Abstract
The purposes of this essay are to (1) transcribe and analyze four improvised solos by contemporary jazz trombonist Hal Crook, (2) provide numerous examples of melodic, harmonic, rhythmic and stylistic aspects of his playing, (3) categorize Crook as a major figure in contemporary jazz trombone, and (4) interview Mr. Crook about the state of jazz trombone, his improvisational philosophy, and the value of jazz in higher education. The paper highlights the improvisational style of Hal Crook on a variety of standard songs written before 1950 and includes the solo transcriptions on the following: "Because of You," "Darn That Dream," "My Funny Valentine," and "Suddenly It's Spring."