SWING TO
THE MAX
Rigidity is a powerful force that attempts to constricts us and prevent us from living to the Max. Ralph Waldo Emerson spoke it well when he said "foolish consistency is the Hobgoblin of little minds." Most of us realize that flexibility is a more advantageous trait in most situations than rigidity is, yet it is not easy to prevent rigidity from becoming the more dominant of the two traits. The trick is learning how to swing, or sway side to side. In doing so, one can dodge obstacles easily and find solutions to problems more efficiently and quickly. Once you learn how to avoid making unnecessary restrictions and how think outside the box, nothing can stop you.
JAZZ: THE MUSIC OF FLEXIBILITY
Jazz is always looked at as the music of improvisation and constant change. It is perceived by most to be the most flexible music ever invented and a true testament to the flexibility of individuals. While Jazz is more structured than people realize, it is certainly true that it jazz musicians must be flexible in order to play with others in a musical ocean of constant change and shifting. As a jazz saxophonist, I have experienced this first hand. Now, I must honestly admit that I prefer to play jazz the way I like it. However, I cannot ignore the fact that shaping my flexibility by attempting to survive jam sessions with experienced players really does improve my mental flexibility. This sort of mental exercise is an invaluable gift that I am very grateful for and will treasure for the rest of my life.
SOME VERY SWINGING JAZZ TUNES
Weary Blues
The sounds in this recording are just like those that were first emerging in New Orleans in the early 1900s, the birth place of jazz music. There is a life and spirit to this early jazz style that cannot be replicated by any other. That expressive and joyous quality is why New Orleans Jazz is my favorite type to play. Take a listen and enjoy the calls of the trumpet, clarinet, and trombone, all speaking together in a blended and unified discussion of the bright side of life.
Giant Steps
If you ask any young jazz musician (and many professionals) what the most difficult jazz tune to play is, over 75% of them are likely to mention this crazy tune. The melody is simple and memorable, but the chord progression seems very unnatural and take a lot of getting used to. This combined with the fast tempo tend to make most players stumble. Even if you cannot play it, you cannot help but admire the skill with which the greatest saxophonist of all time takes giant steps forward through the playing of this tune.
Basin Street Blues
As one of the most important musicians in the history of American music, Louis Armstrong seems to make every song he plays better than it was without him, and this old classic is no exception. The band starts off slow and bluesy, but then suddenly transitions to a more upbeat tempo. It is impossible to listen to Louis Armstrong and his All-Stars play this number and tap your foot or bob your head.
Duke's Place (C-Jam Blues)
Known as one of the most important composers in American music, Duke Ellington wrote many masterful jazz standards that he continually arranged in increasingly complicated ways. Although his C-jam Blues is by no means a complicated arrangement, it still swings hard and shows the brilliance of Ellington's band. This version by the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra maintains the same level of energy as Ellington's orchestra would have back in the day.
Jumpin' at the Woodside
This tune is an iconic example of the unique flavor of inventive swing that was coming out of Kansas City during the peak of the Swing Era. This particular recording is even more special because it features both the Duke Ellington and Count Basie Orchestras, two of the most famous big bands of the Swing Era. The combination of both bands makes for an even more energetic and swinging experience and this tune is sure to get you on your feet.
Joe Avery Blues (Second Line)
This is another New Orleans Jazz traditional, and to perform it for you is none other that yours truly. Hope you enjoy listening to my old jazz band named Maximum Blues play some swinging music.