Jazz chord progressions (and drum parts) are very difficult for anyone not accustomed...I'm in that boat.

Let's work on it a bit Saturday night or Sunday when we get a chance. I'll help you guys with the jazz parts. We can make it work.

quote:

Originally posted by Col. Andy:
I know what you mean about the flat keys. It's hard to put a capo on a stand up bass.

That's the great thing about an electronic keyboard ... one can easily shift the key to fit the other players in the group, even if you don't "sight-transpose".

Of course, if one denotes charts in Nashville notation, then it is (with some experience) easier to play in various keys.

quote:

Originally posted by Drumr:
Jazz chord progressions (and drum parts) are very difficult for anyone not accustomed...I'm in that boat.

Given that we have the "Jazz Loft Project" as part of the agenda, it might also be fun to have a time (either before or after the JLP) with a "practical" about playing improv/jazz.

The first improv I learned was a basic "12-bar blues" ... the way the director had us perform it was that the keyboardist came on stage first and laid down a basic 12-bar blues to establish the foundation. Then, one at a time, additional players would come on stage, do their 12-bar improv solo on top of that, then sit down and play light accompaniment while the next player came on stage for their solo riff.

It's an easy, fun way to learn about playing solos AND accompaniment; you get to listen to and try lots of different approaches to improvising over the same basic chord pattern.

Even vocalists can get in on the act -- not singing words, but just syllables (can you say "be-bop/scat singing"? here are a couple of references: Wikipedia and Jazz music made easy).

Coming originally from a purely classical piano background at that time, I had to have the chords (notes on a staff) written out the first time, but from there it was a straightforward progression to playing 'charts' and improvisation.

quote:

Almost Like Being in Love - up tempo - Af
Bye Bye Blackbird - medium - F
I'll Never Smile Again - slow - Ef
It's Only a Paper Moon - medium - Ef
When you're Smilin' - up - Af

I've posted these charts...HERE.


See you in a few days.

N

Nathan,

Got your charts. See you Saturday.

Tom

Hey Tom and Nathan,

Would it be ok if I sit in and watch some of your rehearsal? I think I could learn a lot from you guys.

Can't wait to see y'all again.

Rick

This message has been edited. Last edited by: rwj,

Rick,

Are you kidding? No way! I don't want you stealing my chops!

Just kidding! You're always welcome.

Tom

Absolutely. You need to ask??