Sahib Shihab's Solo on Straight No Chaser Transcription

If this is your first time hearing Sahib Shihab, make sure it isn't your last! He played with all the greats and was indeed a great himself, if a little overlooked in the eyes of history. Here he has the distinction of recording the alto saxophone solo on the original recording of Thelonious Monk's era-defining composition "Straight No Chaser."

Buy My Book

Thelonious Monk's Straight No Chaser

Original Key: Bb Major

Nowadays this classic jazz blues is normally played in the key of F major, but Monk originally composed this tune in the key of Bb major. Released on 'Genius of Modern Music Vol.2,' the melody has a completely different resonance on the alto saxophone.

Sahib Shihab

Shihab's characteristic laid back feel and immensely expressive range of articulation and attack makes this concise little vignette of a solo the perfect choice for students who wish to start learning the language of bop. His solo is effortlessly melodic, full of tasteful embellishments and uses the whole range of the instrument, including a low B natural. Shihab's favour of the low end of the alto saxophone makes him a favourite of mine.

In just one short chorus, Shihab uses a great variety of classic bebop rhythms and melodic devices including note enclosures, turns and especially creative use of chromatic approach notes. Each bar is a goldmine for any student wishing to absorb concise vocabulary.

PDF Sheet Music Download
Click Here to Download the Transcription of Shihab's Solo on Straight No Chaser

Try My New Sheet Music Books!

Are you looking for new music for you or your child? Why not try one of my new books? These are It Was A Sound (Saxophone) and Mais Yeah! (Clarinet) Both books are aimed at children, but either are suitable for adults too. They are the first two books in my 'Jazz Tributes' series, a collection of music from Grades 1-5 standard for students to play, paired with biographical stories about the book's subject.