Here are some chart formatting tips:
The closer the chart resembles a concise “lead sheet” (i.e., just the melody and changes), the easier it is for the musician to grasp...quickly and precisely!...
(1) – Try to lay out the chart in 4 or 8 bar phrases.
(2) – Outline the format of the tune clearly, and by section (e.g., AABC, ABAC, etc.), with each section demarcated by double bars.
(3) – Head up the relevant sections of the chart; i.e., Intro, Outro, Head, Blowing, Interlude, etc.
(4) – Include the chord changes throughout, because the player will hear these, and it is much easier for him/her to keep track of where he/she is in the tune...even when he/she is not playing!...
(5) – In order to keep the number of pages manageable and to a minimum, make use of (i) repeat, (ii) dal segno, (iii) da capo, and/or (iv) coda signs.
(6) – In remote overdub situations, identify the actual time of the track at key points; for example, show—or tell—the performer that the Head starts at 0:36, the Blowing starts at 2:17, the Coda starts at 3:55, etc.
(7) – Finally, if the chart is long, then be mindful of any necessary page-turns in laying it out.
I repeat, the closer the chart resembles a concise “lead sheet” (i.e., just the melody and changes), the easier it is for the musician to grasp...quickly and precisely!...
[NOTE: All of the above applies whether you are formatting
charts for recording purposes or live performances!]