STEEPLE CHASE - Free Jazz Leadsheet

steeple chase, composed by Charlie Parker in 1948, is a bebop instrumental known for its rapid tempo, intricate melody lines, and harmonic complexity. It exemplifies Parker’s innovative approach to modern jazz improvisation.

The first recording was by Charlie Parker and His All-Stars in New York, featuring virtuoso saxophone work and intricate rhythmic phrasing. Subsequent performances by Dizzy Gillespie and other bebop musicians reinforced its status as a technical and expressive benchmark.

The tune uses a 32-bar AABA form with advanced chord changes, providing a challenging canvas for improvisation and highlighting bebop’s emphasis on harmonic exploration and rapid melodic development.