recommended by Ben Huntoon, Jazz Specialist

Now, for 50 years, the name Jamey Aebersold has been literally synonymous with the very best in jazz education materials. A world-class performer and a very charismatic teacher/lecturer who has traveled the globe giving seminars and workshops, Jamey’s lifelong mission is to teach people how to play jazz and improvise.

How to Play Jazz and Improvise, Volume 1
This book includes chapters on scales/chords, developing creativity, improv and modes, practical exercises/patterns and licks, Dominant 7th tree of scale choices, nomenclature, chromaticism, scale syllabus, and more. This complete improvisation set, along with Volume 24, MAJOR AND MINOR, can greatly open your ears and improve your playing.

Nothin’ But Blues, Volume 2
The Blues have had the very essence of the jazz sound since the 1920’s. A player who masters the sound and feel of the Blues will play other jazz tunes in a manner that will inspire the listener. The rhythm section on this recording really grooves and makes this set fun to play with. Contains 11 different Blues and is a natural follow-up to Volume 1 or Volume 21. The tempos are not fast. The Blues are presented in various keys and with a variety of moods from slow to rock. Chords and scales are written in the staff for each recorded track.

Charlie Parker All Bird, Volume 6
This set contains the essence of modern music and is considered by most musicians to be some of the most important music of this century. Bebop is the music of the future! Ten Charlie Parker songs that truly represent the Bebop Era. This is truly a bebop rhythm section and they make the songs sing! This is a tremendous way to learn ten songs by the master musician, Charlie Parker. The songs have all become well known jazz standards that are essential for every jazz player to know. There are blues, “Rhythm” changes, alternating latin/swing, fast, and standard 32 bar songs in this outstanding collection. Learn from the master.

Blues in All Keys, Volume 42
Here’s a great way to expand your blues playing in every key! And it’s real fun, too! These are slow tempos and are for all levels of ability. Try playing some of the tougher keys without looking at the music and see just how fast your ear takes over. You’ll find yourself gaining confidence very quickly and that confidence will greatly improve your soloing. Charlie Parker learned the Blues in all 12 keys before he learned anything else. TRANSPOSED FOR ALL INSTRUMENTS. Each key contains a different blues melody and two compatible chord/scale progressions. It’s enjoyable and it’s sure to make you a better blues player. Get started now with this great addition to the series.

Maiden Voyage, Volume 54
Essential jazz standards and important “workout” tracks for the student ready to make the transition from playing scales, chords and exercises to playing popular jazz standards. Excellent reference material that can be used as a resource for beginning improvisation…actual tunes instead of exercises! Features slower tempos and easier changes. Each selection includes its own specific tips and suggestions on how to approach soloing over it. Scales are written out for every chord change. A wide variety of related publications make this the perfect jazz improvisation method for High School and College music directors.

About the Author:
Ben Huntoon is the Jazz Education Consultant at Stanton’s Sheet Music. He received bachelors and masters degrees in music from Capital University and The Ohio State University respectively. As a professional trumpeter, Ben is accomplished in a wide variety of genres and has performed throughout the Midwest on many stages over the past 30 years. He also teaches trumpet, coaches brass ensembles and has served on the jazz faculty at Otterbein University in Westerville, Ohio.