Your view on these jazz adaptations of standard Christmas carols will depend on whether or not you like a new twist on old favourites. What is for sure is that these are really good arrangements. The accompaniments are very important in this process as they drive the rhythms and harmonies, leaving the flute to sound fantastic over the top! In this volume The Ukranian Carol with its bass and drums backing absolutely works and there is a beautiful twist to the harmony for the Holly and the Ivy. The written out improvisations can make you sound really professional - a jazzer's perfect festive treat!
Christmas Jazz Volume 2 consists of five festive arrangements including smoochy ballads (The Holly and the Ivy, and Away in a manger, but also tunes with serious groove factor (O Holy Night - with a funk groove/cheeky quality with optional growl/flutter tongue), plus Ukrainian Folk Carol in a crazy swing style (you'll probably recognise it my a different name though ;), and Deck the halls (in a minor key, inspired by the beautiful music of Argentinian composer Astor Piazzolla). A set of demonstration (flute with backing), and backing tracks are included with the book (with either CD option, or via download using the link provided, or as PDF/MP3 edition sent to your email - please allow up to 48 hours for email delivery, although we usually try and send files same day, depending on which option you have chosen).
As well as featuring the original tune, each piece has an element of written out accessible flute solo; enabling you to sound like a pro. The pieces are not too advanced (although Ukrainian Folk Carol is perhaps around grade 6-7), and players of intermediate ability will be able to play all without any difficulty. Some, (Away in a manger, and The Holly and the Ivy for instance) are even more accessible; around grade 3-4.
Also available:
Christmas Jazz for Flute and Piano Volume 1
Christmas Jazz for Flute and Piano Volume 3
