Ella’s Perfect Chorus (& Verse) Summer Assignment 1

“WITH A SONG IN MY HEART”

~ ROGERS AND HART

The three most important things in jazz are, in order of importance:

1. Melody
2. Melody
3. Melody

This list is subject to change, but for today and the purposes of this blog, it’s iron clad.  Yes, we know there’s that thing about what in means (not a thing) if it doesn’t possess that certain, elusive yet undeniable, element of rhythmic buoyancy and syncopation. So to that point, yes, a good melody does swing, regardless of style or genre.  Now is also good time to remember the old adage that “all lists are bullshit except your own.”

Let’s start today with 2:46 of absolute beauty and effortless lyricism, perfectly crafted and perfectly rendered.

YOUR MISSION – SHOULD YOU CHOOSE TO DIG IT

• Grab your horn, listen to this once with your horn in your hands.
• Play along immediately, don’t wait until you think you know the tune.
• Lose your sound in Ella’s voice – focus on her, not you (this is good practice for when you are in love)
• DO NOT arrive on any note before she does.
• What key(s) are you in and where/how do you get there?

Anything more you do on this, for today at least, is for bonus points.  Just spend a little time playing along with one of the greatest there ever was.  Learning cool stuff needn’t be a chore.

Extra Credit Theory Weenie Bonus Question:

What’s going on harmonically on the words:

“I GREET YOU”

Clue – it’s some hip %$#%$!!