Tuesday, November 5, 2013

What Did You Miss This Week? (Week 333 #377)

Understanding Song Forms!!!

RickEy had an improv discussion planned for this week, but it got sidetracked by a fruitful conversation about song forms. In response to a couple unusual songs played during class, it was clear to Shoji we needed to spend some time understanding forms and grooves better, so conversation turned to mapping and counting out a few songs. The big takeaway is that we all need to apply ourselves more to the matter of understanding the songs we're trying to play - learn your song's form and groove before you play it with the band...and if you're having trouble figuring out out, ask!

Class Notes
  • Joe announced the prizes for his end of year contest. Get your CD in by end of December that shows what you are capable of and you could win! Third Prize, one high performance Marine Band Deluxe; Second Prize, two high performance Crossover harps; First Prize, three high performance Crossover harps!
  • Reminder that Joe will be away touring with Eric for one more week. Private lessons with him are cancelled but group classes will continue as usual. Level Three classes will be taught by Zoe and Grant (be sure to bring a copy of your transcription for them to watch as you play); Level IV classes will be covered by Shoji and RickEy. Joe's gone October 21-November 11, but you shouldn't be! Get a fresh perspective on your playing from these other great teachers.
  • Jam! Grant will be hanging out in B1 and hosting a casual open jam from 3:30pm to 5:30pm next Monday. This is a great chance for you to practice, ask questions and just have a good time. It is also a great opportunity for you to rehearse and work out arrangement questions for tunes you want to record for Joe's contest.
- Grant Kessler, B1 Blues Crew