Delve into the melodious world of music, where the concept of ‘standards‘ resonates with a special significance. Standards in music refer to compositions that are widely recognized, performed, and recorded across generations of musicians. They form the backbone of musical education and performance, especially in genres like jazz. In this article, we explore the intriguing world of jazz standards and their significance.

Musical standards are akin to a common language spoken by musicians worldwide. These pieces are not just songs but are historical artifacts that carry the essence of a particular era, style, or artist. They serve as a foundational repertoire for learning musicians and a canvas for seasoned artists to express their creativity and innovation. In genres like jazz, these standards form a lexicon of sorts, essential for understanding the genre’s intricacies and evolution.

Jazz standards, specifically, are musical compositions that have attained a wide recognition within the jazz repertoire. They are the quintessential songs that every jazz musician is expected to know. These pieces often originate from the early 20th century’s Broadway shows and Hollywood musicals but are reinterpreted by jazz musicians to include elements of improvisation and complex harmonies. Jazz standards serve as a showcase of a musician’s technical skill, understanding of harmony, and improvisational abilities.

Over the years, the list of compositions considered as jazz standards has evolved. This evolution reflects changes in public taste, musical trends, and the continuous innovation inherent in jazz. From the smooth melodies of George Gershwin to the complex chord progressions of John Coltrane, jazz standards encompass a diverse range of styles and eras, each contributing to the rich tapestry of jazz music.

This article meticulously differentiates between ‘Jazz Standards’ originating from the jazz genre, composed by jazz musicians (usually for their own recordings and performances or written as sidemen for the leader’s album), and ‘Standards’—typically Broadway Show Tunes and Hollywood Movie Musicals.

Here are some of the top composers in each category and some of the Standards that they created.

• George Gershwin: Credited with over 500 songs, exemplifying a blend of classical and jazz elements. “Summertime” and “Rhapsody in Blue” showcase Gershwin’s unique ability to blend classical and jazz elements.
• Richard Rodgers: Right up there with Duke Ellington with over 900 songs, His compositions like “My Favorite Things” and “The Lady is a Tramp” have become jazz staples.
• Cole Porter: Known for “Night and Day” and “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” Porter’s songs are celebrated for their witty lyrics and memorable melodies.
• Other prolific and/or significant “Standards composers include Jerome Kern, Irving Berlin, Harold Arlen, Johnny Mercer, Hoagy Carmichael, Jimmy Van Heusen

• Duke Ellington: Having written well over 1,000 compositions (some say closer to 2000) his masterpieces like “Take the ‘A’ Train,” and “Satin Doll,” Ellington’s compositions are a blend of sophistication and soul.
• Thelonious Monk: Over 70 compositions, “Round Midnight” exhibit Monk’s genius in creating intricate melodies over unconventional harmonies and songs like “Straight No Chaser” became a standard “head” for the jazz blues progression.
• John Coltrane: His works, such as “Giant Steps” and “Naima,” are renowned for their complex structures and emotional depth.
• Wayne Shorter: Shorter’s “Footprints” and “Speak No Evil” are testaments to his innovative approach to jazz composition.
• Other jazz artists whose compositions have achieved “Jazz Standard” category would include Chick Corea, Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, Benny Golson, Steve Swallow, Bill Evans.

A contrafact is a musical composition built using the chord progression of a pre-existing song, but with a new melody and arrangement.
This was used extensively in the Jazz world.

The most famous and most used being Gershwin’s “I Got Rhythm” otherwise know in the jazz world as rhythm changes.
Examples of that are
• “52nd Street Theme” by Thelonious Monk
• “Anthropology” by Charlie Parker (he used “Rhythm Changes” for many of his compositions)
• “Cottontail” by Duke Ellington

And of course an untold number of “songs” were written over the 12 bar blues and jazz blues progression.

Here are some famous examples of other contrafact songs
• Charlie Parker’s “Ornithology” was from “How High The Moon“
• “Parisian Thoroughfare” by Bud Powell was “Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea“
• “Now He Beats The Drum, Now He Stops” by Chick Corea from “How Deep Is The Ocean“
• “Lullaby of Birdland” George Shearing was “Love Me or Leave Me“

There are many, many other “contrafact” songs of course.

There exists another category of standard music that doesn’t originate from musicals, films, or conventional jazz.

This category emerges from the world music scene, predominantly featuring influences from Brazilian, Latin American, Caribbean, and African cultures.

