autumn leaves –UFbP # 12

ok this one is one that i have done before and it was one of my first video entries (thanks to Jason Tagg) on the internet.  i thought that i needed to update the song using my Guitar Pro 6 software as it is more capable than versions in the past, and also because my musical understanding since 2006 has grown.  

“autumn leaves” is also one of those classic songs by Johnny Mercer that every jazzer (Beebop, Standard, big band, Country) band or performer needs to cover, and there are many great versions out there.  i have 5 versions on my i-pod alone not to mention the arrangements i have on other obsolete media (no 8-tracks that is before my time even though i remember them) .  

i cannot tell you how many people e-mail me about this arrangement since Jason created that video on a November night in Somerville, and the positive comments that i have received. this is probably my classic piece, although my performance that night was stiff as my fingers were freezing and i was a bit nervous as i was performing in Ukulele Noir number 6 that night.

it is really funny i can only play this song during Autumn – it has to be well in to September and then i stop playing it in November.  so you have most of November to master this one (and i will give you to December 15) and then you will need to put it away.

so i’ve decided to re record this one which is given below.  i have added a solo that has only been added in the past couple of years (unfortunately i cannot tab this).  i play this close up so those skilled in the art of ukulele can pick off what i am doing.  i also have my original and a Jazzukes Demonstrated video (which i had completely forgot that i created).   i must apologize for sound quality, i really need to get a new camera (with a way better microphone)

    if you want the basic arrangement and exercise basic arrangement can be made available to you for $ 2 through paypal to jazzukes@verizon.net. you will get the tab arrangement, a midi file for timing.  or you could just make your arrangement from the chart to the right (i will not be upset).

    those who get my arrangement will notice a few things about intertwining the melody notes and the chords in the main body of the song.  if you notice i keep the chord form fingered and pick the notes of the melody in that chord shape.  this allows for some rhythm chord passes on the off or rest beats.  also it allows you to pick some of the other notes in the chord shape to add embellishing notes. 

     as a further disclaimer to my arrangement, i cannot include everything that i do in this video (note bending, rhythm bending, embellish notes, trills).  that would take me forever to put together.  i have only included some of these elements.

    thank you for your consideration. 

The original – Filmed by Jason Tagg – Midnight Ukulele Disco

Autumn Leaves - Jazzukes Demonstrated – this explains some of the piece.