We understand that jazz harmony and improvisation can be intimidating for beginners. This lesson is aimed to give you a little bit of guidance, and reassure you that all of us musicians have started from zero. You are not alone, we have all been there…
At its core, jazz music is all about improvisation. Instead of playing a set melody or chord progression, jazz musicians are free to improvise and create their own music on the spot. This can seem daunting at first, but it’s actually a lot of fun and can lead to some truly beautiful and unique music.
One of the key elements of jazz music is its use of extended and altered chords. These chords are more complex than the standard major and minor chords, and can add a lot of color and interest to your music. To understand how these chords work, think of them like spices in a recipe. Just as a pinch of cumin or a dash of paprika can add depth and flavor to a dish, an extended or altered chord can add depth and flavor to your music.
Another important element of jazz music is its use of improvisation. Improvisation is all about taking risks and trying new things, and it can be a lot of fun once you get the hang of it. To start improvising, try playing around with the melody or chord progression of a song. You can experiment with different rhythms, notes, and phrasing to create your own unique sound.
Remember, jazz music is all about having fun and expressing yourself. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes or try new things – that’s all part of the learning process.