Prominent styles like Bossa Nova, Samba, and Afro Cuban have firmly established themselves as standards within the jazz repertoire.

Esteemed composers like Antonio Carlos “Tom” Jobim and Luiz Bonfa, with their iconic compositions such as “The Girl From Ipanema,” “Wave” and “Black Orpheus” have solidified these genres as essential knowledge for jazz aficionados.

Sonny Rollins’ St. Thomas is a great example of the Caribbean influence.

Stan Getz was a pioneer in integrating the Bossa Nova style into jazz, while Dizzy Gillespie notably embraced the Afro Cuban genre with tracks like “Manteca” and “A Night in Tunisia.“

Over time, various other world music styles have seamlessly blended into the jazz standard repertoire, enriching its diversity and scope

In the realm of music, a ‘standard’ refers to a composition that has gained widespread recognition and is consistently performed and interpreted across different musical genres. These standards are more than mere songs; they are benchmarks of musical excellence and creativity, often serving as templates for performance and improvisation. They embody a perfect blend of melody, harmony, and rhythm, offering a quintessential experience of a particular musical style or era.

The concept of musical standards has a rich history that mirrors the evolution of music itself. Initially, standards were predominantly associated with classical compositions, revered for their complexity and technical mastery. As music evolved, particularly with the advent of jazz in the early 20th century, the scope of what constituted a standard expanded dramatically.
In the jazz genre, standards often originated from Broadway theater and Hollywood musicals of the 1920s to the 1950s. These compositions, characterized by their memorable melodies and rich harmonic structures, were eagerly adopted and reinterpreted by jazz musicians, who infused them with improvisational flair and rhythmic complexity. This tradition of adopting and adapting standards continued as jazz evolved, with each era adding its own repertoire to the jazz standard canon.

Standards play a crucial role across various music genres, serving as a common language that bridges different styles and eras. In jazz, for instance, standards form the core repertoire for both learning and performance. They are essential for understanding the genre’s harmonic and improvisational language and serve as a vital tool for honing a musician’s craft.
In the world of classical music, standards are revered compositions often used for training and performance, showcasing a composer’s mastery and a performer’s interpretative skill. Similarly, in contemporary genres like pop, rock, and R&B, certain songs achieve standard status due to their widespread popularity and influence.
Standards also serve an important cultural function, preserving the musical heritage of a genre or era. They are musical snapshots that capture the essence of their time, providing insight into the historical and cultural contexts in which they were created.

Whereas Jazz in the 30’s 40’s and 50’s drew heavily from songs from shows and films, not all standards emerged from those two arenas.

Jazz musicians also cover songs from the popular music of the day, be that rock, soul or pop.

Some Examples of that would be:
• Roland Kirk’s cover of “Never Can Say Goodbye” by the Jackson 5

• Pat Martino’s solo guitar rendition of Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now”

• Dave Liebman’s cover of “Miss You” by the Rolling Stones.

• Miles Davis’ cover of “Perfect Way” by Scritti Politti.

While these last examples are decidedly not “straight ahead jazz” in the usual sense, they are an indication of jazz artists using popular songs of the day as vehicles for improvisation. That’s pretty much what was happening back with songs from the Tin Pan Alley, Broadway Show Tunes and Hollywood musicals. They were the popular tunes of the day.

Jazz musicians are always looking for new materials that they can add their own flair and hip interpretations on. You are too, right?

Musical standards are more than just well-known compositions; they are the pillars upon which genres are built and through which they evolve. They are a testament to the enduring power of music to transcend time and trend, connecting generations of musicians and audiences alike. Whether in a jazz club, a concert hall, or a casual listening session, standards continue to enchant, challenge, and inspire, securing their place in the annals of musical history.

Jazz standards are the bedrock of the jazz genre, serving as both a foundation and a springboard for creativity. These are musical compositions that have gained widespread popularity and are widely known, performed, and recorded within the jazz tradition. Characterized by their memorable melodies, rich harmonic progressions, and rhythmic flexibility, jazz standards provide a common language for jazz musicians. They are the tunes that every jazz player is expected to know, the songs that form the backbone of countless jazz performances and jam sessions.

