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The Jazz Ballad
JERRY COKER
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The jazz ballad provides our greatest opportunity
for lyrical expression and represents the surest
way to the musical heart. Traditionally, it has been
the testing ground for a performer�s worth, yet it is
largely missing in our present musical culture and
is seldom addressed in learning situations. Jerry
Coker is recognized for his ability to create
inspired ballad performances, and his many
students of the past and present know that he also
has the ability to share his unique understanding
of the jazz ballad with others. "The Jazz Ballad -
Experience Ultimate Expression" is a
comprehensive study, guiding the reader, step by
step, through the necessary topics and activities
that lead to heightened understanding and
enhanced performance. Topics include criteria for
tune selection, modification possibilities, rhythm
section concepts for ballad playing, options for
introductions and endings, appropriate ways to
approach the melody and subsequent
improvisation, and with consideration of spiritual
and attitudinal preparation. The accompanying CD
provides aural clarifications of the ideas presented
in the text, as well as a play-along track that
features a splendid rhythm section.
"Jerry Coker has done it again!" So James Moody
begins his foreword for Jerry�s soon to be
published book and CD, The Jazz Ballad ...
Experience Ultimate Expression. Moody points out
that ballad playing is "exposed" soloing. David
Liebman, in his foreword for the book writes,
"What it comes down to is that the ballad is what
people will remember ... Jerry Coker gets it all right
here as he always has throughout his illustrious
writing career." With characteristic generosity of
nature, Jerry conveys his reverence for the heartfelt
beauty of a masterfully and sweetly rendered
ballad; a neglected art in peril of extinction. That it
is a challenge musically is examined, with specific
recommendations for success. That it is spiritually
nourishing is demonstrated in the accompanying
CD, which also demonstrates the wrong approach
with its message-killing effect. For all levels, this
study acts as incentive to rise to new heights of
artistry.
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