is jazz improvising really made up on the spot

Is Improvising Really Improvising?

By

Eric

Inspiration, Myths, Perspectives

If there is one thing about playing jazz that’s shrouded in mystery, it is improvisation. Improvisation exists in other types of music, even in musical traditions from the far reaches of the globe, but in jazz it goes much deeper. It is somehow vitally tied to the spirit of the music, and it’s not just …

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the myth of the linear path

The Myth of The Linear Path

By

Forrest

Perspectives

It’s as easy as getting from point A to point B, right? Of course it is. But what they fail to mention is that the distance between the two points is not a straight line! In terms of large goals, like learning how to improvise, the path is not linear. In terms of small goals …

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20 things every jazz improviser should know

20 Things Every Improviser Should Know

By

Eric

Jazz Advice and Tips, Perspectives

Being successful as a jazz musician isn’t all about practice routines, ii-V licks, or memorizing tunes. Sometimes getting to the next level as a player is all about having the right perspective. Here are 20 things every improviser should know… 1. Nobody’s checking for your music degree Just because you graduated with a degree in …

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bizarre improvisation techniques

Playing Colors, Imitating Movies, & Watching TV: Bizarre Jazz Improvisation Techniques

By

Forrest

Inspiration, Perspectives, Playing Techniques

What if you could approach something in a completely new way than you’ve ever done before? What would happen? Perhaps an entire world of possibility exists from this new angle, but how do you get there? Trying completely outlandish, almost silly techniques can spawn immense creativity and improvement in one’s ability. In all art-forms, it’s …

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jazz is the moment

Jazz Is The Moment

By

Forrest

Inspiration, Perspectives

If jazz is all about being in the moment, but all our practice time is dedicated to figuring out what we want to play when we perform, then how are we supposed to be in the moment when we perform? There’s this strange dichotomy… On one side, jazz improvisation is very rehearsed. And on the …

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