In "Playing for Singers," seasoned accompanist Mike Greensill leverages his extensive experience to thoroughly examine the intricacies of the accompanist's craft as it pertains to the "Great American Songbook." This resource covers essential techniques for accompanying vocalists, making it invaluable for everyone from novice jazz pianists to seasoned professionals seeking to refine their skills for upcoming performances.
Key topics include:
- Techniques for solo piano accompaniment for singers.
- The dynamics of duo and trio accompaniment, including the integration of bass and drums.
- The nuances of "out of tempo" accompaniment.
- The accompanist's role as an arranger/composer, including the necessary skills for creating clear and visually appealing charts.
- The responsibilities of the accompanist as a music director, encompassing tasks such as conducting, leading rehearsals, and assisting in the organization of vocal performances.
- Insights from renowned accompanists, sharing philosophies and practical tips from industry veterans like Norman Simmons, Jimmy Rowles, Bill Charlap, Christian Jacob, Tedd Firth, and Sir Richard Rodney Bennett.
The book spans 121 pages and includes numerous musical examples.
Endorsements highlight its significance:
"In a landscape filled with music literature, this book stands out for its insightful and accessible approach to accompaniment. Mike's expertise fills a crucial gap in understanding how to effectively accompany singers." — Michael Feinstein
"Mike Greensill's 'Playing for Singers' is an essential and comprehensive resource that deserves a place in every accompanist's library. Bravo, Mike!" — Lee Musiker (accompanist to Tony Bennett)
"Drawing from his extensive experience, Mr. Greensill offers an invaluable exploration of the skills required to become a sought-after vocal accompanist. This book illuminates a previously underexplored area of musical technique." — Larry Dunlap (accompanist to Dame Cleo Lane, Mark Murphy, Bobbe Norris)
"Mike has created a long-overdue guide that opens the world of vocal accompaniment to pianists of all styles and skill levels. His decades of experience as a top-tier accompanist and arranger make him uniquely qualified to write this book." — Ted Firth (accompanist to Maureen McGovern, Tom Wopat, Carol Sloane, Hillary Kole, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Marilyn Maye)
"Mike has masterfully analyzed nearly every aspect of collaboration with artists, presenting it in a friendly and humorous manner. His well-structured chapters, enriched with quotes from leading accompanists, make this a must-read for aspiring music directors, arrangers, and pianists." — John McDaniel (Broadway musical director, conductor, and arranger)
"Mike Greensill's 'Playing for Singers' is a groundbreaking addition to the wealth of educational materials available for jazz musicians, revealing the secrets of great accompanists. Mike and his wife, vocalist Wesla Whitfield, are esteemed interpreters of the Great American Songbook." — Gary Foster (jazz recording artist)
"'Playing for Singers' offers a straightforward, artistically presented introduction to the Great American Songbook for pianists collaborating with vocalists, filled with musical examples and valuable insights." — Tamir Hendelman (accompanist to Barbra Streisand, Natalie Cole, Tierney Sutton)