Take Five is probably the most recognisable jazz tune on saxophone for the general public.  It certainly is the most successful jazz ‘single’ and catapulted Dave Brubeck’s band with Paul Desmond on Alto saxophone to world-wide fame.  We are going to transcribe ‘Take Five’ for our May ‘Transcription Project’.

Make sure you pay attention to the following.

1.  DO NOT under ANY circumstances go hunting for a lead sheet!

2. TAKE YOUR TIME – even just one bar, accurately played is a worthwhile exercise.

3.  LISTEN CAREFULLY – particularly to Desmond’s tone, it has often been copied but rarely bettered.

4.  Tenor players you will need to either play the bridge, or ‘B’ section down an octave or if you’re feeling brave in the Altissimo register.