Jam School Bookstore
Study Materials to Help You Jam!
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Click on images for links to publishers
Music Theory Sources
Classical
Music For Dummies - There are now 'Dummies' books out for jazz, blues, guitar,
& keyboards, so why this one? The answer is that Classical Music for
Dummies is written by musicians, and is very good guide to music overall. It's Dreaded
Music Theory Chapter is one of the best single explanations that I've ever seen on the
basic mechanics of music. Music basics are presented understandably and humorously. The
whole family will get great enjoyment from this book. (I refer directly to parts of this
book in the activity pages)
Master Theory Workbook - The first three
volumes of the Master Theory Workbook will take you from a total novice to someone who can
read, write, count and harmonize at a basic level. It is required for all my private
students. (I refer directly to lessons from these books in the activity pages)
Edly's
Music Theory for Practical People - Outstanding! The single most practical
book that I've seen yet. I should've known that it was written by a clarinet
player! Terrific coverage of a number of issues, particularly the character of
chords and chord changes. Well worth the $25.00 price tag.
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Music Theory (Michael Miller) - A true winner
from the makers of those orange-and-white "Idiot's Guides". While not as concise
as that single chapter in Classical Music for Dummies, this book has a
terrific degree of completeness and readily address real-world subjects like
common chord progressions, and putting chordal harmony to songs.
Simply put, this book is an excellent blend of traditional and modern theory, and of classical and popular music. At $18.95 per copy, it's well worth taking a look at on your own.
One link that you should try: Gary Eiwer's Easy Music Theory Lessons. The lessons are totally free, and you can also print out manuscript paper from the site.
Another terrific resource is the Sibelius Scale & Arpeggio Page. These are files that you can print, play and transpose using the free Scorch plugin.
Recordings
Louis Jordan - Any 'greatest hits' collection by Louis Jordan is a textbook in rhythm & blues, written by one of its major grandaddies.
James Brown - Funk horn bands like Tower of Power, Kool & the Gang, the Commodores, etc. almost all operate with this band as their model. Check out the bass lines of Bootsy Collins, and the riffs of the JB Horns.