You noticed that I ended Lesson 10 with a very strong suggestion that you learn
your major scales. All the information that you need on scales, modes and chords
can be found in Jamey Aebersold's Jazz Handbook. It is a free resource, and
can be downloaded here.
It's a free resource, so take advantage of it. And it's information that I'm
not going to review. You just have to know everything in there!
In fact, in preparation for the upcoming Part 2, here are some important exercises.
Know all your major scales, all 12 of them, INCLUDING the ones you think you'll
never play in like Db and E. Trust me, you'll need them.
Arpeggiate major and minor triads in all keys through the Circle of 4ths (C,F,Bb,Eb,Ab,Db,Gb,B,E,A,D,G)
Arpeggiate dominant 7th chords through the Circle of 4ths.
Arpeggiate major 7th and minor 7th chords through the Circle of 4ths.
Learn your Jazz Melodic Minor scales in all keys (this scale is spelled 1, 2,
b3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 1). In other words, just a major scale with a b3.
Learn your diminished scales (these are on the scale sheet in the Aebersold
Jazz Handbook
Listen, listen, listen! Check out jazz musicians that you like, both on CD and
even more importantly, live. There are most likely great jazz musicians in your
area. Go to hear them, not only to learn from them, but to support their efforts
at keeping the art form alive. Most will also be more than happy to answer questions
you may have, and many will even give you lessons. These people are living history.
Allow them to pass the torch to you.
Fill your I-pod with improvised music. Again, listening is crucial.
This will give you a good start at the skills you are going to need to improvise your best. Practice these skills and then forget them. Be sure to follow all of this intellectual learning and muscle training by “just blowing”. Turn the music around and use your ear to play, and just let the music flow. Do this at EVERY practice. Technique is only a tool. Just play.
Patterns for Jazz is a wonderful book for going even further. Please use it
as your chord/scale bible.
Band in a Box will allow you to put any chord progression into your computer,
and it will generate a backing track in any style you choose. This program is
highly recommended.
Stay tuned for Volume 2!
Thanks.
David Hoffman, September, 2008