Music

Learning How To Play Jazz Has Never Been More Accessible Than Now

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Is your musical dream anything close to learning the ropes of jazz music? Well, something is intriguing about it. It has everything to do with its harmonious complexity stemming from deep improvisation and perfectly personalized sounds. But you only soak in its beauty by learning how to play jazz which is now easier than before.

 

  • What Is Jazz Music?

 

Jazz music traces its history to the United States of America centuries ago when black people worked as slaves on farms. In these farms, the slaves composed songs to channel their grievances and while away time. The power of music kept the African culture intact. Soon enough, it became a favorite tune for black and white people alike. Today, jazz is a celebrated world all over and has influences from European and African music. 

It is characterized by a rich melody coated in long-lasting melodies and harmony that fulfills the song. Further, jazz has a unique rhythm that is the epicenter of the genre and is amplified by improvising. Improvisation enables you to play any tune on stage. You can play a high, low, or moderate note without worry because jazz is freestyle.

 

  • Can You learn Jazz On Your Own?

 

You certainly can learn jazz on your own. There are inspiring stories of legends who taught themselves how to play it. They used techniques such as writing down recorded solos and gracing jazz sessions where they played with the best. However, it would help if you had a comprehensive guide only to learn what’s important. In the same vein, you can get a complete list of scales here. Scales form the backbone of jazz music, and they come in major and minor categories. Elementary-level jazz classes teach all this.

 

  • Is It Hard To Play Jazz?

 

Playing jazz is not daunting, like some people say. It is a matter of interest topped by passion and learning basic standards, and you are good to make merry! Continuous learning is the deal-breaker in jazz. Keep on improving your art.

 

  • How Do I Get Started In Jazz?

 

Teaching jazz is still a new thing, but there is a lot of expression of interest. The mystery is the spice of this genre that is distinctive from classical music. Yesteryears did not have a jazz education course, but the landscape is taking a Paradigm Shift. So, how do you get started in jazz in the 21st century? Here are ten steps to becoming a phenomenal jazz player.

 

  • Learn From Renowned Jazz Artists

 

Carla Bley puts it, “When you are studying Jazz best thing to do is listen to records & live music as much you can & absorb everything.” Thus, the first step into learning jazz music is simple; sit back, relax and listen to the jazz masters. Hearing what legends created in this genre gives an idea of what the theme is like. Again, don’t be in a hurry. Take it slow.

 

  • Understand Jazz History

 

Understanding the history of jazz music makes you appreciate it. For instance, jazz traces back to African-Americans who worked as slaves in farms owned by the whites. This piece of history is likely to shape your passion and character for the music.

 

  • Sharpen Your Technique On Instruments

 

It’s paramount you learn your art with instruments since jazz is heavily reliant on improvising, and instruments come in handy. Instruments mastery raises your creativity which the audience cares so much about. In other words, call it the 

 “first impression” of an intriguing sound in a live performance.

 

  • Write Down Jazz Solos

 

Transcribing an already recorded solo lets you learn by playing it afresh from the start. Having a solo transcribed enables you to master its content and internalize it. You then bring it out in a performance. Writing it all down allows you to create an authentic sound and enhance your musical memory. It is a technique like great jazz artists like Charlie Parker used to hone their skills.

 

  • Learn More On Standards In Jazz

 

Learning jazz standards creates a smooth path for you to transition to playing original tunes. It is an essential part of mastering the intrinsic points of jazz music. Jazz standards are all about the cardinal pillars of the genre; melody, harmony, and improvisation. An idea of how to blend them beautifully sharpens your skill.

 

  • Learn Jazz Vocabulary

 

Ideally, jazz vocabulary is common phrases used in solos. Now, learning how often and when to use them does the trick. If used without wit, they take away originality. You use them on a selective and rationed basis to strike an aura of authenticity in between your chords.

 

  • Nail The Chord Scale Theory

 

On the chord scale theory, a lot is said, and some of the sentiments are misplaced. In jazz classes, you learn that scales are the baseline for authenticity, and it takes daunting practice to nail it. They help when playing different keys where the instrument technique is on trial.

 

  • Hire A Great Jazz Teacher

 

Only the best and brilliant minds teach at the university, for example. And the intent is to have the best minds impart their knowledge to those seeking it. It is no different with jazz. Get a reputable teacher to teach you the best about jazz.

 

  • Play With Refined Jazz Artists

 

Stan Getz holds that “You can read all the textbooks and listen to all the records, but you have to play with musicians that are better than you.” In short, you should play with other jazz students and legends to find out how good you are. There is always something to learn from like-minded people.

 

  • Learn Some Piano Skills

 

It would be best to get your hands and mind into learning piano skills besides the chordal instruments. Piano skill enhances the creation of harmony while playing the notes. More often than not, the theme is composed with a piano.

A jazz enthusiast will say much about the satisfaction of playing these tunes. And it is all true because the music is quintessentially smooth and abounding with style, love, and comfort. Music is healing to the soul when delivered with military precision.

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