In music, the term “standard” generally refers to a composition that is widely recognized and frequently performed across various musical genres. A “jazz standard,” specifically, is a musical composition that holds significant importance in the jazz repertoire. The key difference lies in the genre association and the way the compositions are typically performed:

Genre Association:

• Standard: Can belong to any genre, including pop, classical, or folk, and is recognized broadly across these genres.
  Jazz Standard: Specifically associated with jazz and is an integral part of jazz musicians’ repertoire.

Performance Style:

• Standard: Typically performed in a manner that is closely aligned with the original composition or popular versions.
  Jazz Standard: Known for being interpreted and improvised upon by jazz musicians, often leading to numerous unique renditions that differ significantly from the original composition.

The evolution of jazz standards is a fascinating journey through music history. Many of these standards originated in the early 20th century, emerging from the realms of Tin Pan Alley, Broadway shows, and the Hollywood musicals of the 1920s to the 1950s. Composers like George Gershwin, Cole Porter, and Duke Ellington penned songs that would become timeless classics, embraced and reinterpreted by generations of jazz artists.
Jazz standards are significant not only for their musical quality but also for their role in the development of jazz as an art form. They provided a framework upon which early jazz musicians could improvise, a practice that is central to jazz music. The standards also served as a means for jazz to engage with and contribute to popular culture, bridging the gap between jazz as an art form and as popular music.

The list of jazz standards is extensive, but some have risen to the top as the most iconic. “Autumn Leaves,” a melancholic tune with a descending harmonic sequence, has become a favorite for its emotive quality and improvisational potential. Duke Ellington’s “Take the ‘A’ Train” offers a snapshot of the swing era with its infectious rhythm and memorable melody. “All the Things You Are,” by Jerome Kern, showcases complex chord progressions and has been a proving ground for jazz musicians’ harmonic knowledge and improvisational skills.
Other notable standards include “Body and Soul,” a ballad that has been a showcase for emotional depth and lyrical expression in jazz, and “Summertime” from George Gershwin’s opera “Porgy and Bess,” which has been embraced for its haunting melody and adaptability to various jazz styles.

Jazz standards are much more than just popular songs; they are a testament to the enduring power of jazz music and its ability to evolve and adapt. These standards have not only shaped the course of jazz history but have also provided a common language and repertoire for jazz musicians around the world. They continue to inspire new interpretations and innovations, ensuring that jazz remains a vibrant and dynamic art form.

In the world of music, the term ‘standards’ often brings to mind iconic melodies and harmonies that have stood the test of time, resonating across generations. However, within this broad category, a distinction emerges between general musical standards and jazz standards. This article delves into their key differences, explores their composition, structure, and performance aspects, and highlights the role of improvisation in jazz standards.

General musical standards, often stemming from the Western classical tradition or popular music, are compositions that have gained significant popularity and are frequently performed or referenced. These include works by composers like Bach, Beethoven, or popular songs from the early to mid-20th century by artists like The Beatles or Elton John.
In contrast, jazz standards specifically pertain to the jazz genre. Originating mostly from the early 20th century, these pieces often began as popular songs from Broadway theatre or Hollywood musicals and were later adopted and adapted by jazz musicians. Famous examples include George Gershwin’s “Summertime” or Duke Ellington’s “Take the ‘A’ Train.”

Compositionally, general musical standards tend to adhere to a more structured and composed approach. They often follow a set arrangement and are performed as written, with little deviation. This is especially true in classical music, where fidelity to the composer’s intent is paramount.
Jazz standards, however, are more fluid. While they might start with a basic structure – often a repeated form like the 12-bar blues or the 32-bar AABA – they serve as a canvas for improvisation. Jazz musicians use these structures as a basis for spontaneous creation, often reharmonizing chords, altering the melody, and improvising new melodies over the given chord progressions.

Improvisation is the heart and soul of jazz standards. Unlike general musical standards, where improvisation might be limited or non-existent, jazz standards thrive on the unique, moment-to-moment creative expressions of the musicians. This improvisation is not random but is deeply informed by a musician’s understanding of harmony, rhythm, and the particular style of the piece being performed.
In a typical jazz standard performance, the piece might begin with a statement of the main theme, followed by individual or collective improvisations based on the song’s chord changes, before returning to the theme to close the performance. Each rendition of a jazz standard can sound markedly different from another, showcasing the individuality and creativity of the performers.
In summary, while both general musical standards and jazz standards occupy esteemed places in the musical landscape, they differ significantly in their approach to composition, structure, and performance. Jazz standards, with their emphasis on improvisation and creative interpretation, offer a distinct and dynamic experience, both for the performers and the listeners. These pieces not only highlight the skills and creativity of the musicians but also reflect the ever-evolving nature of jazz as an art form.

