Introduction! A collection of recommended masterpieces and standard numbers for jazz beginners

MinuanoPat Metheny Group

Pat Metheny Group / Pat Metheny “Minuano (6/8)”

This is the 1992 “Live Under The Sky” concert.

Among the Pat Metheny Group’s great performances, I believe this is the pinnacle.

It feels like Metheny’s music reaches its ultimate form here.

Metheny truly is one of a kind—there may be no one who can climb to these heights.

Pedro Aznar’s cool yet resolute playing also leaves a strong impression.

They Can’t Take That Away from MeSarah Vaughan

They Can’t Take That Away from Me

Composed by George Gershwin with lyrics by Ira Gershwin, this song was performed by Fred Astaire to Ginger Rogers in the 1937 film “Shall We Dance.” Its romantic lyrics express that even if you go away, your memory will never fade from me, and it remains beloved today as a jazz standard.

It is customary to insert instrumental interjections during the theme.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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Angel Eyesjim hall

ANGEL EYES Jim Hall

Recorded in 1975 on “Jim Hall Live!”.

Jim Hall’s guitar isn’t flashy, but it’s characterized by a gentle, warm tone.

His duo album with Pat Metheny was excellent, and he also left a fine performance on Bill Evans’s “Undercurrent.” It’s said that Metheny was a huge fan of Jim Hall.

Whacha See Is Whatcha GetJohn Scofield

John Scofield band – whatcha see is whatcha get

Included on the 2003 album “Up All Night.” It’s a number by the R&B group The Dramatics, performed by John Scofield.

John Sco’s guitar is absolutely swirling with energy—you’d never guess his age.

I think it’s so classy to arrange this soul classic in this way.

The part in the latter half where the horn section comes in is irresistible.

StuffMiles Davis

Miles Davis – Stuff (1/2)

From the 1968 album Miles in the Sky.

It’s the opening track of the album, yet it stays cool from start to finish.

Tony Williams’s drumming is striking, and Miles’s trumpet heightens the sense of unease.

Herbie’s electric piano is razor-sharp, too.

It’s a track where truly cool, stylish players come together.

At LastEtta James

At Last

Known as one of Etta James’s signature songs—she was a blues, soul, R&B, and jazz singer—this piece was originally written for and performed in the 1942 American film Orchestra Wives, which also featured Glenn Miller.

It has since been covered by many artists, and some may remember Beyoncé singing it at President Obama’s inauguration.

The song’s lyrics express the joy of finally finding love.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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Don’t Let Be Me Lonely TonightMichael Brecker

Michael Brecker – Don’t Let Me Be Lonely Tonight (guest James Taylor)

Included on the 2001 album “Nearness of You.” They perform James Taylor’s song with Taylor himself as a guest vocalist.

A stellar lineup features Herbie Hancock, Pat Metheny, and others.

Many people love this piece; it’s been covered not only in the jazz world but also by Eric Clapton.

Brecker likely has a special attachment to this song as well.