One of the truly great books for pianists who play the great American songbook repertoire. Why it is out of print is something beyond my comprehension. It offers so much by a master of this music, the great Dick Hyman. I have gotten so many ideas from this wonderful, useful essential helper, that it is worth its weight in platinum. It will in many cases open up your mind to new possibilities of harmonization, while still offering the traditional chording from the original songs. Buy it, cherish it, use it and you will wear it out -- with joy.
The essence of this book is that it provides some of the greatest American songs ever written -- with their traditional harmonies indicated by chord symbols. The brilliant, inspired part is that there are also alternate harmonies printed in red chord symbols so that you can provide some interesting and tasty fresh harmonies that may not have occurred to you. Or you can alternate between the two. A great idea, much imitated -- but not as well done as by Dick Hyman in this book (and a sequel, the name of which I can't remember right now). I believe both are out of print -- which is a publishing sin!
My only caveat, and it is a small one, is that the songs are presented in lead sheet form, that is, they are not full versions of the songs with left and right hand parts. The songs have the melodies with chord symbols (and alternate chord symbols). You have to be able to read the chord symbols and provide the left hand accompaniment yourself to be able to fully utilize this excellent book, so a certain amount of musical skill is necessary.
PLEASE PUT THIS BOOK BACK IN PRINT. GOOD MUSICIANS NEED IT AND ALL OTHERS CAN PROFIT FROM ITS USE!!!!!
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