Jazz Phrasing Part 1 (For All Instruments)

Desc:

Part 1 of this single note-based class explores the superimposition of 3/4 rhythms over 4/4 swing commonly called hemiola rhythms. This rhythm is a hallmark of jazz syncopation and can really make your solos and comping swing through it’s “over the bar line” phrasing.

The class begins with one of the most swinging rhythms in jazz from Duke Ellington’s “It Don’t Mean A Thing.” Three different common tone or pedal points are used to phrase over the chord changes to “Sunny Side Of The Street” using Duke’s iconic rhythm.

The next rhythm that is explored is the dotted quarter note, used in the form of guide tone lines and scale patterns. We then move on to harmonized diatonic triads in a modal context employing hemiola rhythms.

Next we apply the same 8^th note rhythm of three note groupings to the changes of “Sunny Side” using triads, scalar patterns and enclosures. The practice is then extended to six note patterns.

Finally we explore the classic “Honeysuckle Rose” pattern bending it into a 3/4 rhythm to be used over chord changes in 4/4.

Working on one’s phrasing will bring your playing up to new heights and establish greater rhythmic conviction in your playing.

You’ll be sure to benefit from working this elastic phrasing into your music as it is essentially what will give the lines forward motion and swing.

Expected Outcome from this class: Break down some rhythmic roadblocks and feel rhythm in a freer way. This will give you the ability to phrase over the barline and swing harder!

• 4 pages of PDF written material notated in standard notation (and TAB for guitarists)
• Running time: 31 minutes

Sub-Topics:

• Hemiola Rhythms (3/4 against 4/4)
• Freeing up one’s rhythmic feel