"The purpose of Melodic Shapes for the Modern Improvisor is to provide a straight forward encyclopedia of great sounding melodic shapes (“licks”) over standard jazz ii-V-I harmony. By practicing these lines, improvisors will train their ears to play and manipulate changes over functional jazz harmony. Instead of dealing with the frustrations of searching for what to play during performance and practice situations, one will have access to a toolbox of information and knowledge to draw and learn from. Through diligent practice, improvisors will eventually reach the end goal of creating their own improvised lines in real time."