Welcome to the exciting world of jazz improvisation! Whether you are using this book as a supplement to the Essential Elements for Jazz Ensemble method book or just by itself, this play-along book will help you get started creating your own improvised solos. The recordings feature professional jazz players performing well-known jazz classics and provide an excellent model for playing in a jazz style. In addition, sample solos are provided as a guide for creating effective melodies. An added feature on the CD-ROM is the Amazing Slow Downer software program for changing the tempo of any of the recorded tracks - when used in your computer, ASD allows you to adjust the tempo to suit your needs as you progress through the book. Includes 10 blues classics: All Blues · Bags' Groove · Blue 'N Boogie · Blue Monk · Blues in Frankie's Flat · Blues in the Closet · Cold Duck Time · St. Louis Blues · Straight No Chaser · Tenor Madness. · Play-along CD with choice of full recording (with melody) or rhythm section only · Tempo adjustment software (computer required) · Sample written solos and improvising hints · Rhythm book includes bass lines, piano voicings, and drum patterns