The Great American Songbook represents a rich tapestry of musical history, encapsulating the essence of American jazz and its profound influence on the global music landscape. This anthology features a carefully curated collection of 100 timeless pieces, each arranged for piano and voice, complete with guitar chords. It serves a resource for musicians and a tribute to the artistry and creativity that have defined American songwriting.
This collection showcases the profound impact of jazz on compositions, highlighting the genre’s ability to transcend time and resonate with audiences across generations. The songs included in this anthology are the embodiment of emotions, stories, and cultural moments that have shaped American society.
Among the 100 pieces featured in this collection, one can find an impressive array of styles and themes. From the soulful melodies of “Summertime” to the upbeat rhythms of “Fascinating Rhythm,” each song offers a unique glimpse into the world of jazz. Renowned composers and lyricists such as George Gershwin, Cole Porter, and Duke Ellington are well-represented, alongside lesser-known gems that enrich the overall experience.
Some of the most recognizable songs in American music history are included in this collection. Classics like “Fly Me to the Moon (In Other Words)” and “Mack the Knife” have become staples in jazz repertoires, celebrated for their intricate melodies and memorable lyrics. These pieces showcase the technical prowess required to perform them and invite musicians to interpret them in their own unique styles.
While many songs in The Great American Songbook are well-known, this collection also introduces listeners to lesser-known works that deserve recognition. Tracks like “Bluesette” and “Django” provide a refreshing contrast to more mainstream selections.
The arrangements are designed to be straightforward, making them suitable for musicians at various skill levels. Each arrangement includes introductions and verses that often go unprinted in traditional fake books, providing a more comprehensive understanding of each song.
The Importance of jazz in American Culture
Jazz is a cultural phenomenon that has influenced countless artists across various disciplines. The Great American Songbook captures this essence by featuring pieces that reflect the diverse experiences of American life. From the blues-infused melodies that speak to hardship and resilience to the lively swing tunes that evoke celebration and joy, jazz encapsulates the full spectrum of human emotion.
The influence of jazz icons
Many legendary figures have left an indelible mark on the Great American Songbook. Artists like Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Louis Armstrong have interpreted these songs in ways that continue to inspire new generations of musicians. Their unique vocal styles and improvisational techniques have shaped how we understand and appreciate jazz today.
Songs:
- All Alone
- All Blues
- All Or Nothing At All
- Almost Like Being In Love
- Alone Together
- Along Came Betty
- And The Angels Sing
- Angel Eyes
- As Time Goes By
- Bernie’s Tune
- Between The Devil And The Deep Blue Sea
- Billie’s Bounce (Bill’s Bounce)
- Blue Moon
- Bluesette
- But Not For Me
- Can’t We Be Friends
- Cherokee (Indian Love Song)
- Comes Love
- Crazy Rhythm
- Cute
- Dancing In The Dark
- Darn That Dream
- Days Of Wine And Roses
- Django
- Embraceable You
- Emily
- Estate
- Ev’ry Time We Say Goodbye
- Fascinating Rhythm
- Fly Me To The Moon (In Other Words)
- A Foggy Day (In London Town)
- Gee Baby, Ain’t I Good To You
- Giant Steps
- Girl Talk
- How About You?
- How Deep Is The Ocean (How High Is The Sky)
- How Long Has This Been Going On?
- I Got Rhythm
- I’ll Remember April
- If I Had You
- In Your Own Sweet Way
- It Had To Be You
- Jumpin’ At The Woodside
- Just Friends
- Just One Of Those Things
- Just Squeeze Me (But Don’t Tease Me)
- A Kiss To Build A Dream On
- The Lamp Is Low
- Laura
- Li’l Darlin’
- Love For Sale
- Love Is Here To Stay
- Love Walked In
- Love You Madly
- Lucky To Be Me
- Lullaby In Rhythm
- Lullaby Of The Leaves
- Mack The Knife
- The Man I Love
- Midnight Sun
- The More I See You
- My One And Only Love
- Nice Work If You Can Get It
- Night And Day
- A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square
- Nuages
- Oh, Lady Be Good!
- Oleo
- On Green Dolphin Street
- One O’Clock Jump
- Over The Rainbow
- Prelude To A Kiss
- Reunion Blues
- ‘Round Midnight
- ‘S Wonderful
- St. Thomas
- The Shadow Of Your Smile
- Shiny Stockings
- Someone To Watch Over Me
- Spring Can Really Hang You Up The Most
- Spring Is Here
- Squeeze Me
- Star Eyes
- Stars Fell On Alabama
- Street Of Dreams
- Summertime
- Sweet Georgia Brown
- Sweet Lorraine
- Taking A Chance On Love
- That’s All
- (There Is) No Greater Love
- They Can’t Take That Away From Me
- Waltz For Debby
- Watch What Happens
- Wave
- Wee (Allen’s Alley)
- What Is This Thing Called Love?
- When Your Lover Has Gone
- Whisper Not
- You Must Believe In Spring
Free download The Great American Songbook – Jazz
Free download for educational purposes only. For commercial use buy The Great American Songbook – Jazz on Amazon
The post The Great American Songbook – Jazz appeared first on Free Sheet Music. Download printable sheet music for Piano, Voice, Violin, Guitar.