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Exceptional

by Eric R. Thomas

Finding a place in the jazz ensemble

Regular price $20.80 USD
Regular price $34.67 USD Sale price $20.80 USD
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AlbakiReads Editorial

Finding a place in the jazz ensemble

Four high school seniors get a chance to perform original songs at their spring concert, but the jazz program poses a challenge: their instruments—the violin, harp, harmonica, and steel drum—are not traditional jazz leads. The story brings songwriting and ensemble performance together as the students develop material for the concert, with support from their music teacher. Its focus on unfamiliar instrumental combinations gives the musical premise a clear shape, while the students’ work highlights dedication and creative collaboration. The characters are based on named musicians, including violinist Scott Tixier, harpist Brandee Younger, harmonica player Yvonnick Prene, and steel pannist Victor Provost.

Good fit for readers who enjoy

  • Teens and young adults interested in music-centered fiction
  • Young musicians or songwriters, including those curious about jazz
  • Readers interested in stories about creative collaboration and dedication

Themes

Jazz and musical performanceSongwritingCreative collaborationDedication and skill-building

Based on publisher information and book metadata.

Book overview

Some musicians follow the path laid before them. Others have to carve their own path in order to claim destiny. Learn what it means to be exceptional in this exciting story for young musicians and songwriters. 

In Exceptional, four high school seniors receive the once-in-a-year chance to present their own personally written songs for their final high school spring concert. 

Each student has a skillset in a different instrument: the violin, the harp, the harmonica, and the steel drum. But their songs are meant to be part of a jazz performance, and their instruments aren't traditional jazz leads. Can the group develop a show that will blow the audience away?

With encouragement from their music teacher and creative inspiration, the group writes their songs and prepares to play!

With characters based on famous musicians Scott Tixier, the violinist; Brandee Younger, the harpist; Yvonnick Prene, the harmonica player, and Victor Provost, the steel pannist, this book is a testament to the beauty of jazz and the power of exceptional dedication. These artists inspire author Eric Thomas because they demonstrate exceptionalism.

Songwriters and musicians ever-whether amateur or professional songwriters and musicians will enjoy this story, especially those who aspire, dream, and tirelessly to perfect their skills.

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