Teach Yourself Jazz - online guidebook

For the beginning player, with sheet music samples

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JAZZ PIANO
71
Noted for his relentless 'Powerhouse' style of playing.
Scott Joplin (1896-1917). One of the pioneers of piano ragtime, and composer of innumerable pieces in the 'cake-walk' idiom, among them the famous Maple Leaf Rag.
Meade 'Lux' Lewis (born 1905). Follower of the style of Jimmy Yancey who persuaded him to drop the violin and take up piano at the age of 17. A subtle player with a great mastery of intricate cross-rhythms.
Clarence 'Pine Top' Smith (1900-1928). Creator of the famous 'Pine Top Boogie', and one of the pioneers of Boogie playing. He has an original style of great freshness and charm. Smith lived a bohemian existence in clubs and dives, and met an early death when he was shot in a dance-hall affray.
Thomas 'Fats' Waller (1904-1943). Born in Harlem, son of a negro Pastor, Waller was intended for the Church, but took up jazz piano at an early age, and became one of the greatest and best-loved entertainers at the piano. When still in his teens he met James P. Johnson who became his lifelong friend and trained him in jazz piano. Waller is noted for his powerful beat and for the infectious gaiety of his playing. He is the composer of Ain't MisbehavirC and other well-known tunes.
Jimmy Yancey (1898-1951). Great Boogie and Blues player who (among others) claimed to be the 'inventor' of Boogie. A delicate and colourful player with a highly individual style.