented, it has clarity, heart and comprehensiveness."

Bibliographic Details

Title: Improvising Blues Piano: The Basic ...
Publisher: Schott, London
Publication Date: 1997
Binding: Paperback
Edition: First Edition, First Printing.