The 16 Page PDF includes-Lead sheet with head and chord grids in TAB. Comp chord sheet to follow when comping and soloing. 4 pages of improve lesson content from video with 5 steps to follow for improvising. Mode tutorial sheet along with mode exercise in all 5 positions. Jam track with piano, bass and drums. Arangement- head 2 solo passes a comping pass while piano is soloing and head out. This is the perfect standard for the beginning jazz guitarist.
Best Guitar Versions
“Autumn Leaves” is a beautiful, iconic jazz standard that has been covered by countless musicians over the years. There are some amazing guitar versions of this piece, where players bring their unique flair to the song. Here are some of the best and most notable guitar renditions:
1. Joe Pass
- Album: Virtuoso (1973)
- Why it’s great: Joe Pass is a master of solo jazz guitar, and his version of “Autumn Leaves” showcases his ability to make complex jazz harmony sound effortless. His use of chord substitutions and fluid improvisation creates a deeply rich and beautiful version of the song. It’s a must-listen for any jazz guitarist.
2. Jim Hall
- Album: Jim Hall and Red Mitchell (1974)
- Why it’s great: Jim Hall’s approach to “Autumn Leaves” is understated yet emotionally powerful. He combines elegant phrasing with subtle harmonic innovations. His tone and touch on the guitar bring a unique sophistication to the piece, which makes it one of the most respected versions of this classic.
3. Grant Green
- Album: Idle Moments (1963)
- Why it’s great: Grant Green’s bluesy, soulful approach to jazz guitar is on full display here. His version of “Autumn Leaves” has a relaxed, groovy feel that’s perfect for the tune’s melancholic mood. Grant’s impeccable sense of rhythm and phrasing make this one of the standout guitar renditions of the song.
4. Kenny Burrell
- Album: Midnight Blue (1963)
- Why it’s great: Kenny Burrell brings a smooth, blues-inflected sound to his take on “Autumn Leaves.” The version is both soulful and sophisticated, with Burrell’s signature warm tone and impeccable timing. His phrasing and ability to navigate the song’s harmonic changes is exemplary.
5. Lenny Breau
- Album: The Best of Lenny Breau (1991)
- Why it’s great: Lenny Breau was known for his incredible ability to blend jazz with classical and country influences. His version of “Autumn Leaves” is a true showcase of his unique style, using complex harmonies and intricate fingerpicking techniques that make the song sound fresh and deeply expressive.
6. Charlie Byrd
- Album: Jazz Samba (1962)
- Why it’s great: Charlie Byrd was one of the pioneers of blending jazz with Brazilian music, and his take on “Autumn Leaves” reflects that rich sense of rhythm and melody. His playing is smooth, flowing, and beautifully articulated, making it an elegant rendition of the classic.
7. Tommy Emmanuel (Fingerstyle)
- Album: Endless Road (2012)
- Why it’s great: Tommy Emmanuel is known for his virtuosic fingerstyle guitar playing. His rendition of “Autumn Leaves” brings a more modern, intricate approach, with his expressive touch and unique phrasing. It’s a lovely, heartfelt version that brings out the beauty of the tune through his signature fingerpicking.
8. Julian Lage
- Album: Arclight (2016)
- Why it’s great: Julian Lage is a young virtuoso with an incredible ability to blend technical mastery with emotional depth. His version of “Autumn Leaves” is masterful, with his stunning ability to create an atmosphere through his phrasing and tone. His improvisations are fresh and original, giving the piece a modern twist.
9. Pat Metheny
- Album: The Road to You (1993)
- Why it’s great: Pat Metheny’s version of “Autumn Leaves” is a beautiful example of his ability to mix jazz with contemporary influences. His approach is lyrical, flowing, and rich with nuance. He captures the melancholic mood of the song while still pushing the boundaries of jazz guitar.
10. John McLaughlin
- Album: Extrapolation (1969)
- Why it’s great: As a pioneering figure in fusion jazz, John McLaughlin’s approach to “Autumn Leaves” is unique, combining complex improvisation with a modal approach. His version is deeply expressive and transcendent, showcasing his legendary technique and improvisational brilliance.
Bonus: Chet Atkins & Les Paul (Live)
- Why it’s great: While not a conventional version of “Autumn Leaves,” the collaboration between Chet Atkins and Les Paul is a guitar lover’s dream. The two legends weave a beautiful harmony together, with incredible improvisation and tone that elevates the classic tune.