[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!
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[For Beginners] Start with this song! A collection of practice tunes for jazz novices (21–30)
Fly Me to the MoonFrank Sinatra
This is the jazz number “Fly Me to the Moon,” which became famous as the ending theme of the TV anime Neon Genesis Evangelion, aired from 1995 to 1996.
Once people start playing the saxophone, many of them want to try jazz as well.
Since “Fly Me to the Moon” was used as the anime’s ending theme, it’s probably one of the best-known jazz tunes in Japan.
In the world of jazz, there are performance techniques like “fake” (embellishment) and improvisation, but the introduction video doesn’t feature complex improvised solos, so if you’ve only recently started playing the saxophone, aim to be able to play the notated parts in the video accurately.
At the same time, gradually learn the chords and other basics so you can bring out that jazz flavor in your playing.
The Way You Look TonightJimmy McGriff
The classic song “The Way You Look Tonight,” featured in the 1936 film Swing Time and winner of an Academy Award.
This rendition is a soulful cover by Hammond organ virtuoso Jimmy McGriff.
It’s included on his album The Way You Look Tonight, released around 1970, and it retains the sweetness of the original while adding an irresistible, body-moving groove.
His style of singing the melody with the organ’s characteristically rich tone is perfect for learning jazz expression.
Start by locking into the rhythm and playing comfortable phrases.
It’s a great track for experiencing the joy of jazz, and a solid recommendation for anyone looking to try their hand at improvisation.
The Days of Wine and RosesHenry Mancini
Henry Mancini produced numerous masterpieces as a master of film music, but among them, the theme song “The Days of Wine and Roses,” written for the 1962 film of the same name, stands out as a particularly brilliant work in his career.
This melodious, emotionally resonant piece later became widely known as a jazz standard.
Its deeply moving lyrics portray the struggle of people who, while on the verge of succumbing to alcoholism, strive to rise again.
Especially for jazz beginners, this song is an ideal entry point for experiencing the beauty and emotional power of jazz.
Its melody is not overly complex yet conveys great emotional depth, making it approachable for performers and profoundly affecting for listeners.
For those who wish to start learning jazz or gain a deeper understanding of it, this is a piece well worth tackling.
Love Is Here to StayGeorge Gershwin
Love Is Here to Stay, composed by George Gershwin with lyrics by Ira Gershwin, is one of the most beautiful and moving works among jazz standards.
Composed in 1937 and completed after George’s passing, the song celebrates the enduring nature of true love and has been cherished by many artists.
Its gentle, heartwarming melody and lyrics make it approachable for beginners while fully conveying the charm of jazz.
Known for its many interpretations, it invites performers to add their own arrangements and create a personal rendition of Love Is Here to Stay.
For those looking to start their journey into jazz, this piece is an ideal choice.
I hope you’ll not only grasp the essence of jazz but also feel the joy of performing it.
DoxySonny Rollins
“Doxy,” by the New York–born jazz master Sonny Rollins, is a jazz standard released in 1954 together with Miles Davis.
Its simple yet rich harmony makes it accessible for beginners and ideal for practicing improvisation.
Exemplifying both the diversity and universality of jazz, this piece is highly recommended for those encountering jazz for the first time or wishing to step into its magical world.
Especially for beginners wanting to learn the basics of jazz, it’s a valuable tune that teaches the joy of both playing and listening.
It’s truly a perfect piece for anyone wanting a first taste of jazz’s profound depth!