real christmas book pdf
The Real Christmas Book⁚ A Guide to Jazz Standards for the Holidays
The Real Christmas Book is a popular fake book among jazz musicians, featuring 150 unique arrangements of carols and contemporary holiday songs with sophisticated jazz chord changes. It is known for its user-friendly format, similar to the original Real Book, and contains a wide selection of holiday favorites, making it a go-to resource for jazz musicians during the Christmas season.
Introduction
The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and of course, music. For jazz musicians, the Christmas season brings a unique opportunity to explore a rich repertoire of holiday standards and contemporary Christmas tunes. While there are countless resources available for musicians seeking holiday music, one particular publication stands out as a favorite among jazz cats⁚ The Real Christmas Book; This comprehensive fake book offers a curated collection of classic carols and modern Christmas songs, each meticulously arranged with sophisticated jazz chord changes, making it an indispensable tool for jazz musicians looking to add a touch of festive swing to their performances.
This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of The Real Christmas Book, exploring its history, content, key features, and the various editions available. Whether you’re a seasoned jazz veteran or a budding musician just starting to explore the world of holiday jazz, this guide will equip you with the knowledge needed to navigate the world of The Real Christmas Book and discover a treasure trove of festive jazz standards.
What is the Real Christmas Book?
The Real Christmas Book is a unique fake book specifically designed for jazz musicians seeking a collection of Christmas standards and contemporary holiday tunes. It’s essentially a compilation of sheet music, featuring arrangements of popular carols and holiday songs, all adapted with sophisticated jazz chord changes and harmonies. Unlike traditional Christmas songbooks, The Real Christmas Book caters to the needs of jazz musicians, providing them with a repertoire of familiar melodies presented in a format that allows for improvisation and creative interpretation.
Think of it as a musical treasure chest for jazz musicians during the holiday season. It provides a foundation for exploring classic Christmas melodies in a new and exciting way, enabling musicians to inject their own personal style and creativity into these beloved tunes. The Real Christmas Book offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation, allowing jazz musicians to celebrate the festive spirit while showcasing their improvisational skills and musicality.
History of the Real Christmas Book
The Real Christmas Book, much like its namesake, the Real Book, emerged from the underground world of jazz musicians. The origins of the Real Christmas Book are shrouded in some mystery, but it is widely believed to have been compiled and distributed among jazz circles in a similar fashion as the original Real Book – through informal networks of musicians who shared and copied the arrangements. The exact date of its creation remains unclear, but it is thought to have appeared sometime in the late 20th century, gaining popularity among jazz musicians seeking a comprehensive collection of Christmas standards in a format that was both familiar and accessible.
Over time, the Real Christmas Book gained recognition and widespread use, eventually attracting the attention of established music publishers. Hal Leonard, a prominent music publishing company, officially published the Real Christmas Book, making it readily available to a broader audience. This marked a significant shift for the book, moving it from a clandestine collection shared among jazz musicians to a commercially available resource. The official publication by Hal Leonard brought the Real Christmas Book into the mainstream, solidifying its place as a go-to resource for jazz musicians seeking to perform Christmas classics in a jazz context;
Content of the Real Christmas Book
The Real Christmas Book offers a diverse selection of holiday music, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. It includes a carefully curated mix of traditional carols and contemporary Christmas songs, all arranged in a sophisticated jazz style. From the classic “Jingle Bells” to more modern tunes like “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” the book provides a comprehensive repertoire for jazz musicians seeking to perform holiday music.
The arrangements in the Real Christmas Book are designed to be both playable and engaging. They feature creative chord changes, interesting melodic variations, and tasteful improvisational opportunities, allowing musicians to showcase their individual style and creativity. The inclusion of both familiar and less common Christmas tunes ensures that there is something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned jazz veteran or a budding musician looking to expand your holiday repertoire.
The Real Christmas Book is not just a collection of melodies; it is a resource for musicians who want to explore the rich history and diverse styles of Christmas music within a jazz context. Its content reflects the evolving landscape of Christmas music, showcasing the enduring appeal of traditional carols while embracing the innovative spirit of modern jazz arrangements.
