Alfred Jazz Easy Play-Along Series, Vol. 2: Easy Standards: Rhythm Section (Piano, Bass, & Drumset) Book & Online Audio

Swinging, conversational, and grounded in authentic jazz vocabulary. These nine standards carry the weight of jazz history while remaining melodically accessible and rhythmically energizing.

Jazz rhythm section players at the early intermediate level who need guided comping and improvisation practice with real jazz standards. Pianists, bassists, and drummers can work through the book together as a trio or use it individually with the accompaniment tracks to develop their chops.

• Study the demo track first to internalize the melody, harmonic movement, and rhythmic feel before attempting your own comping or solo ideas.
• Use the written sample solos as a reference for phrasing and note choice, but don't memorize them; they show possibilities, not requirements.
• Balance listening to the full trio on the demo track with isolating your part on the play-along to build confidence in both ensemble listening and individual execution.
• Work through the improvisation tips provided for each tune before laying down your own solo; they target the specific harmonic or rhythmic challenges of that standard.

Use this collection in jazz ensemble rehearsals to strengthen the rhythm section's ability to comp and solo together, or assign individual standards as solo practice material for your piano, bass, and drum students throughout the year. The small group arrangements also work well for jazz combos performing at student recitals or informal performances.

• Reading and performing jazz chord comping with idiomatic reharmonization
• Walking bass lines and rhythmic independence in the ensemble
• Swing ride cymbal patterns and supporting drum grooves
• Blues harmony and bebop melody improvisation
• Listening to and balancing three-part rhythm section texture
• Building repertoire in essential jazz standards (After You've Gone, Lester Leaps In, Mr. PC, and others)