theory shed
Most questions about jazz improvising are answered in the enjoyable (and long) process of learning tunes. Jazz is a language like any other, and its vocabulary, grammar and conventions are found in the rhythms, melodies and harmonies of our shared repertoire of tunes and solos.
That being said, there is plenty more to think about and work on while we are engaged in this practical tune learning - jazz is a complex music that happens in 12 keys and requires considerable musical sophistication - rhythmic, melodic and harmonic - as well as a quick and flexible mind and very strong instrumental and aural skills. Jazz theory can help us not just with harmony, but in all of these important areas.
Jazz theory, taken in this very broad sense, is potentially a huge subject! Our 4 levels of learning at Jazz School UK, covering beginner to professional level, comprise more than 120 specific theory points, skills and conceptual areas.
In fact jazz theory is so huge a subject that it can (and regrettably often does) become an activity in its own right, quite separate from the real business of playing! Players get so fixated on what they can intellectually understand that they neglect the development of what they can actually do!
The THEORY SHED days we offer this season concentrate entirely on the practical application of theory. So rather than expounding at length on the intellectual whys and wherefores, theories about theories and so on, we will be focusing on 8 specific sound areas and exploring them on our instruments through the keys. The theoretical work will be brief - the practical application will take all day.
All expert jazz musicians recognise the importance of this 'drilling' - only when we have quick and reliable access to the sounds of jazz language all over the instrument and all through the keys do we gain freedom to listen, and freedom to improvise.
Come and give it a try - you'll be amazed at the difference it will make to your playing!
The sessions are suitable for players of all jazz levels, as long as they have good instrumental ability.
On a lighter note, here's a video guide to harmonic description:
playing the changes
