by Mark Levine

Commentary by Henry Bahrou – Guitarist, Music Theorist, Music Academy Director

Anyone studying Jazz should read The Jazz Theory Book by Mark Levine.
Mark delivers a brilliant and comprehensive guide covering Theory and Scales, Improvisation, Reharmonization, Playing Tunes, and much more. With over 500 pages of text and more than 750 musical examples, this book is written in the language of working jazz musicians—making it both user-friendly and deeply educational.

Mark Levine walks the student from fundamental techniques such as chord construction and II–V–I progressions, through more advanced topics like scale theory, reharmonization, slash chords, bebop scales, and lead sheet reading. His work offers not just knowledge, but a structured path for mastering Jazz theory.

Adding my own commentary:
This book is especially valuable for musicians like myself who studied classical music theory first. The Jazz Theory Book bridges the gap, teaching the language of Jazz through a structured academic understanding, yet with a practical, player-focused approach. Mark Levine’s method connects beautifully with the theory foundations of classical music while opening up the world of improvisation and jazz performance.

Endorsements from notable musicians and publications:

“This could be the single finest music book of any type I’ve ever seen. It’s certainly the best explanation of the mechanics of jazz…”
— Bass Player Magazine

“The Jazz Theory Book has the clarity that most pedagogical books strive for… Truly a magnificent accomplishment.”
— Rufus Reid

“Mark Levine has created the most comprehensive and complete theory book I’ve ever seen. Highly recommended.”
— Richie Beirach

“Finally, a book on jazz theory and harmony that is easy to understand yet covers in great depth just about all the basics… I wish I’d had this book 40 years ago.”
— Bobby Shew

“The Jazz Theory Book should be in every musician’s library regardless of their level of ability.”
— James Moody

(Original endorsements courtesy of Sher Music Co.)

If you’d like to learn more about The Jazz Theory Book or purchase a copy, you can find it here:
Link to Sher Music Co. official page