[Beginner] Start with this song! A collection of practice tunes for jazz beginners

What Is This Thing Called LoveCole Porter

Bill Evans Trio – What Is This Thing Called Love (Official Visualizer)

What Is This Thing Called Love with Advanced Comping Voicings

Composed and written by Cole Porter for the musical Wake Up and Dream, which premiered in March 1929, this piece is a masterpiece with a sophisticated sound that explores the universal theme of “What is love?” Like Tadd Dameron’s Hot House, it has become a fundamental standard for performers to the extent that new tunes have been written using its chord progression.

Its distinctive changes, with frequent shifts between major and minor, make it ideal for cultivating a jazz sensibility.

Start by grasping its AABA form and try playing with an awareness of the moments when the mood shifts between light and dark.

It’s also perfect as material for practicing improvisation, so if you’re looking to get into jazz, definitely give it a try!

Blue MonkThelonious Monk

Blue Monk

Thelonious Monk – Blue Monk: Easy Piano Arrangement

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.

Take the “A” TrainBilly Strayhorn

Duke Ellington and His Famous Orchestra – Take the “A” Train (Audio)

Take the ‘A’ Train – Easy Solo Example for Tenor Sax

Set in the New York City subway, this piece has continued to be loved worldwide as a jazz standard.

Composed by Billy Strayhorn in 1939 and recorded by the Duke Ellington Orchestra in February 1941, it became the ensemble’s signature theme.

There’s also a well-known anecdote that the title came from a note showing directions to Ellington’s home.

In Japan, it was featured in the film “Swing Girls,” and its lively swing feel has captivated many listeners.

When you take on performing it, it’s important to have a firm grasp of the basic AABA form.

Start by playing the simple melody as if you’re singing it, and try to feel the distinctive rhythms of jazz.

There Is No Greater LoveIsham Jones

[There Is] No Greater Love

There is No Greater Love – Easy Solo Example for Tenor Sax

The classic “There Is No Greater Love,” cherished by many musicians for its romantic title and beautiful melody, carries a universal theme that proclaims there is no love greater than this.

Composed by Isham Jones in 1936, the piece was released that same year as the B-side of a single connected to the film “The Music Goes ’Round.” From recordings by the Isham Jones Orchestra to masterful interpretations by greats like Miles Davis and Sonny Rollins, it has inspired countless performances.

With its memorable melody and accessible chord progression, it’s perfect for experiencing the sound of jazz—equally suited to a tender ballad or a lively swing.

Start by cherishing the melody, and enjoy playing it at a tempo that feels free and natural.

All the Things You AreJerome Kern

Jerome Kern – All The Things You Are [1939]

All the Things You Are — Chord Melody Arrangement

Written for the musical Very Warm for May, which premiered in November 1939, this piece is a standard celebrated for its beautiful melody and skillful modulations.

Composed by Jerome Kern, it expresses feelings for a beloved with rich emotion, and its beauty remains intact even as an instrumental.

It has been embraced beyond the stage, appearing in the film Broadway Rhythm and in Kern’s biographical film Till the Clouds Roll By.

Its distinctive 36-bar form and key changes make it perfect for studying jazz language.

Why not start by confirming the chord colors and performing the melody at a slow tempo, as if you were singing it?

Bag’s GrooveMilt Jackson

Bag’s Groove

Bag’s Groove – Easy Solo Example for Alto Sax

A staple of jam sessions beloved by players around the world, this tune is a blues number composed by vibraphone master Milt Jackson.

Since its first recording in April 1952, countless great performances have emerged, but the version on the 1957 album “Bags’ Groove,” featuring a collaboration with Miles Davis, is essential listening.

It follows a basic 12-bar blues in F, and its riff-based, memorable melody makes it perfect for those looking to learn improvisation.

The chart is simple, which makes it all the more important to convey a strong sense of swing and to handle the spaces and rests effectively.

First, listen until you can hum the head, and enjoy the conversational spirit unique to jazz.

Work SongNat Adderley

Work Song

Work Song – Easy Solo Example for Tenor Sax

This piece, inspired by grueling work songs, is striking for its chain-striking rhythm and wistful melody.

It’s the title track showcased by cornetist Nat Adderley on his classic 1960 album Work Song, and a longtime favorite in his older brother Cannonball Adderley’s band.

While it’s also known for the lyrics penned by Oscar Brown Jr., beginners on their instruments are encouraged to try it as an instrumental.

Because it’s essentially a simple minor blues progression, you can enjoy richly atmospheric improvisation using just a five-note pentatonic scale, without getting into difficult theory.

It’s a jam-session staple, so start by learning the famous riff and enjoy the fun of musical conversation with your friends.