all-levels

Scrapple is cool tune mainly because it's a variation of rhythm changes. Instead of I VI II V for the first 4 bars, it's ii V and then the rest of rhythm changes.

Here are my assignments.

1. 2 line studies and two chord studies. Do one of each (you pick).
2. Play the melody in at least 2 keys (it's a great ii V study!) Fill in the chords on the studies.
3. Play the tune solo, take a chorus, comp for a chorus and then take the tune out.

It's great to play fast but playing slow is an equally monumental challenge. Phrasing, time, space,....some of the problems to deal with. I did one take and thought I could maybe do better with a second one but I wanted to share the imperfection.

Here's the whole cd: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/donna-lee/id400295067

Tom Lawton is a truly great piano player!

Thanks Barryk for reminding me.

I was inspired by Tony's "Donna Lee" and decided to give it a try. I kinda liked it until the last chorus, where it got a bit "fuzzy".

Beautiful composition by Ralph Towner as played on the superb recording Matchbook featuring Gary Burton and Ralph Towner. I really enjoy listening to and playing duo since it can be so intimate, subtle and interactive. Gary and Ralph's playing on the recording is brilliant and impeccable. So many gems on that recording. I remember when Matchbook was released in 1975. I was taking private lessons with Gary at the time and we were playing those tunes from the recording. Also wonderful sound and production from the ECM label headed by Manfred Eicher.

For this week:

I've posted an Epic Etude. With 4 parts.

Part 1 - Double Stops and Very Rhythmic
Part 2 - Chord Etude
Part 3 - Rhythmic Solo
Part 4 - Chord Melody Solo

I've also posted a quarter note solo.

If you're going for the certificate:

Beginners:

1. Play the Melody
2. Play the Chords
3. Play the Quarter Note Solo

Intermediate/Advanced

Hi all,

Here are some exercises and etudes for Fried Bananas. Pick two of them and post. This will count towards a pass for the week. Good luck!

Behn