In The Jazz Theory Book, acclaimed jazz pianist and educator Mark Levine delivers a masterclass in understanding the building blocks of jazz harmony and improvisation. Levine famously states that a great jazz solo is “1% magic and 99% stuff that is explainable, analyzable, categorizable, and doable.” This book is all about that 99%.
From the very beginning, Levine makes it clear that there is no single universal jazz theory. Instead, he presents theory as a framework—a way of examining and understanding the sounds created by legends like Charlie Parker and John Coltrane. In his words, theory is “the little intellectual dance we do around the music,” a tool for unpacking the complexity and brilliance behind great jazz.
While the book is written with pianists in mind, its content is incredibly valuable for musicians of all instruments, including guitarists. It offers in-depth explanations and examples on topics such as chord-scale theory, II-V-I progressions, modal interchange, bebop scales, reharmonization techniques, slash chords, and more. Jazz players are expected to navigate complex chord structures and frequent modulations—skills that this book systematically builds from the ground up.
Compared to the simplicity of three-chord pop and rock tunes, jazz can be intimidating for players not used to chords with extensions like major 7ths, minor 9ths, altered dominants, and 13th chords. The Jazz Theory Book demystifies these and provides a structured approach to mastering them.
Whether you’re currently taking lessons or learning independently, this book is an excellent companion for serious study. It bridges the gap between theory and practice and is widely considered essential reading for any musician seeking to develop fluency in jazz.
If you’re looking for a single, comprehensive guide to unlock the mechanics of jazz harmony and improvisation, Mark Levine’s The Jazz Theory Book is a must-have resource on your shelf.
Henry Bahrou
Guitarist, Music Theorist, Music Academy Director
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