What instrument is this book written for?

This specific edition is arranged exclusively for the alto saxophone, as it mirrors the primary instrument played by Charlie Parker.

Does the book include audio tracks?

Yes, it includes high-quality backing tracks that allow the player to act as the featured saxophonist in a studio setting.

What specific Charlie Parker songs are included?

The collection includes jazz standards such as 'Ornithology' and 'Billie’s Bounce', which are core pieces of Parker's discography.

Are there tracks for practice at slower speeds?

Yes, the product includes slowed-down versions of the performance tracks to help musicians learn difficult passages before attempting them at full speed.

Does it provide help with improvising solos?

The book includes a breakdown of each solo and provides performance tips to guide the player through the nuances of jazz improvisation.

Is there biographical information about Charlie Parker included?

Yes, the publication contains biographical notes to help the musician develop a deeper understanding of Parker’s history and influence.

What is the typical price for this publication?

The typical retail price for this Faber publication is approximately £26.00 in the United Kingdom.

Is this suitable for a complete beginner?

While it provides guidance, the complex nature of Charlie Parker's bebop style usually makes this better suited for intermediate to advanced players.

Who is the publisher of 'In Session With Charlie Parker'?

The book is published by Faber Music as part of their 'In Session' series of educational music books.

Can this be used for tenor saxophone?

This particular version is arranged specifically for alto saxophone; tenor players would require a different edition transposed for B-flat instruments.

What is the primary goal of this product?

The goal is to provide an immersive experience that allows players to jam along with professional tracks and learn to play like a professional jazz musician.

Does the book cover modern jazz styles?

No, it focuses specifically on the mid-20th-century bebop style and the classic recordings of Charlie Parker.

Gear article

Faber In Session with Charlie Parker (Alto Saxophone)

Faber In Session with Charlie Parker is a specialised instructional book and backing track collection designed for alto saxophone players. It allows musicians to study the techniques of the legendary jazz pioneer and play along to professional recordings of his most iconic compositions.

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Overview

The 'In Session with Charlie Parker' package from Faber Music is an educational resource tailored specifically for the alto saxophone. It serves as both a repertoire book and an immersive practice tool, aiming to transport the player into a mid-20th-century recording studio environment. The publication focuses on the bebop style pioneered by Parker, providing the scores and accompaniment for seminal tracks.

Educational Features

The product distinguishes itself from standard sheet music through its pedagogical structure. Key features include:

Solo Breakdowns: Technical analysis and guidance for performing Parker's complex improvisations.
Performance Tips: Specific advice on articulation and phrasing to capture the authentic jazz feel.
Variable Speed Tracks: Includes slowed-down versions of the performances to facilitate practice and gradual mastery of fast passages.
Biographical Context: Detailed notes on Charlie Parker's life and his influence on the jazz genre.

Repertoire

The collection features some of the most important compositions in the jazz canon. Notable inclusions are 'Ornithology' and 'Billie’s Bounce', both of which are essential study pieces for any aspiring jazz saxophonist. The arrangements are strictly for the alto saxophone, matching the instrument Parker famously played.

Character and Suitability

The sound and character of the product are rooted in the authentic bebop era. It is suited for intermediate to advanced saxophonists who wish to develop their improvisational skills and timing. By providing full performance tracks alongside backing-only versions, it allows the user to transition from a student role to that of a featured soloist.

Related Accessories

To achieve the tone required for these pieces, players often pair this book with high-quality equipment. For alto players, D'Addario Organic Select Jazz Filed reeds are a common choice. While this book focuses on alto, similar jazz study materials are often used by players of tenor or baritone saxophones, utilising mouthpieces like the JodyJazz Super Jet or Yamaha 5C, and ligatures such as the Rovner 3RL or Vandoren Cuir.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What instrument is this book written for?: This specific edition is arranged exclusively for the alto saxophone, as it mirrors the primary instrument played by Charlie Parker.
Does the book include audio tracks?: Yes, it includes high-quality backing tracks that allow the player to act as the featured saxophonist in a studio setting.
What specific Charlie Parker songs are included?: The collection includes jazz standards such as 'Ornithology' and 'Billie’s Bounce', which are core pieces of Parker's discography.
Are there tracks for practice at slower speeds?: Yes, the product includes slowed-down versions of the performance tracks to help musicians learn difficult passages before attempting them at full speed.
Does it provide help with improvising solos?: The book includes a breakdown of each solo and provides performance tips to guide the player through the nuances of jazz improvisation.
Is there biographical information about Charlie Parker included?: Yes, the publication contains biographical notes to help the musician develop a deeper understanding of Parker’s history and influence.
What is the typical price for this publication?: The typical retail price for this Faber publication is approximately £26.00 in the United Kingdom.
Is this suitable for a complete beginner?: While it provides guidance, the complex nature of Charlie Parker's bebop style usually makes this better suited for intermediate to advanced players.
Who is the publisher of 'In Session With Charlie Parker'?: The book is published by Faber Music as part of their 'In Session' series of educational music books.
Can this be used for tenor saxophone?: This particular version is arranged specifically for alto saxophone; tenor players would require a different edition transposed for B-flat instruments.
What is the primary goal of this product?: The goal is to provide an immersive experience that allows players to jam along with professional tracks and learn to play like a professional jazz musician.
Does the book cover modern jazz styles?: No, it focuses specifically on the mid-20th-century bebop style and the classic recordings of Charlie Parker.