Jazz

Take the Lead is a terrific series of books for all instrumentalists, young and old. Eight jazz classics are arranged for each instrument as stand-alone solos, or all the instruments can play together. Each song includes chord symbols in concert pitch for use by piano or guitar, or the player can use the full backing track from the CD as accompaniment. The CD also includes tuning notes and full version demonstration tracks of each song to help each musician learn the song. It's a great all-around package at a great price, and perfect for the band student who is looking for more music to play, especially as an introduction to jazz. Titles: Birdland * Desafinado * Donat Get Around Much Anymore * Fascinating Rhythm * Misty * My Funny Valentine * One OaClock Jump and more.

Walter Dean Myers (1937 - 2014) was born in Martinsburg, West Virginia. He was one of the premier authors of books for children, and received numerous awards including the Michael L. Printz award and the Coretta Scott King Award.

Christopher Myers is a writer and fine artist, but he is best known for his award-winning picture books, such as the Caldecott and Coretta Scott King honor book Harlem, written by his father, and his own Black Cat, which also received a Coretta Scott King Honor Award. He lives and works in New York City.