10 Jazz Standards for Vocalists with Combo Accompaniment: A Comprehensive Guide to Essential Repertoire

Jazz standards are the cornerstone of vocal jazz, showcasing the interplay between a vocalist and a small ensemble, typically known as a combo. These tunes have stood the test of time, captivating audiences with their intricate melodies, rich harmonies, and timeless lyrics. For vocalists seeking to master the art of jazz singing, a repertoire of standards is indispensable.

In this comprehensive guide, we embark on a musical journey through 10 essential jazz standards for vocalists with combo accompaniment. Each selection is meticulously chosen to represent the diversity and depth of the genre while providing a solid foundation for vocalists to showcase their artistry.

Singin' with the Jazz Combo (Alto Saxophone): 10 Jazz Standards for Vocalists with Combo Accompaniment

by Ricardo L. Garcia

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9820 KB
Print length	:	24 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

1. "All the Things You Are" (Jerome Kern, Oscar Hammerstein II)

"All the Things You Are" is a timeless ballad that showcases the vocalist's ability to convey both intimacy and soaring emotion. The song's intricate chord changes and lush harmonies provide a rich tapestry for vocal exploration, while the lyrics paint a vivid portrait of unrequited love.

2. "Autumn Leaves" (Joseph Kosma, Johnny Mercer)

"Autumn Leaves" is an evocative jazz standard that captures the bittersweet beauty of the changing seasons. The song's haunting melody and poignant lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing, providing ample opportunities for vocalists to express their emotional depth.

3. "Blue Train" (John Coltrane)

"Blue Train" is a hard-swinging bebop classic that showcases the vocalist's scatting abilities and improvisational prowess. The song's fast tempo and complex harmonies demand technical precision and a deep understanding of the jazz language.

4. "Body and Soul" (Johnny Green, Edward Heyman, Robert Sour)

"Body and Soul" is a seductive jazz ballad that has been interpreted by countless vocalists throughout history. The song's sultry lyrics and sensual harmonies create an atmosphere of intimacy and verlangen, providing vocalists with the opportunity to explore their own vocal sensuality.

5. "Fly Me to the Moon" (Bart Howard)

"Fly Me to the Moon" is a whimsical jazz standard that transports listeners to a world of dreams and possibility. The song's playful melody and optimistic lyrics provide a lighthearted and uplifting experience for both vocalists and audiences alike.

6. "How High the Moon" (Morgan Lewis, Nancy Hamilton)

"How High the Moon" is an up-tempo swing classic that showcases the vocalist's ability to swing and scat. The song's infectious melody and playful lyrics invite vocalists to let loose and have fun while exploring the boundaries of their vocal range.

7. "I Got Rhythm" (George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin)

"I Got Rhythm" is a timeless jazz standard that has been performed by countless vocalists, big bands, and small combos alike. The song's complex harmonies and syncopated rhythms provide a challenging yet rewarding experience for vocalists seeking to master the intricacies of jazz.

8. "Moonlight Serenade" (Glenn Miller, Mitchell Parish)

"Moonlight Serenade" is a romantic jazz ballad that showcases the vocalist's ability to convey tenderness and vulnerability. The song's lush harmonies and evocative lyrics create an atmosphere of intimacy and longing, providing vocalists with the opportunity to explore their own emotional depth.

9. "Summertime" (George Gershwin, Ira Gershwin, DuBose Heyward)

"Summertime" is a haunting jazz standard that captures the essence of the season with its languid melody and evocative lyrics. The song provides vocalists with ample opportunities to explore their vocal range and showcase their ability to convey both the beauty and melancholy of summer.

10. "What a Wonderful World" (George David Weiss, Bob Thiele)

"What a Wonderful World" is a timeless jazz standard that celebrates the beauty and wonder of the world around us. The song's simple yet profound lyrics and uplifting melody provide vocalists with the opportunity to convey a message of hope and optimism, leaving audiences with a sense of warmth and contentment.

These 10 jazz standards for vocalists with combo accompaniment represent a timeless repertoire that provides a solid foundation for vocalists seeking to master the art of jazz singing. Each selection offers unique challenges and opportunities for vocal exploration, showcasing the vocalist's ability to convey emotion, swing, and improvise. By delving into these classics, vocalists can develop their vocal technique, expand their musical knowledge, and connect with audiences on a profound level.

As vocalists continue to interpret and reinterpret these standards, they contribute to the rich tapestry of jazz music. These timeless tunes will continue to inspire and captivate listeners for generations to come, ensuring that the legacy of jazz standards lives on.

Singin' with the Jazz Combo (Alto Saxophone): 10 Jazz Standards for Vocalists with Combo Accompaniment

by Ricardo L. Garcia

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9820 KB
Print length	:	24 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE