beginners mind in music and jazz improvisation

Beginner’s Mind

By

Forrest

Inspiration, Perspectives

In Zen Buddhism there is a concept of the beginner’s mind. To quote Wikipedia: It refers to having an attitude of openness, eagerness, and lack of preconceptions when studying a subject, even when studying at an advanced level, just as a beginner in that subject would. When we begin studying this music, we’re excited and …

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seeking out words of wisdom

Seeking Out Words of Wisdom

By

Eric

Inspiration

In practicing improvisation, one common pitfall that we run into is expecting to find the secrets of jazz all by ourselves. We gather our books and recordings and head into the practice room determined to overcome the difficulties of improvisation with an army of one. What’s the big deal, you taught yourself Spanish, so how …

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harold mabern on practicing

How to Completely Change How You Think About Practicing: Words of Wisdom from Harold Mabern

By

Forrest

How to Practice Jazz, Jazz Advice and Tips, Jazz Musicians

As he stood in the hallway, the students gathered round. You could see the crowd growing, one-by-one as the people walking by heard what was happening. Harold, animated and speaking with vibrant energy, was sharing his experiences with a group of lucky students that happened to catch him in-between classes. While I was at music …

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Think like a pro jazz musician like Michael Brecker

How to Think Like a Pro Jazz Musician: Michael Brecker and The Power of Simplicity (Premium)

By

Forrest

Jazz Advice and Tips, Jazz Musicians, Playing Techniques, Premium Only, Transcribing, Visualization

It sounds so complex. So difficult. So advanced. Great jazz musicians sound as though they’re implementing highly complex and difficult concepts that mere mortals could never hope to access, but in reality, professionals think simpler than you’d ever imagine. It’s the beginners and intermediates who study the pros and abstract what they think is going …

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jazz education doesnt fit the mold

Why Jazz Education Doesn’t Fit the Mold

By

Eric

Perspectives

One thing we’re all accustomed to in this day and age is results with a limited amount of work. From daily tasks to larger life goals, this mentality has been ingrained into our collective mindset. Put in a set amount of effort and time and you’ll reach your goal, getting the exact results you’ve envisioned. …

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