Have you ever played the bossa nova “Chega De Saudade,” by the Brazilian composer Antonio Carlos Jobim? Jobim is more widely known for his song “The Girl From Ipanema,” and it’s worthwhile getting to know some of his other songs, like this one.
Also known as “No More Blues,” Chega De Saudade is unusual in that it’s not only twice the length of a “usual” AABA standard tune, but the fist half is in minor while the second half moves to the parallel major (D minor to D major). It’s almost as if Jobim composed two tunes based on the same material, one in minor and one in major, and then pasted them together. (By the way, the only reason I know the terms “parallel major and minor” is because I got them wrong on a college theory placement exam!!!)
It’s wonderful to follow the sound of the harmonies as the tune evolves, and the chord progression is also a lot of fun to improvise over. Be sure to establish a nice groove and then relax into your playing.
Here’s one way to play this great tune:
Enjoy the journey, and “let the music flow!”
Learn the 5 Essential Left Hand Techniques with my free ebook: Left Hand Techniques for Jazz Piano
You’ll also get my weekly jazz newsletter with practice tips and inspiration