SAMcoffeyJazz

- THE PURPOSE IS ART. A lot of folks that teach improvisation emphasize the importance of scales and chords. Yes, it’s true that there are such things as rows of notes that reflect a harmonic quality through melodic disposition—these are called scales. And it’s true there are stacked thirds based on these scales that present a harmonic disposition of these scales. However, these should NOT be limitations, but rather different ways of ordering tones that SERVES THE PURPOSE OF MAKING ART. The assembling of tones based solely upon 18th century rules of harmony and counterpoint isn’t itself ART. It’s how you use it. This is a personal expression. If, as you spontaneously construct an improvised solo, you get bogged down in “outlining chords” and regurgitating patterns, this isn’t really ART. Why not? Because it’s not your personal expression—you’ve just assembled various patterns you’ve practiced and decided they fit into your current solo. By subjugating your theoretical knowledge and your technique to the Muse—to the expression of a motive-based melodic intent—that’s when you create new ART, ART that’s personal and universal at the same time. Stay tuned for more about