10 Easy Gypsy Jazz Songs That Make You Sound Like a Pro, Even If You're Not

The unique style of gypsy jazz is gaining major attention from the music community. Learn how to play the top tunes in this genre and what makes them unique.
Every now and then a music style comes along and finds its way into the mainstream.
Right now, gypsy jazz is hot, and if you are a guitar player, at any level of experience, you just have to give this style of music a try.
As you would expect, there is a style and manner of play that you will need to adjust to. This is what makes gypsy jazz guitar something for everybody. Keep reading for some great examples of easy songs you can learn on your gypsy journey.
But first, the question that is probably already forming on your lips.

What is Gypsy Jazz?

Started by a Romani guitarist by the name of Django Reinhardt, gypsy jazz got its name from its creator's origins. The classic gypsy swing style (acoustic, all strings, no drums) was conserved among gypsies in Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands as a folk style in homage to Django Reinhardt. After Reinhardt met violinist Stéphane Grappelli, they played together informally when they were not playing dance music with a small orchestra at the Hôtel Claridge in Paris during the summer of 1934.
Using influences of both jazz and swing it was widely played among the gypsy communities until Reinhardt shared his music with the world. The turn of the century saw a sudden surge in the popularity of Reinhardt's musical styling. French jazz vocalist Tatiana Eva-Marie performs gypsy-jazz music combined with swing music in Brooklyn, New York. The city became a gathering place for artists from around the world and The Hot Club’s unique sound of gypsy jazz reflects this inter-wartime collection of cultures.
Still largely unchanged from its original influences, gypsy swing - as it is also known - has remained strong as its own musical genre. That being said, how can you put words to any definition of music and genre. So much is open to individual interpretation, especially a music style like jazz.
While some believe that true jazz Gypsy music is that of Reinhardt himself, there are many others that simply use the term to cover any jazz played by or passed on through those of Romane/Romani lineage. Reinhardt had moved to an electric guitar sound influenced by bebop. His sons, Lousson and Babik, played in a style influenced by American jazz.
Contemporary gypsy jazz musicians include Gonzalo Bergara, George Cole, Angelo Debarre, Pearl Django, John Jorgenson, Tim Kliphuis, Biréli Lagrène, Robin Nolan, Stochelo Rosenberg, Paulus Schäfer, Joscho Stephan, and Frank Vignola. Contemporary Manouche instrumentalists in the Django Reinhardt and Jazz Hot Tradition, as heard annually at the Festival Django Reinhardt at Samois-sur-Seine, France, include Django's grandson David Reinhardt, Dorado Schmitt, Tchavolo Schmitt, Jon Larsen, Angelo Debarre, Babik Reinhardt, John Jorgenson, Samson Schmitt, Stephane Wrembel, Biréli Lagrène, and Florin Niculescu.
It is the latter definition that we will use for this article. With that defined, let's take a look at some of the best beginner gypsy jazz songs.

Getting that Authentic Jazz Gypsy Guitar Sound

There are no drums in true gypsy jazz standards. This means that the onus falls on the rhythm guitar to replace the more commonly heard jazz drums which are a distinct percussive technique, "la pompe(right-hand rhythm)". Also gone are the saxophones and trumpets.
A violin is a necessary tool, but at the end of the day, the real sound and soul of gypsy swing lives in the sound of the guitar.
For beginner gypsy jazz students it is important to understand that you can only really use one sort of guitar to truly call yourself a practitioner of the genre.
Out of all of the different guitar styles, the best is the Selma Maccaferri guitar. This gives the music is distinct crisp and metallic sound, which is part of what sets this jazz manouche apart from the rest of the bunch.

1. Belleville

A Django Reinhardt hit from the 1940s this piece is a chord progression number that has a clever F# modulation right from D major.

2. Dark Eyes

Considered by many to be an anthem for the gypsy communities, the roots of this song can be traced back to Russia.
This tune holds great appeal to novices as it is a relatively easy piece to learn but has a sound that is unforgettable.

3. Minor Swing

Much like Dark Eyes, there is a classic feel to Minor Swing. One of those anthems that everybody knows. With only three chords it is a fantastic beginner's piece with brings with it a sense of satisfaction as you explore your arpeggios.

4. For Sephora

A modern song with a melody that will stick in your head from the first time you hear it. A great B section only adds to the overall beginner's appeal of this swinging tune.

5. Troublant Bolero

The name of this piece gives a nice tribute to its inspiration. A fun Latin rhythm played in the rather unique choice of E major. The opportunity for open string play during the solo section adds a certain appeal to novices just starting out.

