As music enthusiasts, we believe that the best jazz music is produced by pianists. The piano has been the backbone of jazz music for decades and has influenced countless musicians to take up the instrument. With so many piano pieces available, it can be challenging to choose the right one for jazz lovers. In this article, we will share our top picks for the best piano pieces for jazz enthusiasts.
- “Take Five” by Dave Brubeck
“Take Five” is a timeless classic that has been a fan favorite for decades. The song was written by Dave Brubeck and performed by his quartet. The track’s unique 5/4 time signature gives it a distinctive sound that makes it stand out from other jazz pieces. The song’s catchy melody and improvisation make it an excellent choice for jazz enthusiasts.
2. “So What” by Miles Davis
“So What” is a classic jazz piece composed by Miles Davis and performed on his 1959 album “Kind of Blue.” The song’s modal jazz structure and improvisation make it a favorite among jazz musicians. The track features an iconic bassline that sets the tone for the song, making it a must-listen for jazz lovers.
3. “Round Midnight” by Thelonious Monk
“Round Midnight” is a jazz standard written by Thelonious Monk. The song’s melancholic melody and beautiful chord progression make it a favorite among jazz enthusiasts. The piece has been covered by numerous artists, including Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, and Sarah Vaughan.
4. “Watermelon Man” by Herbie Hancock
“Watermelon Man” is a funky jazz piece composed by Herbie Hancock. The song’s catchy melody and groovy bassline make it an instant hit with jazz lovers. The track features an excellent piano solo by Hancock, making it an excellent choice for pianists looking to expand their repertoire.
5. “Blue Monk” by Thelonious Monk
“Blue Monk” is a classic jazz piece written and performed by Thelonious Monk. The song’s distinctive melody and chord progression make it a favorite among jazz enthusiasts. The track features an excellent piano solo by Monk, making it an excellent choice for pianists looking to improve their skills.
6. “In a Sentimental Mood” by Duke Ellington
“In a Sentimental Mood” is a beautiful jazz piece composed by Duke Ellington. The song’s romantic melody and beautiful chord progression make it a favorite among jazz enthusiasts. The track features an excellent piano solo by Ellington, making it an excellent choice for pianists looking to expand their repertoire.
7. “All Blues” by Miles Davis
“All Blues” is a classic jazz piece composed by Miles Davis and performed on his 1959 album “Kind of Blue.” The song’s bluesy melody and laid-back tempo make it a favorite among jazz enthusiasts. The track features an excellent piano solo by Bill Evans, making it an excellent choice for pianists looking to improve their improvisation skills.
8. “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra
“Fly Me to the Moon” is a classic jazz standard written by Bart Howard and popularized by Frank Sinatra. The song’s romantic lyrics and catchy melody make it a favorite among jazz enthusiasts. The track features an excellent piano solo by Count Basie, making it an excellent choice for pianists looking to expand their repertoire.
9. “A Night in Tunisia” by Dizzy Gillespie
“A Night in Tunisia” is a classic jazz piece composed by Dizzy Gillespie. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it a favorite among jazz enthusiasts. The track features an excellent piano solo by Gillespie, making it an excellent choice for pianists looking to improve their improvisation skills.