Lesson

Ostinato Pattern

This is an article recently written for PAS' magazine Percussive Notes by Gustavo Agatiello. Gustavo did a great job transcribing and analyzing Joe's solo on the standard "It Could Happen To You". As always, Joe is playing brilliantly on this track.

The playing took place during a long weekend that Joe, Gustavo and I spent together at my house in December 2009. We had a great time picking each other's brains, sharing improvisational concepts as well doing some serious cooking. Joe makes a great chicken cutlet dish.

Welcome to the new advanced group on Vibesworkshop.com.

We have two members so far. This is for advanced players only. Players who really really are putting time in on the instrument. In order to be in the group you have to do the assignments and submit them and do them perfectly. This is a group that will require hard work.

Anyone in this group that performs at this level will get certain perks.

1. A skype lesson (once in a while) with me
2. Letters of recommendation (from me for now, hopefully from others).

This beautiful little E- prelude by Chopin adapts well into a tune format (see pdf lead sheet attached). The changes are interesting and fun to improvise on. I think it makes a great solo piece. The long sustained melody notes are perfect for vibes.

Gerry Mulligan recorded a version of this piece with his group. You can listen to it on Youtube.