Tuesday, October 11, 2011

What Did You Miss This Week? (Week 240 #283)

George Smith!!!

Our guests and special events are wonderful, but it's good to be back to the rhythm of "normal" class, which means Joe was pulling lessons from a great George Smith tune, "Early One Monday Morning".

Studying this transcription and listening to the song, you should learn:
  • George is sticking almost exclusively to the blues scale, which can also be put this way: "Basic Blues Harmonica Wisdom - when in doubt, inhale."
  • Speaking of note choice, he also uses the 5 draw sparingly and uses inhale notes on the 3 hole almost as passing tones rather than landing there. This is a great jumping off point for beginning improv players - use the three hole sparingly until you have mastered the bends.
  • George's hip, swing phrasing comes from creating rhythmic tension...he ends a lot of phrases prior to the downbeat.
            Jimmy Gordon In the News!!!

            "You got to be beautiful inside," says Bellows Falls harmonica player Jimmy Gordon, "or it’s not going to come through in your music."

            Harmonica ace player and customizer, Jimmy Gordon, was recently interviewed in the Brattleboro Reformer. Read here about his playing and his struggle with Multiple Sclerosis. Then head over to this link to pick up a copy of the killer CD he's just released, MS Blows, featuring tracks from a who's who list of harp players!
            Shoji Naito Selling Play-Along Tracks!!!

            What could be better than harp play along tracks recorded by the guitar and harmonica playing genius in the Eddy Clearwater band? Shoji has years of teaching experience too and has built a great catalog of song-specific tracks. They are now available at his site for download and can be purchased through PayPal (no account necessary, just use your credit card).

            Get 'em here!
            Position Playing Workshop At Old Town!!!

            Bob Kessler (no relation!) from the Black Willoughbys stopped by class last night to announce a workshop he's teaching at Old Town. On Saturday, October 22 at 1:00pm Bob will be teaching how to play in positions beyond first, second and third. As he explained, playing in new positions can move you out of improv ruts and give unique sounds to your playing. Sign up and learn how to approach 4th, 5th, 6th and even 11th position!
            Class Notes
            • Our winter recital is on the calendar, December 17. You should start planning and practicing your songs now!
            • Joe's out of town October 24, 31 and November 7. His private lessons won't happen, but all group classes will proceed as normal with master subs Zoe Savage and Shoji Naito in charge.
            - Grant Kessler, B1 Blues Crew