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[Beginner] Start with this song! A collection of practice tunes for jazz beginners
Among those who have just started an instrument, many are practicing guitar, piano, saxophone, or trumpet with a single-minded desire to play jazz.
That said, jazz can seem intimidating and difficult…
For anyone feeling that way, this article rounds up beginner-friendly jazz practice tunes.
They’re all standard numbers that nearly everyone has heard at least once, and with simple arrangements they can sound convincingly jazzy while being perfect for learning jazz style.
Future jazz players, take note!
[For Beginners] Start with this song! A collection of practice pieces for jazz beginners (1–10)
Autumn leavesJoseph Kosma
Composed in France by Hungarian-born Joseph Kosma, Autumn Leaves—known in Japan as Kareha—is a standard number widely loved by jazz beginners and veterans alike.
Written in 1945 with French lyrics by Jacques Prévert, the song poignantly captures the themes of love and the changing seasons.
For jazz newcomers in particular, its melody is easy to play and ideal for learning fundamental jazz phrases and expression.
Cherished by jazz greats such as Bill Evans and Cannonball Adderley, this piece is a perfect gateway for beginners to experience the allure of jazz and refine their musical sensibilities.
As the weather turns cold, why not step into the deep world of jazz while playing this heartwarming melody?
Blue MonkThelonious Monk
The jazz master Thelonious Monk’s 1954 composition “Blue Monk” has secured its place as a standard in the jazz world.
Its appeal lies in Monk’s distinctive rhythmic, chromatic melody; while it adopts the 12-bar blues form, it skillfully fuses jazz tradition and innovation through its unique harmony and rhythm.
In 1973, Abbey Lincoln added lyrics, giving “Blue Monk” an even deeper dimension.
The lyrics reflect themes of loneliness, introspection, and inner conflict, conveying a message about the blues sensibility in jazz and the act of overcoming struggle.
For beginners, “Blue Monk” is an excellent introduction to jazz.
Technically accessible, it’s ideal for learning the fundamental forms and expressive richness of jazz, and it offers a valuable opportunity to experience Monk’s musical vision.
Fly Me to the MoonBart Howard
As a jazz standard, Fly Me To The Moon has long been loved by many musicians.
Its composer, Bart Howard, released it in 1954 under the title In Other Words, and it was later popularized by Frank Sinatra.
It was also used as the ending theme for Neon Genesis Evangelion, making it familiar to a wide audience.
With its simple chord progression and the stylish sound of seventh chords, this piece is easy for beginners to play and offers a great opportunity to glimpse the depth of jazz.
If you want to try playing a stylish jazz number, this is the perfect song to start with.
The Girl From IpanemaAstrud Gilberto
Astrud Gilberto is a singer from Brazil who became world-famous for The Girl from Ipanema, a song almost everyone has heard at least once.
Released in 1964, the track won a Grammy and has been covered by many artists.
Blending a refreshing bossa nova rhythm with elements of jazz, the song depicts a young, beautiful woman out for a walk, while the lyrics convey the bittersweet feeling of being drawn to her yet unable to speak to her.
As a jazz standard, it features a melody and rhythm that are accessible even to beginners.
The chords aren’t complex, making it approachable for those just starting out on guitar or piano.
Through this song, why not experience the profound appeal of jazz and broaden your musical horizons?
Cold Duck TimeEddie Harris
When it comes to funky, dance-inducing instrumental numbers, this composition by Eddie Harris is the standout.
A powerful, rock-like riff intertwines with a soulful saxophone, making your heart leap just by listening.
It’s included on the classic album “Swiss Movement,” released in October 1969, which captures the electrifying live performance in Switzerland as it happened.
It’s also known for being featured in the TV series Bates Motel.
With its simple structure and easy-to-remember chord progression, it’s a perfect pick for those looking to dive into jazz improvisation.
Start by listening repeatedly to the distinctive bass-line riff to internalize the groove, then get a feel for laying your own phrases freely on top—that’s the fastest path to improvement!
MistyErroll Garner
Inspired by a rainbow and mist seen from an airplane window, Erroll Garner is said to have improvised the masterpiece “Misty.” Its romantic, slightly wistful melody ranks among the most popular jazz standards and is widely cherished as a beautiful ballad.
First included on the 1954 album “Contrasts,” it continued to captivate audiences across generations, notably featuring memorably in the 1971 film “Play Misty for Me.” With its relaxed tempo, it’s easy for the fingers to follow, allowing players to savor the resonance of the chords—one of the piece’s great attractions.
Start by carefully aligning the simple melody with the left-hand accompaniment rhythm, and try to evoke a dreamlike, mist-shrouded atmosphere.
Take FiveDave Brubeck
“Take Five,” included on the groundbreaking 1959 album Time Out by the Dave Brubeck Quartet led by Dave Brubeck, is an iconic piece in the history of jazz.
Composed by Paul Desmond, the tune is built on a unique 5/4 time signature.
Uncommon at the time, this meter is said to have opened new horizons for jazz, and its exhilarating melody and rhythm continue to be loved by many.
The song has been covered by numerous artists around the world, including in Japan, and has been used across a wide range of media, from television and commercials to films.
For jazz beginners, “Take Five” offers a superb entry point into the genre through its simple yet profound appeal.
It’s an ideal track for anyone who wants to casually experience jazz rhythms or enjoy some cool music during a short break.