Most people would agree jazz is popularly regarded as purely an American Art form in its origin. I should note that it is not the only contribution – let’s not forget Rock & Roll, R&B, Blues, and Country. However, we are speaking about jazz here, how to understand it and where to find it. Having said that it is also important to note the difference between jazz and the other aforementioned styles of music. To that end it is quite simple. Aside from the overall sound the major difference is improvisation, how the music is played not necessarily the written music itself. It is one thing that sets jazz apart from all other music though many other styles borrow the art of improvisation.
The act of improvisation is to take what was originally written and impart a personal touch keeping the original structure (chord structure for the most part) but playing different notes than originally scored. Within this improvisation is the connection with everyone else playing and or listening. Now within this “structure” exists rules if you will. Certainly the notes must be in agreement with the other components of the song (not to mention the audience and other players), that is to say it must be in tune. Moreover, it should follow, though one can what?, improvise, the same or similar beat so as not to lose anyone.
To understand jazz and improvisation (bearing in mind we can’t cover it all here) it is my suggestion to get something that is appealing to your ear and listen to it, in a general sense. Get a feel for the song, its rhythm, changes in music etc. Then listen to it several times and each time focus on something different. Another approach is to get out and hear it live in CT. There are many places to achieve this, we’ll name a few later on.
A few friends came with me a few weeks back (Valentine’s Day) where I sat in with the band (played with the band) according to them (a couple of them were new to jazz), it brought new understanding. That understanding (I like to think) was helped by selecting an apt (for the day) and recognizable song. I sat down to play a couple tunes but it was the first tune “My Funny Valentine” that lends itself best to what we are talking about here, understanding jazz. We started with an intro by the pianist then I picked up the melody and as we progressed a quite fell over the room. Prior to that the place was abuzz with conversation and clinking glasses but now you could almost hear a pin drop. I took a few liberties soloing around the melody before a singer came in to anchor the melody, words, emotion, and translate for those maybe unclear on the solo concept or song. The guitarist came in to echo what the singer was saying and when we returned to the singer I added a little contrast to his voice. When the song ended peoples stood cheering and clapping, it was a very nice experience. Returning to my friends I could see in their eyes an attraction of this music and the environment. So much so that they called me two weeks later as they were going back and wanted to know if I would come with them!
So if you inclined, grab a few songs that you find interesting and listen to them. You can find many variations of most songs by many artists and you may find a different version you like better. Then get out there and go see it live and don’t be afraid to make a request whilst there. As my friends said to me when we were leaving that evening, their impression of the place, people, and jazz had changed greatly after spending the afternoon there. I submit yours too may change after spending some time listening to and discussing with other fans of this great American art form you can find fresh right here in CT. Some places you may want to visit are below.
If you have ideas on places to see jazz or particular interests in jazz let us know.
Szechuan Tokyo. 1245 New Britain Avenue. Hartford, CT Tel: 860 561 0180 A Chinese Restaurant featuring Szechuan Home Food, Japanese Food, and Sushi Bar. Currently offering top notch jazz performances on Thursday evenings from 7:30 to 10:30, No Cover charge]
Firehouse 12. 45 Crown St. New Haven, CT Tel: 203-785-0468
The performance space at Firehouse 12 is the recording studio – and all performances happen in an acoustically balanced, soundproofed space with installed sound reinforcement and stage lighting systems.
The Red Door. 675 Main St. Tel: 860-945-6688 Watertown, CT
Every Wednesday at the Red Door means Jazz and Sushi. With some of the top New York players Sushi is served from 6 pm until it runs out, usually around midnight. Music starts at 9:00 and goes to Midnight.
Related posts:
- Jazz- See It Live Out And About In Connecticut
- Spring Means Jazz Out And About In Connecticut
- Dan Moretti – Jazz Live Friday February 5th
- Branford Jazz On The Green: Paula Atherton Lights Up The Branford Green
- Walter Duda Kicks Off Branford Jazz On The Green Concert Series
