Contemporary Jazz Duets 1-2

This Duet Book is designed to accompany volumes one and two of the Contemporary Jazz Studies series, however, as is the case with all of my Contemporary Jazz books, each one may be used individually. Each duet is based on the same chord progression as its corresponding study (ex: “F Blues” study is first in volume one). A great deal of care has been taken to make both the top and bottom parts interesting and of equal importance. For this reason I would suggest playing each duet at least twice so that each player has the opportunity to play both parts.

It is possible to use the treble and bass clef books simultaneously. In this case use the treble for Bb instruments (trumpet, clarinet, bass clarinet, soprano and tenor saxophones, flugelhom baritone hom, valve trombone) and the bass clef book for bass clef instruments (trombone, baritone horn, tuba, string bass, cello, piano, synthesizer). The bass clef book may also be used for E Flat instruments (alto and baritone saxophones). If this is done, special attention must be made to change accidentals where necessary.

All the duets should be practiced slowly at first and worked up to tempo. No tempo markings have been made. Tempo depends on the abilities of the players. All the duets sound good at several tempi.