I have received several emails from people who tell me they are trying to learn to play traditional jazz with the help of my blog. Some seem to be seeking a magic formula and think it is to be found in the stuff I write about chord progressions.
This is worrying. It's time to warn you not to take me too seriously. I am no expert. I am a self-taught ever-struggling learner, especially in matters of chord progressions.
Note this: confidence and boldness when improvising are often more important than knowing the tune's chord progression by heart.
In 1997, when I had started taking a serious interest in the music, I closely observed the trumpet-player Marc Caparone at the High Mountains Jazz Festival in Oregon.
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| Marc Caparone |
I had the good fortune to bump into him later and I mentioned this to him.
His reply was unfortgettable: 'That's right. I don't let the chords get in the way!'
Maybe that's the best approach to take.
Maybe that's the best approach to take.
