Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Jazz, man...

I learned more about playing bass in a jazz ensemble during today's lesson than I've been able to pick up all by myself during the past 40 years. To be sure, I've been practising, studying, thinking, listening and playing more jazz, too - and that helps. What's more I know I have an organic feel for the groove...

... but man playing from the charts this afternoon - listening to Andy's explanation of triads and playing a 5th or 9th in the walking bass pattern - and then having to stand and deliver was awesome. Humbling, for sure, but so much fun that I can't wait to practice some more. We worked a little on this tune - a ballad I hope Di will be singing with us - that is sooooo smooth and sultry.

Then we worked on a bossa nova groove for "Black Orpheus." Damn, I've always wanted to play this stuff and never had a clue how to make it work. Well, now I know, but that means I have to deliver on it, too. Oh sweet challenge: what a blessing you are.

5 comments:

Danilo Sergio Pallar Lemos said...

A development emglobando Jazz and Bosa Nova? contextualize two rhythms that have their origins adverse, but is a dimension? dual in musical pleasure.
www.vivendoteologia.blogspot.com

RJ said...

Thanks, brother, I agree.

jeff said...

Hi RJ. I am enjoying exploring your Blog. Thanks Jeff :O)

Peter said...

I think that jazz is where everything that speaks to us in music comes together. Break a leg, man, not a string...

RJ said...

Jeff - you are very, very welcome -I am glad for the connection, too. Black Pete - that is what I am learning - it all comes together in jazz in a powerful way that is new/old to me. What's more, I've just started reading Ralph Ellison's essay about jazz and that, too, is opening my eyes and heart.

an oblique sense of gratitude...

This year's journey into and through Lent has simultaneously been simple and complex: simple in that I haven't given much time or ...