6. Nuages

Without question, the most well known and popular of Django Reinhardt's pieces. The easy to handle melody is coupled with chord changes that leave little room of artistic interpretation. With options to play it in both F and G major, this tune is much loved by all of those who enjoy easy gypsy jazz

7. I'll See You in My Dreams

A classic tune that is even taught in online classes, it is a great example of gypsy jazz music, Reinhardt style. Yet, this simple song has one unique element, in so far as it is played in a chord other than the one that opens it.

8. Coquette

A bouncy number that carries great swing when it gets going. An older number with a long history of popular renditions, it was actually first released back in 1928 by Guy Lombardo.

9. Minor Blues

What is better for beginner gypsy jazz guitarists than a  song that uses minimal chords, which come in an easy to remember chord progression.
A naturally slow number it is also a great learning song for those looking to add some improvisation into their musical choices.

10. Sweet Georgia Brown

A traditional jazz song that is popular with all beginners, and a fun way to master those dominant seventh arpeggios. To give the tune that something special you can use trio-tone substitutions on the chords. Try it out and you will hear the difference for yourself.

Gypsy Jazz Like All Music is in the Ears of the Listener

At the end of the day, much like any music, gypsy jazz will be something that speaks to some above others. Music is art. Art is something that's not done out of a feeling of obligation, but rather a passion.
It is when passion and obsession mix that true talents can be born. You should never start playing something just because its easier than the next, or because somebody told you to do so.
The above list is a wonderful starting point for those that feel genuinely drawn to the genre and the soul of the beat.
Is that you? If so then we would love to hear from you. Get in touch to learn more about learning how to play easy gypsy jazz.

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12 Great Jazz Piano Songs That Are Easy to Learn

Jazz piano songs are smooth and soulful pieces of music. But that's no reason to be intimidated by the genre. Here are some easy and beautiful jazz songs you can learn on the piano.
Are you new to piano but are beyond the beginner stages?
You're probably interested in learning advanced songs. If you're a fan of jazz sheet music, you may think learning jazz piano songs is difficult. But there are great jazz piano songs for all piano players to learn.
There are certain jazz songs that are easy piano play and are remembered by everyone. You can easily jam them yourself and team up with other musicians to play them. And of course, these songs are extremely fun to play.
Whether you're taking jazz piano lessons or are self-taught, here are the 12 jazz piano songs you should learn now. These songs will improve your piano playing skills while you learn your favorite jazz songs, watch a few of the piano tutorial videos to help you out a bit.

1. Snow White - "Someday My Prince Will Come"

You probably know this song from the Disney movie Snow White and the Seven Dwarves. But this song was reinvented in jazz form by many jazz musicians.
You can easily take the vocal leads and convert them to the piano, such as what Chick Corea did.
The striking feature of this song is the melody. But hearing the Disney version, you can tell the varying notes isn't an easy song to sing. Therefore, it's quite difficult to play on the piano.
The lead melodies captivate anyone who hears this song. But unlike the Disney song, the jazz piano version gives this song more complexity. This makes this song fun but challenging.

2. Ella Fitzgerald - "All the Things You Are"

If you're unsure where to start with jazz piano, always start with the classics. "All the Things You Are" is a perfect starting piece. Dating back to 1939, this song was played by Jerome Kern.
This song is the epitome of classic jazz composition. Chord progressions and other dynamic changes make this song challenging. But everything flows so naturally, so it's complex yet beautiful.
Most beginners find the intro difficult. But once you get past the challenging beginning, you get a better feel for the song. After you practice this song, the chord changes and other dynamics make more sense.

3. Herbie Hancock - "Dolphin Dance"

You can't say "jazz piano legends" without mentioning Herbie Hancock. This is why his tune "Dolphin Dance" is on this list. Hancock is an influential pianist for his complex but individualistic writing style.
This song goes through a variety of chord changes but always manages to keep its melody. You're completely hooked throughout the song because it's unpredictable. There are also many intricate parts and parts that slow down.
Practicing this song not only enhances your piano playing skills but also improves your songwriting.

4. Bill Evans - "Waltz for Debbie"

"Waltz for Debbie" is one of the most beautiful jazz piano pieces in history.
Performed by Bill Evans, this song is a classic. This song is perfect for a beginner and is constantly revisited by expert pianists.
This song doesn't do anything too complex but the song is enjoyable enough to play. The secret is the tune. The tune is so strong that it sticks with you. This makes this song easy to get stuck in your head so you'll recognize each note.
Last but not least, this song is still fresh today. This is why Evans was such a notable pianist for his time. This song is an example of modern jazz.

