The “Great American Songbook” is one of the most important musical elements of Jazz. This collection of “Standards” has shaped and influenced Jazz, Pop, Rock, Broadway, musical theater and film as we know it today. Also known as “American Standards”, the “Great American Songbook” is the collection of the most popular Jazz standards and American popular songs from the early to mid part of the 20th century.  The Songbook comprises standards by George Gershwin, Cole Porter, and Irving Berlin, and also Jerome Kern, Harold Arlen, Johnny Mercer, Richard Rodgers, and others. The material will be based on the skill level and preference of the students. We will explore harmony, scales, and melody as we explore these essential musical works.