Customer Reviews

Jazz Arranging

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Jazz Arranging by Norman David is a superb little book, I'm amazed it doesn't appear in arranging book lists more often. I recently read 'Modern Jazz Voicings' by Ted Pease and Ken Pullig, and 'Arranging for Large Jazz Ensemble' by Ken Pullig and Dick Lowell, and as fabulous as those two books are, I'd say this book belongs up there at the top with them.

The exercises give you immediate hands-on experience with scoring and transposition for various instruments, and it explains the various concepts and techniques in a clear and logical fashion. It starts with your usual description of each instrument, ranges, etc. Then, it covers writing for the rhythm section, two-part writing, 3/4/5-part writing, special voicings (fourths, USTs, clusters and spreads), and expanded methods (such as line-writing). It ends with two chapters on large ensemble writing and big-band writing. The exercises closing each chapter are very rewarding, and if you're feeling diligent, you can breeze through this book in no time.

Of course, a prior knowledge of jazz harmony is recommended, which can easily be obtained from excellent books such as 'The Jazz Language' by Dan Haerle, 'Jazz Theory and Practice' by Lawn/Hellmer, or 'The Jazz Theory Book' by Mark Levine. If you know the basics, however, you should make this one of the first arranging books you purchase!

Norman David's little text is the best of its type. He illustrates the essentials and quite a lot more in a concise and very, very helpful manner. Great work!

Dr. Norman David has created a work of pure intellectual genius. This text on Jazz arrangement will serve as the high-water mark with which all future discussions on the subject will be judged. Professor David has an extensive resume of musical accomplishment that would make even the most highly regarded player cringe with envy. It is this experiential knowledge that shines through in this comprehensive guide. There is no other work as complete and well organized, with the intent to impart practical knowledge for the professional, as is this book by Dr. Norman David. I not only recommend this book on arranging, but consider it dogmatic for those that seek to become true professional musicians.