Very Early — Bill Evans

'Very Early' is written in 3/4 time, making it a jazz waltz, a form that Bill Evans explored frequently in his compositions alongside other waltz-time pieces like 'Waltz for Debby.' The 3/4 meter gives the piece a flowing, lyrical quality that became a hallmark of Evans' style.

Yes, 'Very Early' is an original Bill Evans composition, showcasing the pianist's sophisticated harmonic language and melodic inventiveness. It is regarded as one of his important compositions within the jazz repertoire and has been recorded and performed by other jazz artists.

'Very Early' appears on recordings from Evans's career in the late 1960s, reflecting the creative period that followed his landmark work with bassist Scott LaFaro and drummer Paul Motian on albums like Sunday at the Village Vanguard (1961). The piece exemplifies the evolving harmonic sophistication that characterized Evans's output throughout that decade.

While 'Waltz for Debby' is more widely known and has become a jazz standard covered by countless artists, 'Very Early' is valued by Evans enthusiasts for its more complex harmonic structure and introspective character. Both pieces demonstrate Evans' affinity for the 3/4 jazz waltz form and his ability to blend lyrical melody with advanced chord voicings.