The Jazz Theory Book - Mark Levine

  Written in the language of the working jazz musician, this book is easy to read and user-friendly. At the same time, it is the most comprehensive study of jazz harmony and theory ever published.

  "The Jazz Theory Book" takes the student from the most basic techniques such as chord construction and the II-V-I progression through scale theory, the blues, "I've Got Rhythm" changes, slash chords, the bebop and pentatonic scales, how to read a lead sheet and memorize tunes and a study of reharmonization that is almost a book in itself. Satisfaction guaranteed or money will be refunded.

 Mark Levine has worked with Bobby Hutcherson, Cal Tjader, Joe Henderson, Woody Shaw, and many other jazz greats.

Endorsements

There's a Mark Levine book called 'The Jazz Theory Book.' I would suggest getting it and doing two pages a day just to study it and learn to read some basic piano, even if you can only pick out one note at a time. As you work through it you'll notice the way you hear and the way you sing will automatically start to change. It's like looking at the world and not knowing it's all blurry---you can make your way through, but then you get glasses and everything gets clearer and clearer. I think that's really important.
Esperanza Spalding

Man, I'm really happy to see so many folks (rightly) acknowledging your books and music here on Facebook. As it should be. The information is all there ~ a gift!
Joe Locke

This could be the single finest music book of any type I've ever seen. It's certainly the best explanation of the mechanics of jazz, and the amazing depth of the content is matched by the care and accuracy of the presentation. An invaluable resource for all improvising musicians regardless of instrument.
Bass Player Magazine

Mark has done it again. The Jazz Theory Book has the clarity that most pedagogical books strive for. This book seems to have left no stone unturned in what one should know about the inner sanctum of jazz theory. The most fruitful information is generally derived from the source and that is the essence of this book. This book is connected to the music of our Jazz Masters. You can't get any better than that. Even the mature musician will find information here. Truly a magnificent accomplishment.
Rufus Reid

Mark has done it again and the music world is grateful. This book will help move the understanding of jazz theory and harmony into the 21st century.
Jamey Aebersold