C T A - Free Jazz Leadsheet

“c t a” was composed by Jimmy Heath and first recorded in 1953 by Miles Davis during a Los Angeles session that featured several emerging modern-jazz players of the period. The title references a nickname associated with Heath, and the tune quickly became a favorite among hard-bop musicians.

The piece has been revived often by small groups, including later recordings by the Heath brothers. Its lyrics-free structure focuses on rapid horn lines, tight ensemble passages, and a sophisticated harmonic layout typical of early-1950s modern jazz, offering soloists ample room for energetic improvisation.