Listen "Conception and George Shearing "
Episode Synopsis
(68) “Conception” and George Shearing Standards Rating 5 Difficulty Rating 9 George Shearing, a blind British jazz pianist and composer, is celebrated for his significant contributions to jazz, particularly his distinctive harmonic style. Born in 1919 in London, Shearing's musical journey began early, despite his blindness, and his exceptional talents led him to international acclaim. In the 1940s, he moved to the United States, where his work, including the creation of the George Shearing Quintet, solidified his place in jazz history. His compositions, including "Lullaby of Birdland" and "Conception," are revered for their complex harmonies and innovative structures. "Conception," composed in 1949, exemplifies Shearing's bebop influence and harmonic creativity. This challenging 44-bar composition is notorious for its intricate melodies filled with accidentals, fast chromatic movements, and frequent key shifts. Set in the difficult key of Db, it presents a formidable challenge for any jazz musician. The tune's harmony is dense, and the melody is note-heavy, making it one of the hardest melodies in the Real Book. George Shearing Miles Davis Spotify Playlist
More episodes of the podcast The Jazz Real Book
Ecclusiastics and Charles Mingus
28/12/2025
Easy To Love and Gene Ammons
21/12/2025
John Goldsby Interview
18/12/2025
Easy Living and Paul Desmond
14/12/2025
Mauricio Morales and Adam Hersch Interview
10/12/2025
Easter Parade and Roy Eldridge
07/12/2025
Alan Broadbent Interview
03/12/2025
Always and Irving Berlin
30/11/2025
ZARZA We are Zarza, the prestigious firm behind major projects in information technology.