Les bases du JAZZ à la GUITARE

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the essential concepts of playing jazz guitar, based on the video "Les bases du JAZZ à la GUITARE" from Guitare Improvisation. Jazz is a unique music style that emphasizes improvisation, making it a perfect genre for guitarists looking to enhance their skills. You'll learn about listening to jazz, understanding sound, chords, accompaniment styles, and improvisation techniques.

Step 1: Listen to Jazz

• Immerse yourself in jazz music to develop an understanding of its nuances.
• Focus on different styles and sub-genres within jazz to find inspiration.
• Pay attention to the improvisational aspects and how musicians interact with each other.

Step 2: Understand the Sound

• Familiarize yourself with the characteristic sound of jazz, including tone and dynamics.
• Experiment with your guitar's settings to achieve a warmer, rounded tone that suits jazz.
• Practice playing with a metronome to internalize the swing feel commonly found in jazz music.

Step 3: Learn the Chords

• Start with basic jazz chords such as major, minor, and dominant seventh chords.
• Explore extended chords like ninths and thirteenths to add complexity to your playing.
• Practice transitioning smoothly between these chords to ensure fluidity in your accompaniment.

Step 4: Explore Various Accompaniment Styles

• Experiment with different accompaniment techniques such as comping, which involves playing rhythmic chords.
• Try fingerstyle and strumming patterns to find what works best for you.
• Incorporate syncopation to add rhythmic interest to your playing.

Step 5: Master Typical Jazz Phrases

• Learn seven typical jazz phrases that can be used during improvisation.
• Practice these phrases in different contexts to understand their application.
• Use these phrases as building blocks for creating your own improvisations.

Step 6: Create Your Own Phrases

• Start crafting original phrases based on the structures you've learned.
• Experiment with variations and alterations to develop a personal style.
• Record your improvisations to track your progress and refine your techniques.

Step 7: Understand Arpeggios

• Learn how to use arpeggios to enhance your improvisation skills.
• Practice arpeggios for different chord types to familiarize yourself with their shapes and sounds.
• Incorporate arpeggios into your solos to create melodic lines that complement your chords.

Step 8: Apply the Three Pillars of Jazz

• Focus on the three pillars: melody, harmony, and rhythm.
• Ensure a balance between these elements in your playing.
• Regularly evaluate your practice to see how well you're integrating these pillars.

Step 9: Explore Modal and Tonal Improvisation

• Understand the difference between modal and tonal improvisation:
  • Modal improvisation relies on scales and modes.
  • Tonal improvisation is based on chord progressions and harmonies.
• Practice improvising in both styles to become a versatile guitarist.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you will build a solid foundation in jazz guitar playing. Start by immersing yourself in jazz music, mastering chords and accompaniment styles, and practicing improvisation techniques. As you progress, continue to refine your skills and explore different aspects of jazz. Happy playing!