Key Features of the Real Christmas Book
The Real Christmas Book stands out as a valuable resource for jazz musicians due to its key features that enhance both playability and musical expression. One of its most prominent features is the inclusion of sophisticated jazz chord changes, providing musicians with a framework for improvisation and creative exploration. These chord changes are designed to be both challenging and rewarding, allowing musicians to delve deeper into the harmonic possibilities of Christmas music.
Another defining characteristic is the book’s user-friendly format. The Real Christmas Book adopts the familiar layout of the original Real Book, ensuring that musicians can easily navigate its content and find the tunes they need. This ease of access makes it a practical tool for rehearsals, gigs, and personal practice. The book’s compact size and durable binding further contribute to its usability, making it a reliable companion for musicians on the go.
The Real Christmas Book is also noteworthy for its comprehensiveness. It features a wide range of Christmas classics, from traditional carols to contemporary hits, catering to diverse musical tastes. This breadth of selection allows musicians to create a varied and engaging setlist, incorporating both familiar favorites and lesser-known gems. Whether you’re playing a solo gig or a full band performance, the Real Christmas Book provides a wealth of options to choose from.
Arrangements and Chord Changes
The Real Christmas Book distinguishes itself with its carefully crafted arrangements and sophisticated chord changes that elevate traditional Christmas melodies into fresh, jazz-infused interpretations. The book’s arrangers have a keen understanding of both the classic appeal of Christmas songs and the improvisational spirit of jazz, seamlessly blending these elements to create arrangements that are both familiar and exciting.
The chord changes featured in the Real Christmas Book are designed to challenge and inspire jazz musicians. They often depart from the standard progressions of the original melodies, incorporating unexpected harmonies and voicings that create a sense of depth and complexity. These chord changes encourage musicians to explore new melodic and harmonic possibilities, fostering creativity and pushing the boundaries of traditional Christmas music.
The book’s arrangements also reflect the stylistic diversity of jazz, ranging from smooth and soulful to energetic and bebop-inspired. This variety allows musicians to choose arrangements that best suit their personal style and the context of their performance. Whether you prefer a mellow, introspective approach or a high-energy, improvisational style, the Real Christmas Book offers arrangements that cater to a wide range of tastes and musical sensibilities.
Song Selection
The Real Christmas Book boasts a diverse repertoire that caters to both traditionalists and those seeking a more contemporary twist on holiday classics. The book features a wide range of Christmas carols, from the beloved “Silent Night” and “Jingle Bells” to lesser-known gems like “O Holy Night” and “The First Noel.” These traditional selections provide a foundation for the book’s repertoire, ensuring that musicians can access familiar melodies and harmonies.
Beyond the traditional carols, the Real Christmas Book includes a selection of contemporary holiday songs that have become popular favorites. These tunes, such as “White Christmas,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!,” offer a modern perspective on the holiday season, reflecting the evolving musical landscape of Christmas music.
The book’s song selection also includes a number of original compositions, written specifically for the Real Christmas Book. These original pieces showcase the creativity and talent of the arrangers, providing musicians with fresh and unique material to explore. This mix of traditional carols, contemporary classics, and original compositions ensures that the Real Christmas Book offers a rich and varied musical experience, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
Editions and Instruments
The Real Christmas Book is available in various editions to accommodate different instruments and musical preferences. The most common edition is the C Edition, designed for instruments in the key of C, such as the piano, guitar, and some wind instruments. This edition is the most widely used and readily available, making it a popular choice for musicians playing in a variety of settings.
For musicians playing instruments in different keys, such as the trumpet (Bb) or saxophone (Eb), there are dedicated editions available. These editions transcribe the music to the specific key of the instrument, ensuring that musicians can play the arrangements comfortably and accurately. The availability of different editions allows musicians to access the Real Christmas Book regardless of their instrument, expanding its reach and appeal.
In addition to the standard instrumental editions, the Real Christmas Book also comes in a Bass Clef edition, specifically tailored for bass players. This edition transposes the music to the bass clef, making it easier for bass players to read and play the arrangements. This specialized edition caters to the unique needs of bass players, ensuring they have access to the same repertoire as other instrumentalists.
Finding the Real Christmas Book
Obtaining a copy of The Real Christmas Book can be done through various channels, both online and offline. One option is to purchase a physical copy from reputable music retailers like Hal Leonard, which publishes the official edition. These retailers offer a wide selection of instruments and editions, ensuring that musicians can find the version that best suits their needs.
