Do-do-do (From "Oh, Kay!"): Lead Sheet

This lead sheet collection hands you over 100 Gershwin standards in a single, carefully curated resource. The harmonic language is sophisticated without being opaque, and the melodies reward both straight-ahead reading and interpretive freedom. Guitar players at this level will find themselves moving fluidly between comping and soloing over repertoire that sounds timeless.

Elegant and buoyant, with the unmistakable sophistication of 1920s New York theatrical genius. These melodies sit naturally on the guitar while the harmonies offer enough harmonic color to keep your ears engaged through repeated playing.

Guitar players advancing into jazz standards and popular song interpretation. This collection works for jazz guitarists building their repertoire, lead sheet readers in contemporary ensembles, and serious students preparing for recital or ensemble performance.

• Reference the melody first, then mark your harmonic approach to each section; Gershwin's changes invite interpretation but need a clear foundation.
• Pay attention to the lyrical phrasing even as an instrumentalist; these melodies were written for singers, and respecting the breath and shape of the line translates directly to guitar phrasing.
• Experiment with different harmonic extensions and substitute chords once you've mastered the original progression; the sophistication of Gershwin's writing rewards reharmonization.
• Use the tempo and style markings as guideposts for feel rather than rigid instructions; these songs breathe differently in swing, bossa, or straight jazz contexts.

Feature individual songs in jazz ensemble or combo settings, or use the collection as a go-to source for jazz standards in studio recitals and informal performances. For guitarists in musicals or revues, this book serves as both a learning tool and a performance reference.

• Reading and interpreting lead sheets with jazz harmonic vocabulary
• Recognizing and performing characteristic jazz melodic shapes and phrasing
• Comping and soloing over common jazz chord progressions
• Understanding swing-era song form and arrangement conventions
• Building fluency with songs central to jazz and popular music history