Essential Jazz Lines #2

by Per Danielsson

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As pianists we naturally listen to and transcribe the work of our favorite piano players. In last month’s article (August), an etude was written based on the material from the book, Essential Jazz Lines in the Style of Bill Evans. If you played that etude you probably noticed the technical challenges that it presented. It is very important to learn from the masters of your instrument in order to gain full control over the piano. The study of classical music is also recommended. Many university jazz programs require piano students to take several semesters of applied classical studies before allowing them to take private jazz lessons. This ensures that a certain level of skill is reached so that the jazz teacher can concentrate on the actual music.

This month's article includes an etude written with material from Essential Jazz Lines in the Style of Charlie Parker. It is well known that Charlie Parker was an extraordinary saxophonist and one of the creators of the be-bop language. Listening to and transcribing the music of instruments other than your own will create new technical and musical challenges that when overcome, will greatly improve your playing. It is important to learn from all the jazz masters, regardless of the instrument they play, in order to be well versed in the language of jazz.

Keep this in mind:
1. Pianists should transcribe horn players in order to strengthen their phrasing. Since we don't have to breathe, we often play lines that are too long. LET YOUR MUSIC BREATHE.
2. You will notice that the Bill Evans etude lays better under your fingers than the Parker etude. This becomes more apparent in faster tempos. Practice the etude slowly before speeding it up to a bright be-bop tempo. Write in the fingerings if needed and practice the complicated lines until they feel natural and under control.
3. Compare Charlie Parker's style with that of Bill Evans. How is the phrasing, rhythmic and harmonic content different?
4. Since Charlie Parker is one of the most influential musicians of the 20th Century, we should be knowledgeable about his music.

In the August issue you'll find the directions on how to best use the Essential Jazz Lines series. Visit the Mel Bay web site at www.melbay.com for a complete listing of the Essential Jazz Lines series.
Good Luck,
Per Danielsson