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Standard – Definition
A standard is a well-known song that has become part of the common repertoire performed by many musicians. The term is most closely associated with jazz standards, although it can also describe classic songs from other genres.
What is a Standard?
Standards are valued because musicians already know their melodies, chord progressions, and song forms. This shared musical vocabulary allows performers who have never played together before to perform the same song with little or no rehearsal.
Many famous standards originated in Broadway musicals, films, or the Great American Songbook before becoming favorites for jazz interpretation and improvisation.
Why are Standards important for pianists?
Learning standards builds a pianist’s repertoire while strengthening harmony, accompaniment, improvisation, and musical memory. Because many standards share common chord progressions and song forms, they provide an excellent foundation for developing broader musicianship.
A strong repertoire of standards prepares pianists for jam sessions, accompanying singers, and performing with other musicians.