Non Jazz Standards and Jazz standards, a vital part of jazz music’s rich history, have significantly influenced contemporary music. Originating in the early 20th century, these compositions have shaped the sounds and styles of various genres. Jazz standards like “Autumn Leaves,” “All the Things You Are,” and “Take the ‘A’ Train” have left an indelible mark on the music world, transcending their original jazz contexts. Contemporary musicians often draw inspiration from the harmonic complexity, improvisational elements, and expressive melodies found in these standards, incorporating them into rock, pop, R&B, and even electronic music. This cross-genre influence underscores the universality and timelessness of jazz standards.

Jazz standards are fundamental in jazz education and learning instruments. They provide a practical framework for students to understand jazz theory, harmony, and improvisational techniques. Learning these standards helps budding musicians develop a solid foundation in jazz fundamentals such as swing rhythm, chord progressions, and the unique language of jazz improvisation. Additionally, jazz standards offer a repertoire that students can use to practice and showcase their skills, whether in jam sessions, auditions, or performances. This repertoire also fosters a deeper appreciation and understanding of jazz history, as students explore the works of legendary musicians and composers.

In the digital era, Real Book Software has transformed the way musicians engage with jazz standards, offering an innovative and interactive learning experience. This software offers a comprehensive digital database of jazz fake books, allowing instant access to hundreds of jazz standards and other jazz charts along with their recordings. It facilitates learning and performing these pieces by providing chord charts, audio tracks, and other educational tools. This accessibility is particularly beneficial for both individual practice and group rehearsals, enabling musicians to explore a vast repertoire with ease. Moreover, such software often includes features that cater to musicians of all skill levels, making jazz standards more approachable and enjoyable to learn.

Jazz standards continue to be a vital component of modern music and education. Their influence extends beyond the jazz genre, inspiring contemporary artists and shaping the sound of today’s music. In education, they remain a cornerstone for learning and understanding jazz, offering a rich and diverse repertoire for students. Digital resources like Real Book Software further enhance the accessibility and utility of these standards, proving that the legacy of jazz standards is as vibrant and relevant today as it has ever been.

In the world of jazz, the Real Book Software has emerged as an indispensable tool, revolutionizing the way musicians, educators, and enthusiasts engage with jazz standards. This innovative software bridges the gap between traditional learning methods and the digital age, offering an extensive digital database of jazz fake books.

Real Book Software is a comprehensive digital solution designed specifically for jazz musicians. It transforms the iconic Real Book charts into a user-friendly software database, loaded with an extensive collection of jazz standards. The software’s intuitive design allows users to instantly find and practice songs, providing a seamless experience.

Real Book Software is not just a repository of songs; it’s an educational powerhouse that changes the way musicians learn and interact with jazz standards.

The software provides an interactive platform, where musicians can explore various jazz standards, understand their structure, and practice improvisation. It offers tools like adjustable tempos and keys, making it easier to learn and adapt songs to different skill levels.

With a vast collection of jazz standards and other jazz songs that never made it to “standard status”, Real Book Software serves as an expansive resource. Musicians can explore different styles and eras of jazz, from bebop to modern jazz, enabling a deeper understanding and appreciation of the genre’s evolution.

Real Book Software transcends its role as a digital fake book, offering numerous benefits to its users.

For musicians, the software is a practice companion that provides flexibility and variety. It allows them to practice anywhere, anytime, with a wealth of resources at their fingertips. Whether it’s preparing for gigs or personal practice, the software caters to all their needs.

Educators find Real Book Software invaluable for jazz instruction. It aids in teaching song structure, harmony, and improvisation techniques. By providing a diverse range of standards, it helps students develop a well-rounded understanding of jazz.

Jazz enthusiasts can delve deeper into the genre with Real Book Software. It offers an opportunity to explore the rich history and compositions that define jazz, making it an educational and enjoyable experience for anyone interested in the genre.

It’s more than just a software; it’s a gateway to the vast and varied world of jazz standards, serving musicians, educators, and enthusiasts alike. By embracing technology, it ensures the legacy of jazz continues to thrive in the modern era.
Visit Real Book Software’s home page to explore the world of jazz standards and experience the benefits of this remarkable tool.

Check out the bonuses and the list of all the charts and recordings that comes with the software.