Jazz Daniel's - #1 - Summertime
- galdornay
- Sep 10
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 15
Welcome to the first edition of Jazz Daniel's Newsletter! In this newsletter, I'll guide you through learning different jazz standards by presenting the melody, harmony, a straightforward chord melody and concluding with a solo etude.
This entry will delve into the renowned standard "Summertime."
We'll cover the following topics:
A Brief History Of Summertime
"Summertime" was composed by the renowned George Gershwin in 1934 for the opera "Porgy and Bess," and it remains one of the most famous tunes, frequently played in jam sessions worldwide.
It's an excellent piece for practicing simple 2-5-1 progressions in both minor and major keys and should be a standard that every aspiring jazz guitarist knows how to play. Additionally, it's not a fast tune, making it an ideal entry-level piece for beginner to intermediate players.
Some great versions to check out:
Miles Davis - Progy and Bees https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PwigsX95quw
Ella Fitzgerald - Live (1968)
Joe Pass - Catch Me!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rLc--swhbzQ
Chet Baker - Quartet
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b4yfJccwu2g
How To Play The Melody
Here is the basic lead sheet of the melody:
In the video below, I will perform the melody several times. Initially, I'll play it exactly as written. In subsequent renditions, I'll introduce some modifications, incorporating additional rhythm and small melodic motifs.
How To Play The Harmony
Here are the basic chords for Summertime:
In the video below, I'll demonstrate the harmony multiple times using a simple quarter swing feel. Give it a try yourself, and once you're comfortable, experiment by adding some rhythm to your playing.
How To Play A Chord Melody
A chord-melody is a playing style that merges the melody and harmony of a standard. In the video below, I'll present a simple chord melody of "Summertime."
And here is the notation for the chord-melody:
Solo Etude Over Summertime
In this section you will find a small etude I made over the chord changes of Summertime.
Try to learn the etude and take ideas for your own improvisation!
Download Section
Here you can find all the notation and download them as PDF documents if you wish!
I hope this first Issue of "Jazz Daniel's" was interesting and helpful! And if you have any more questions, looking for online guitar classes or just want to chat, Feel free to send me a message on my website!
Comments