improving jazz improv

[ekspain]

Dear Lynn

This question is inspired by a great video interview with Bill Evans, about building a good foundation. The question I had was : where does one begin. I'm a classical player that has dabbled in jazz a bit, but always got confounded by the numerous methods and transcriptions out there- My best solos where inevitably the most simple, but what are the layers of the foundation. The phases. I'd really like to get IT, for once.

Thanks very much (in advance)
EK

 

[Lynn Seaton]

A good technical foundation is a good start to any style of playing. As a classical player, you probably have that with the left hand and the bow. Right hand pizz techniques are varied and a great deal of insight can be gained watching great players perform live and on YouTube. Regarding soloing, Jerry Coker's excellent book "Improvising Jazz" has been around since the mid 60's and is still a wonderful guide. He also has written "The Complete Method for Improvisation" (for all instruments) and "How to Practice Jazz". Dan Haerle wrote "The Jazz Language" which is an excellent theory text that explains chord/scale relations.
The above texts will help you to organize the phases.
Transcribing solos and analyzing the melody/chord relations is a time-honored way to learn to play.
As a bassist it is also extremely important to study how to walk basslines in addition to soloing. The walking is what most people hire us for!
It can be extremely beneficial to attend a summer jazz workshop such at the famous one run by Jamey Aebersold Jamey Aebersold Jazz or one we hold at UNT Invalid Link Removed
I hope this helps.