Charlie Parker
Alto Sax Solo on
Steeplechase

About

Charlie Parker opens the solo section on alto sax, stretching out for one chorus at approximately 176 BPM. Set within a swinging rhythmic framework, the 32-bar AABA form and the key of B♭, the solo navigates the chord changes with purpose. As a contrafact on "I Got Rhythm," the underlying harmony is well-trodden territory, giving the soloist a sturdy platform for creative exploration. As the first voice heard after the head, Parker sets the improvisational tone before passing to Miles Davis. The medium-up tempo is more relaxed than many of Parker's rhythm changes recordings, allowing for a more lyrical approach to the familiar changes.

Charlie Parker was 27 to 28 years old at the time.