5. Thelonious Monk - "Round Midnight"

Thelonious Monk is one of the most influential jazz pianists and composers.
"Round Midnight" is one of his most well-known songs. This song has been covered by just about every great jazz pianist. And it's a perfect song to learn on piano.
"Round Midnight" isn't as complex as other jazz piano songs. It has a strong melody that you can easily follow. This song is very calm but has enough complexities to challenge a beginner piano player.
From the beginning to the end of the song, "Round Midnight" follows a distinctive but infectious tune. After playing this song, you can understand how Monk has influenced many pianists.

6. Red Garland - "On a Clear Day"

This song is recommended for beginner jazz pianists because it isn't your traditional jazz song. There's a lot of swing influence that makes this song a lot of fun to play. The swing influence gives this classic tune a fun and upbeat vibe.
Legendary jazz pianist Red Garland performs this song and is a timeless tune.
The groove of the rhythm section and the fun piano melodies makes this song intoxicating.
This song is relatively simple to play but is fun enough for advanced jazz pianists.
This song is easy to learn for beginners but is challenging enough to improve their skill.

7. Ray Brown Trio - "Sweet Georgia Brown"

Back in 1925, Ray Brown Trio performed "Sweet Georgia Brown" with Gene Harris on piano. This song gives jazz its classic sound but makes the genre more fun.
Even with a dominating rhythm section, Harris' piano melodies stand out. This song is completely upbeat but still relaxing. It's an easy song to play but it's easy to get sucked into the song as you play.
The piano parts are polished and you'll feel great as you learn to play this song.
In this song, Harris uses piano styles from swing, gospel and blues to create a unique feeling. This makes "Sweet Georgia Brown" one of the most unique songs in jazz. If you want to excel as a jazz pianist, this song is a must.

8. Duke Ellington - "Take the "A" Train"

The famous jazz standard "Take the "A" Train" was written by Billy Strayhorn, and was performed by Duke Ellington, who regularly performed it with his orchestra.
This song was also recorded by countless other artists, including Ella Fitzgerald. The song is about the new subway in New York in the 1930s!

9. Dave Brubeck - "Take Five"

This song was composed by Paul Desmond for the Dave Brubeck Quartet during 1959, in which he uses saxophone. Two years later it became a surprise hit and the biggest-selling jazz single ever.
The quartet recorded the tune in two takes, and when it was done, Paul Desmond thought the song was a throwaway — so much so that he once joked about using his entire share of royalties from the song to buy a new electric shaver. The title "Take Five" was Brubeck's idea which became the A side of a 45 record.

10. Erroll Garner - "Misty"

The pianist and composer who came to fame during what is often called the swing era of Jazz in the 1940s was Erroll Garner with his style of piano playing encapsulated the stride technique of earlier pianists but it was Garner’s abundant virtuosity and lyrical fluency that characterized his performances.
Misty is a jazz standard written in 1954 by pianist Erroll Garner. He composed it as an instrumental on the traditional 32-bar format and recorded it for the album Contrasts (1955).

11. Duke Ellington - "Satin Doll"

This song was also written by  Duke Ellington last 1953.  Its chord progression is well known for its unusual use of chords and opening with a ii-V-I turnaround.
Duke Ellington used "Satin Doll" as the closing number in most of his concerts. Wherein it makes as a modest hit, entering the pop charts in June and rising to number twenty-seven.

12. Joseph Kosma - "Autumn Leaves"

This is a 1945 popular song and jazz standard composed by Joseph Kosma with original lyrics by Jacques Prévert in French, and later by Johnny Mercer in English.
This song was listed as a number 1 best-seller in the US Billboard charts of 1955 by an instrumental version of the pianist Roger Williams.

Time to Learn These Jazz Piano Songs

If you want a unique challenge to your piano playing abilities, learning jazz piano is an enjoyable way to improve your piano skills. If you're unsure which songs you should learn, these jazz songs are perfect for any piano player to learn. Jazz piano makes ample use of improvisation, polyrhythms, syncopation and swung note, as well as aspects of European harmony, American popular music, the brass band tradition, and African musical elements such as blue notes and ragtime.
These songs are all fun to play but offer unique challenges. They're well-rounded and can help you improve on many areas of piano playing. From complex chord progressions to simple melodies, all of these songs are different but amazing.
Do you need piano lessons? Take a look at our piano lessons.

More Jazz Piano Songs

The post 12 Great Jazz Piano Songs That Are Easy to Learn first appeared on Merriam Pianos

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