A method of parallel imaging for use with a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus includes producing a longitudinal magnetic field B0 throughout a target volume, producing a transverse magnetic field B1 that is generally perpendicular to B0 throughout the target volume, transmitting a plurality of RF pulses to the target volume, with a surface coil, acquiring first MRI data from a target within the target volume in response to the transmission of RF pulses, and with a body coil, acquiring second MRI data from the target within the target volume in response to the transmission of RF pulses, wherein acquisition of the first MRI data and the second MRI data occurs substantially simultaneously.