Fake book
Introduction
A "fake book" is a compilation of musical lead sheets intended to help a performer quickly learn and perform a wide array of songs. These books are primarily used by jazz musicians but have found utility across various musical genres. A lead sheet typically includes the melody, chord symbols, and sometimes lyrics, providing the essential elements needed to perform a song. The term "fake" in this context refers to the musician's ability to "fake" their way through a song by improvising based on the provided information.
History and Development
The concept of the fake book emerged in the early 20th century, coinciding with the rise of jazz music. Jazz musicians, known for their improvisational skills, required a quick and efficient way to learn new songs. The first known fake books were handwritten collections of songs shared among musicians. These early versions were often illegal, as they contained copyrighted material reproduced without permission.
The most famous of these early collections is the "Real Book," which appeared in the 1970s and became a staple among jazz musicians. Despite its unofficial status, the Real Book was widely circulated and became the standard reference for jazz standards. The Real Book's success led to the proliferation of other fake books, covering a wide range of musical styles.
Structure and Content
Fake books are designed for ease of use and portability. They typically contain hundreds of songs, each presented on a single page. The lead sheet format includes:
- **Melody Line**: The melody is usually written in standard musical notation. This line provides the primary tune of the song, which can be embellished or altered by the performer.
- **Chord Symbols**: Above the melody line, chord symbols indicate the harmonic structure of the song. These symbols allow musicians to construct the appropriate chords on their instruments, providing harmonic support for the melody.
- **Lyrics**: Some fake books include lyrics, although this is not always the case. When present, lyrics are usually written below the melody line.
Fake books do not include detailed arrangements or instrumental parts, leaving much to the performer's interpretation and improvisation.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
The production and distribution of fake books have historically been fraught with legal challenges. Many early fake books were produced without obtaining the necessary licenses from copyright holders, leading to issues of copyright infringement. This illegal status did not deter musicians from using these resources, as the demand for accessible and comprehensive song collections was high.
In response to these challenges, publishers began producing legitimate fake books, obtaining the necessary licenses to reproduce copyrighted material. These authorized versions often include additional features, such as more accurate transcriptions and supplementary information about the songs.
Impact on Music Education
Fake books have had a significant impact on music education, particularly in the realm of jazz studies. They serve as an invaluable resource for students learning to improvise and understand chord progressions. The lead sheet format encourages musicians to develop their interpretative skills, as they must make decisions about how to perform the song based on minimal information.
Music educators often use fake books to teach students about music theory, chord construction, and improvisation techniques. By working with fake books, students gain practical experience in applying theoretical concepts to real-world musical situations.
Variations and Modern Adaptations
While jazz remains the primary genre associated with fake books, modern adaptations have expanded their use to other musical styles, including pop, rock, and classical music. These genre-specific fake books cater to the needs of musicians in various fields, providing a diverse repertoire for performance and study.
Digital technology has also influenced the evolution of fake books. Online platforms and mobile applications offer digital versions of fake books, allowing musicians to access vast libraries of songs on their devices. These digital resources often include interactive features, such as playback options and transposable chord charts, enhancing the utility of fake books in contemporary music practice.
Conclusion
Fake books continue to be an essential tool for musicians across genres, providing a foundation for performance and improvisation. Their adaptability and comprehensive nature make them a valuable resource for both professional musicians and students. As music continues to evolve, fake books will likely remain a vital component of musical education and practice.