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Using The Bebop Scale On Modal Tunes Pt. 1 by Behn Gillece

I recently had a lesson with a student where we focused on playing in modal settings. One key point I always emphasize is the value of incorporating dominant bebop harmony, even within a modal framework. While understanding modes is, of course, essential, embellishing them with dominant bebop vocabulary adds depth and character to modal playing—something that can be heard in the improvisation of the jazz greats.

251 Etude - pt 2 - a little harder

You know what, to be very frank and mildly funny, the big boys and girls can play good 2 5 1 voicings.

Well rounded players can do all this stuff. You can tell how well rounded a player is by listening to them play a standard and comp. For whatever that is worth. I imagine if you are a blue grass vibe player and that's all you care about then you're not worrie about this etude. But if you want to be a decent jazz player this stuff I think is important. 

15 Week Vibe Course - Lesson 14

Assignments Due

  • Play ii9 V13b9 Imaj9 through cycle of 4ths
  • 1st half of Friedman #10
  • Donna Lee Play the whole melody once through and then comp the first 32 bars - All rootless voicings
  • Cal Tjader - Soul Sauce
    • Was the vibes Cal’s first instrument?
    • What famous pianist did Cal play with in his early days?
    • What style of music is Cal known for playing?
    • What is Cal’s race?

Bossa Etude (based on Recado Bossa Nova)

I love the tune Recado Bossa Nova. My fav part is the Eb to A. What a cool sound. 

I wrote a very detailed (for me) etude with sticking. So you can really see how I think of things. I try to take a very minimalist approach to the vibes (most of the time). 

Notice how the harmony works and there is not a lot of chords. I think this works as a solo piece which means you don't need a lot of notes and chords for a solo piece.