Embedded Files
A common mistake novice improvisers make is to find themselves stuck on the same timing, or lose their timing entirely.
Let's look at how to avoid that.
When playing along to a traditional 12 Bar Blues, we have 4 beats, and the offbeats to choose from when starting a phrase.
In other words, we can start on either 1, 2, 3, or 4. Or, we can start on any of the "and's".
That gives us 8 jumping off points to choose from.
Most players, if they are new to improvising, will tend to start and stop their phrases on the same beats much of the time.
(Or, they simply play one endless phrase that never seems to take a breath - this is also not great!)
Now that we know our options, let's practice using them.
Each of these are a valid starting point!
To start with, pull up a backing track (preferably in swing timing) or use the one provided. (You might like to slow this track to 0.75 at first!)
Now, try starting a phrase on the 1, and carry it on for a few notes.
Then, try it again starting from the 2. Then the 3. Then the 4.
Once you're comfortably able to start playing off any of the strong beats, try starting from the "and" of 1. Work through the rest of the "and's".
You'll notice that you need to be keeping a count in your head to keep track of when to come in.
Eventually, this will become more intuitive, but at first it can feel a little tedious. Stick with it!
If you've managed to get a feel for all 8 jumping off points, you can take this to the next level by working on targeting specific endpoints as well!
Try ending your phrases on each of the 8 options now.Â
You can either start on the 1, or you can really challenge yourself by setting two distinct start and end points.
This might feel a little frustrating, especially if you've developed a habit of improvising without focusing on your timing.
But, this work will rapidly pay off with a vastly improved timing toolset for you to work with.
Remember - it is often true that timing matters more than specific note choices when developing an interesting phrase! No matter how strong your notes are, without timing variation, your playing will quickly turn to mush to the listener.
Once you develop your innate sense of timing, you can get back to the fun stuff of improvising in a way that feels free and easy.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse