how to master sightreading

5 Steps to Mastering Sight-Reading

By

Eric

Jazz Advice and Tips, Rhythm

A reader recently asked: At my college, to get into the lab bands you have to be a really great sight-reader. What are some ways to become a great reader besides just saying “read whatever you can.” I am decent at sight-reading, but I want to take it to that next level. How do I …

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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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more secrets of the jazz masters

The Secret of the Masters

By

Eric

Perspectives

What exactly is it that makes the musicians that we call “masters” great? What sets them apart from everyone else? Is it their technique, their sound, their originality, the way they can play over chord progressions? Well…these are all pieces of their mastery, but what is the reason for their mastery? These are questions that …

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the enemies of progress

Combating The Enemies of Progress

By

Forrest

Inspiration

We have met the enemy and he is us – Pogo We all want to get better and we always will. There’s never a point where a musician thinks, “Well, I think I’m good enough now. Guess that’s it.” What’s stopping us? What’s holding us back from becoming the player we wish to be? The …

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