David Baker's Arranging & Composing: For the Small Ensemble, Jazz, R & B, Jazz-Rock : Book Review

David Baker's Arranging and Composing is a must-have resource for musicians and composers seeking to expand their skills and knowledge. Written by renowned jazz educator and composer David Baker, this book offers comprehensive guidance on the art of arranging and composing.

One of the standout features of this book is Baker's ability to break down complex concepts into easily understandable sections. He delves into topics such as harmonic progressions and orchestration techniques, providing readers with practical techniques that can be applied immediately. This approach makes it accessible to musicians of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals.

The inclusion of numerous musical examples greatly enhances the learning experience. Baker provides a wide range of examples that illustrate the concepts discussed in the text, allowing readers to see how they can be applied in various musical contexts. Additionally, the thoughtfully designed exercises challenge readers and help them develop their skills as arrangers and composers.

Another strength of this book is its exploration of different musical styles. Baker covers various genres, including jazz, pop, and classical music, enabling readers to broaden their understanding and adapt their knowledge to different musical traditions. Whether you are interested in big band arrangements or composing for small ensembles, you will find valuable insights and guidance in this book.

Beyond the technical aspects, David Baker's Arranging and Composing encourages readers to tap into their creativity and find their own unique musical voice. While providing a solid foundation in arranging and composing techniques, Baker emphasizes the importance of experimentation and personal expression. This approach empowers readers to take risks and explore their own ideas, ultimately helping them find their distinct sound.

What are readers saying?

The book "Arranging & Composing" by David Baker has received a range of reviews from readers. Some readers praised the book for its valuable insights and comprehensive content, considering it a must-read for serious musicians. They appreciated the depth of knowledge and wealth of information that Baker shared, as well as the relevance of the techniques and strategies to both jazz and classical genres. Another aspect that was positively highlighted was the focus on arranging, making it a valuable resource for composers looking to expand their skills in this area.

However, there were also criticisms of the book. Some readers found the material to be overly technical and challenging to understand and apply to their own musical endeavors. It was mentioned that the book assumes a high level of prior knowledge, which may not be suitable for beginners or those without a formal music education.

In addition to the technical aspects, some readers felt that the writing style of the book was dry and academic. They found it difficult to engage with the content due to the absence of anecdotes or examples to illustrate the concepts. While the book may offer valuable information, the presentation was not universally appealing.

Despite these mixed reviews, "Arranging & Composing" is still recommended as a resource for musicians and composers looking to deepen their understanding of music theory and composition. However, it is suggested that the book is best suited for individuals with a solid foundation in music, rather than those who are just starting out.