Marimba variations on Henry Mancini's "Moon River". Some spur of the moment improv on this classic song. I enjoy the orchestration potential, expansive range and varied colors of the marimba.
Hey all, I'm starting a new lesson series with the goal of transferring some pianist language over to the vibes. I am a pianist and a vibraphonist, so a lot of my practicing has been doing just this.
The first is on Oscar Peterson, who is actually, I think, one of the best-suited pianists to adapt to the vibes, and I play with this stuff all the time.
Transcription of solo using Upper Structure Triads on "What Is This Thing Called Love". (Thanks to Nico Chara for the transcription) The improv concept explanation and the first chorus analysis is included in The Complete Guide To Improvisation Volume Two.
For more on the topic, including the specific USTs being used, here are page excerpts from the book:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6z3NzPm4yYpckJlWjlwdm9DTXM/view?fbcli…
“Lucky Southern” by Keith Jarrett. It’s been sort of a Berklee standard through the years. A fun song to play with an AABA form.
“Who Can I Turn To” - inspired by pianist Bill Evans’ version of this classic song. Focusing on some concepts from my upcoming book Solo Vibraphone Playing. The book will include many concepts from my studies with Gary Burton as well as many others gleaned from the many great jazz pianists. It may take awhile to get it out but stay tuned.
"Everything Happens To Me" - Exploring on the vibraphone while playing over the piano track.
Always a work in progress but also fun at the same time.
Using the first 16 bars of Exercise #1 from Ted Reed's classic book, ideas are adapted to the balafon in a variety of styles to build independence.
Download the attached excerpt from Ted's book.
Play the head along with me.
Then we trade 8s. Remember it's AABA Dmin Dmin Ebmin Dmin
I'll start off the 8s. That means you are only soloing in Dmin. However you have to comp for me when it goes to Ebmin7. So work on your chords and solo in Dminor.
I can put up a version where you solo first that means you will solo in both Dmin and Ebmin
Get it?
Play along, record it and post it!
I kept my solo simple. Maybe you can transcribe some of my 8s? Do some ear training?
Its been a while since I've posted anything so here's a tune I've been working on, no comping on this just bass drums and vibes melody and solo. Feedback welcome Thanks
"Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans? - dedicated to the late great pianist and music educator Ellis Marsalis. Having fun playing some traditional jazz on the marimba and hats.