Jazz for Dummies Review

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Jazz for Dummies ReviewAs refreshing as the "Dummies" series can be, its limitations often become readily apparent when its reductive approach is applied to the arts and humanities. I purchased this text planning to give it to a friend who does not share let alone understand my passion for jazz. Now I wish I'd exercised more judicious consumer restraint. This is a book for those who are curious about some of the many "names" of jazz as well as a brush-up on historical periods and musical styles. But it's of little help in explaining how to listen to this difficult, challenging music, or even what to listen to.
With respect to the latter criticism, one or two examples should serve. Duke Ellington, arguably the greatest American composer and all-around American musician, is represented by a couple of off-beat recordings in which he agreed to perform with Charles Mingus and John Coltrane. And the most beloved, revered, inarguably influential recording of the last 50 years--Miles Davis' "Kind of Blue"--is not even included among the authors' list of essential recordings.
From years of experience, I've learned that it's insufficient to overwhelm jazz neophytes with hundreds of names of musicians. Nor does it help younger listeners to learn that a bebop tune is based on Gershwin's "I Got Rhythm." Even playing a Charlie Parker solo for most listeners simply makes no impression. Great thoughtfulness, selectivity, and ingenuity are required to communicate the essence of this profound, beautiful American art form.
For those who want all the names, check out Leonard Feather's "Encyclopedia of Jazz." For those who want a clearer perspective on the 5-6 musicians who count most as well as better understanding of musical form, improvisation, and stylistic distinctions, try Mark Gridley's "Jazz Styles" (or catch a lecture by Wynton Marsalis). This "Dummies" edition I would regard as an occasionally convenient reference tool, but I can't think of anyone I'd give it to.Jazz for Dummies Overview

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