The Jazz Theory Book – Mark Levine

This is a review of the most complete guide to jazz theory you will find. The Jazz Theory Book by Mark Levine is the most important jazz theory book ever published and it still stands up today as the definitive guide to jazz theory. Mark Levine leaves no stone unturned and covers the II-V-I progression, scale theory, rhythm changes, the blues and almost every other topic you can think of. This is essential reading for all jazz instrumentalists. I have had this book in my collection for several years but I still refer to it from time to time. As well as an accessible writing style, Mark also includes hundreds of relevant musical examples that demonstrate the most important concepts in the book.

Contents:

Part One – Theory of Chords and Scales

Basic Theory, Major Scale and the II-V-I Progression; Chord/Scale Theory (Major, Melodic Minor, Diminished and Whole-Tone Scale Harmony); How to Practice Scales; Slash Chords

Part Two – Improvisation – Playing the Changes

From Scales to Music; The Bebop Scales; Playing ‘Outside’; Pentatonic Scales; The Blues; Rhythm Changes; Practice, Practice, Practice

Part Three – Reharmonization

Basic Reharmonization; Advanced Reharmonization; Coltrane Changes; Three Reharmonizations (Spring is Here x 2, Body and Soul)

Part Four – The Tunes

Song Form and Composition; Reading a Lead Sheet; Memorizing a Tune; Heads; Repertoire

Part Five – The Rest of It

Salsa and Latin Jazz; Loose Ends; Listen; Index

If you are looking for a complete guide to jazz theory then this book is essential reading. Although it has been around for quite a few years now, there is nothing else on the market that comes close to this book. The book costs around £35 from Amazon.co.uk which is a bargain considering this book will last for years. In summary, if you are serious about playing jazz then you need this book.