Is jazz dying? That idea seems to be popular online right now.
I saw a TED presentation on the ‘death’ of classical music too.
Jazz is not as popular as it used to be. Neither is classical music. But many people have not been exposed to it.
In the video, Benjamin Zander gets a standing ovation for a simple piece from Chopin. I sincerely think that people can connect with jazz pieces as well.
Good Afternoon Neal,
What exercises/steps did you do to improve your ear training?
(-Delroy)
Hey Delroy,
As I have played with my R&B/Soul band that turned into a blues band, I haven’t read any music, just have been listening. The chord progressions aren’t too complicated, but that has still helped my ear.
Using Aebersold CDs would simulate that.
I also started transcribing- some Stanley Turrentine. And just working on recognizing chords, notes, etc with my teacher can help..
Another place which I have neglected a little and will go to again is http://musictheory.net That site lets you practice listening to intervals, chords, etc and quizzes you on it. I highly recommend it. And it doesn’t cost anything.
I have a book about ear training which I haven’t gotten too far into and I’m having my teacher look to see if he has something on it.
The most important thing for ear training (or anything else) is making constant small steps forward.
-Neal
Want to play saxophone, but feeling lost and not sure how to get started?
In this online/downloadable class you will see methodical lessons in a sequence and you can get feedback and ask questions at any point.
Learn more
Want to take your playing to the next level?
You’ll learn fundamental saxophone skills, building past the basics. Master rhythms. Learn about phrasing, tone, and more. Here you will get feedback which is crucial to developing good habits.
Learn more