S
63
Wildflower
Wayne Shorter
Song Description
“This Is For Albert” is a composition by Wayne Shorter dedicated to his friend and mentor, pianist Bud Powell. It is featured on his 1964 album “Speak No Evil” and reflects Shorter’s deep respect and affection for Powell.
Song Characteristics
The structure is relatively simple, but the melody and harmonic progression are deeply moving. The piece is built on a medium-tempo swing rhythm, with a lyrical and gentle melody. The piano, bass, and drums work together cohesively to guide the flow of the piece, with each instrument’s delicate expression adding depth.
Performance Tips
It’s important to maintain the gentle swing rhythm while fully expressing the lyrical nature of the melody. The piano should highlight the melody with a fluid touch, while the bass and drums keep the rhythm steady yet flexible to match the flow of the piece. In the solo sections, respecting Shorter’s intentions while adding personal interpretation will enrich the emotional expression of the piece.