Another way to acquire The Real Christmas Book is through online platforms like Amazon or eBay. These platforms offer both new and used copies, allowing musicians to find deals or specific editions that may be harder to find in physical stores. Online marketplaces also provide access to international sellers, expanding the options available to musicians worldwide.
For those seeking a more affordable option, digital downloads of The Real Christmas Book are also available online. These digital versions provide a convenient and cost-effective alternative to physical copies, allowing musicians to access the music instantly and easily. While digital versions may not provide the same tactile experience as a physical book, they offer a practical solution for musicians on a budget.
Online Resources
The internet offers a plethora of resources for those seeking information and even access to The Real Christmas Book. Online communities like Reddit and forums dedicated to jazz music often feature discussions about The Real Christmas Book, providing valuable insights and tips for musicians. These platforms can be a great source for finding specific editions, discussing arrangements, and connecting with other musicians who use the book.
Websites like Scribd and PDFDrive offer free downloads of The Real Christmas Book in various formats, including PDF. While these resources may not be officially sanctioned by the publisher, they provide an accessible option for musicians who are looking for a free or low-cost way to obtain the book. However, it’s crucial to be aware of copyright considerations and ensure that any downloaded materials are obtained legally.
Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter can also be valuable resources for finding information about The Real Christmas Book. Many musicians and jazz enthusiasts share their experiences with the book, offer insights into its arrangements, and even post links to online resources. Following relevant groups and individuals can provide a constant stream of information and updates related to The Real Christmas Book.
Legal Considerations
The distribution and sharing of The Real Christmas Book in PDF format raise important legal considerations, primarily related to copyright infringement. While the book itself is a compilation of arrangements and compositions, many of these works are protected by copyright. Sharing or distributing unauthorized copies of The Real Christmas Book without proper licensing can be a violation of copyright law.
It’s essential to remember that downloading or sharing unauthorized copies of copyrighted material can result in legal consequences, including fines and even criminal charges. Musicians who are considering using The Real Christmas Book should ensure that they obtain a legally licensed copy from a reputable source. This can be done through online retailers, music stores, or directly from the publisher, Hal Leonard.
The Real Christmas Book is a valuable resource for jazz musicians, but it’s crucial to use it responsibly and ethically. Understanding and respecting copyright law is essential for musicians to avoid legal issues and ensure they are using the book appropriately. If you are unsure about the legality of a particular source or method of obtaining The Real Christmas Book, it is always best to consult with a legal professional.
The Real Christmas Book has become a staple for jazz musicians seeking to expand their holiday repertoire. With its collection of classic carols and contemporary Christmas tunes, it offers a diverse range of material for performances and jam sessions. The book’s sophisticated arrangements and user-friendly format make it a valuable tool for both seasoned professionals and aspiring jazz musicians.
While the availability of The Real Christmas Book in PDF format may be tempting, it’s crucial to remember the importance of respecting copyright laws; Downloading or sharing unauthorized copies can lead to legal repercussions. Musicians seeking to use this resource should prioritize obtaining a legally licensed copy from reputable sources.
In conclusion, The Real Christmas Book is a valuable resource for jazz musicians looking to add a festive touch to their performances. By obtaining a legally licensed copy and adhering to copyright regulations, musicians can enjoy the benefits of this popular fake book while contributing to the ethical and sustainable use of music.
Further Resources
For those seeking to delve deeper into the world of jazz and Christmas music, there are several valuable resources available beyond The Real Christmas Book. Exploring these additional materials can enhance your understanding of the genre and provide inspiration for your own musical endeavors.
Online platforms like Scribd and PDFDrive offer a vast library of musical scores and publications, including Christmas-themed fake books and arrangements. These resources can be accessed for free or through subscription services. Additionally, websites dedicated to jazz music, such as AllAboutJazz and JazzTimes, provide news, reviews, and articles that explore the history and evolution of the genre, including its connection to the holiday season.
For a more hands-on approach, consider attending jazz concerts or workshops. Local music schools and community centers often host events featuring renowned musicians and provide opportunities for aspiring jazz players to develop their skills. By immersing yourself in the world of jazz music, you can gain a deeper appreciation for its nuances and discover new ways to express your musical creativity during the festive season.