Phase II Preparation
Throughout the year, many students have recitals and/or solo festivals in which they perform. Perparing for these events requires a specific tiered approach that ultimately leads to a highly probable successful performance. This is called the 3 Phases of Preparation. This is not a new concept or one that I invented. I learned it from the “Tenor Trombone Method” by Buddy Baker. I adapt it slightly, however, ultimately it is a great method. The second phase which is called “Phase II” involves focusing on “Articulations and Dynamics“. With solid Phase I preparation completed, Phase II is the next logical progression. For Phase II preparation, it is critical to shift primary focus to the Phase II mission of Articulations and Dynamics.
I start by putting all dynamics in brackets, [ ]. They attract the attention of your eyes and highlight the dynamics meaning clearly and efficiently. This is important when interpreting music. In addition, make sure you get every articulation correct at a tempo where a mistake cannot occur. Then, similar to Phase I, use a metronome to slowly increase the tempo. Remember, in Phase II, articulations and dynames are the focus. Notes and rhythms at this pont are second nature.
Dynamically, stretch the loud dynamics in order redifine your maximum loud volume and minimum soft volume. Once you move into Phase III, you will not use these extremes, however, they are available if needed. Phase II is the first phase where music begins to take definition. In this case, the performer begins to recognize the musical impact of the piece and the information on the musical page.
Phase I Preparation
Throughout the year, many students have recitals and/or solo festivals in which they perform. Perparing for these events requires a specific tiered approach that ultimately leads to a highly probable successful performance. This is called the 3 Phases of Preparation. This is not a new concept or one that I invented. I learned it from the “Tenor Trombone Method” by Buddy Baker. I adapt it slightly, however, ultimately it is a great method. The first phase, which is called “Phase I” involves focusing on “Rhythms and Notes“. These are the foundation of all performances. Without accurate rhythmic and note execution, even the best music will be missing something. I tell students that rhythm is essentially pass fail, while notes are percentage based. If you lock in the rhythm, and get a high percentage of the notes, you can ensure solid Phase I preparation, and an easier transition to Phase II.
Phase I requires to start a piece of music at a tempo that can be sight read without any errors. Upon establishing this tempo, using a metronome, slowly increase the tempo while ensuring correct rhythm and correct notes. Through this style of repetition, the correct muscle memory is created, which in turns frees the player to focus on the next keys of success in Phase II. This process can seem daunting, however, in even 15 minutes of this on a specific piece, one will be surprised on the level of improvment in a short period of time.
Is There Anything Better Than a Great Rehearsal?
Few things are as exciting as a great rehearsal. Everytime I stand in front of a group there is the possibility of a flat rehearsal or an average rehearsal. However, there is always the possibility of a great rehearsal, which is why to get up for the rehearsal. Today was a great rehearsal where I teach at Central City High School, specifically with the Jazz Band. The pace was quick, I was effective, and more importantly the students responded with enthusiasm and vigor.
Today is a great day!!!
Count Basie – Corner Pocket
One of my favorite artists is Count Basie. If I were to list all my favorite Count Basie tunes, my blog may set a record in longest ever. Thanks to Youtube, many of these priceless performances are locked in time. Without question, one of my favorite Count Basie tunes is one by his great guitar player Freddie Green. That would be none other than Corner Pocket. I hope you enjoy this as much and frankly as many times as I have.
Curious about the blues on trombone?
Ever wonder how players get that interesting sound when they are playing the blues or over various jazz forms. One of the tools these musicians use is The Blues Scale. It is a versitile tool that has a variety of applications. The first step is learning it in every key through the Circle of 4ths throughout the range of your instrument.
To help you get started, follow the link for play-a-long recordings of The Blues Scale in 1, 2, and 3 octave versions. Good luck as you begin your journey in a whole new musical universe.
How do the fine arts in schools impact our economy?
This is an interesting article regarding of advocacy of fine arts in our schools, particularly during hard economic times.It mentions how in today’s environment, if you are not able to be inventive in your business it will be a formula for failure.It mentions how much of an economic impact fine arts directly has specifically in North Carolina, and the advantages of the arts in your community can actuallyattract businesses and employers to your community.
The Arts and Arts Education
Central City Jazz Band Site
For my students at Central City, and any person that comes by my site. Below is the link to the jazz band site.You will find Play-A-Long files for the songs we are rehearsing, as well as Blues Scale Exercises, Improvisational Ideas, and Rhythm Section Suggestions.
Central City Jazz Band
Conrad Herwig
My trombone students in the Cedar Rapids area were asking me for trombonist players to emulate. Specifically, they were curious about Jazz Trombonists. There are quite a few, but one of great players recently is Conrad Herwig. There are numerous stories about how students at North Texas would listen to his practice sessions from the hallway. Also, at the Midwest Orchestra and Band Clinics, I saw an exeptional clinic on trombone range, practice techniques, and how it relates to Breath Execution and Understanding. He is someone we can all learn from regarding Trombone, Jazz, and Music.
Jazz Educators of Iowa
Jazz Educators of Iowa is a state organization that provides a variety of exceptional jazz opportunities to Iowa’s jazz students, performers, and educators. They are responsible for the Jazz All State Ensemble that rehearses and performs at the Iowa Bandmasters’ Convention each May. What a great group of people and musicadvocate for jazz education!
Jazz Eductators of Iowa Homepage
Lyrical Playing on the trombone according to Jay Friedman
Repeatedly as I teach trombone in Cedar Rapids, I have students ask about Legato Playing on the trombone. I saw Jay Friedman do a clinic discussing this topic at the International Trombone Festival in Dention, TX. I like his perspective and enjoy his insight. The link to his article is below.