MISTY
by Erroll Garner
arranged/performed by Judy Choi
This piece was composed in 1954. Garner wrote this piece as a part of the album "Contrasts", released the year after. Later, lyrics were in fact added to the melody, and it became the number 14 hit on the Billboard Top 100 in 1975, sung by Johnny Mathis (Wilson).
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Some things to listen for in this piece:
- Drum brushes on the snare piece to give a less harsh sound
- Vibrato (reverb effect) on many notes
- Some dissonances to resolutions
YARDBIRD SUITE
by Charlie Parker
arranged/performed by Judy Choi
This piece was composed in 1946. It is a bebop composition which incorporates a syncopated rhythm theme as well as a fast original sound. Parker's nickname was "Bird", so he combined his own name with the classical word "Suite" which mimics the traditional multi-sectioned organization (Burlingame).
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Some things to listen for:
- Short, choppy ends of notes
- Emphasis of hi-hat and ride cymbal in drum part
- Upbeat, fast tempo
References
Burlingame, S. Jazz Standards Songs and Instrumentals (Yardbird Suite), www.jazzstandards.com/compositions-1/yardbirdsuite.htm.
Wilson, J. Jazz Standards Songs and Instrumentals (Misty), www.jazzstandards.com/compositions-1/misty.htm.