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Thinking of Chords as Melodies

So I am in Texas visiting my folks, which means I don't have a vibe with me. I used to get really bummed about this. Having to spend a week or so away from my instrument. I have since come to look at it as a forced "put yourself in a box" situation. I still have a keyboard here, so I can practice music, and it forces me to practice specific things. This week I decided to focus on comping/ voicings/ and learning tunes in other keys through the "vehicle" of chords/ voicings. I found this article (for a guitar magazine as you can tell by the tab) by my old professor.

Joe Locke New CD - Signing - Available Now!

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Joe Locke just released his brand new CD with Geoffrey Keezer and gang - Signing!

Upon his own words: "This is the CD I've wanted to make for a long time, my first for MOTEMA. It was a joy to create this music with Geoffrey Keezer, Terreon Gully & Mike Pope. They are astounding on this recording!"

On the link below you can watch a beautiful exerpt on vid, get the album in all formats, full or by title, lead sheets, etc: http://store.joelocke.com/albums/signing/

TOTM - Rhythm Changes - Parker Videos

When I think Rhythm Changes, I instantly think Parker. Here are some videos of Bird over the form. Note his contrasts. He does an amazing job of switching from harmonic generalization (Bb triad or blues material) to harmonic specificity (hitting chord tones of the changes). Also, as always, his phrasing is fresh and unpredictable. With Rhythm Changes everyone is chasing the bird.

Rhythm Changes - Our New TOTM

Man, it's the end of the semester here. I'm working my ass off between gigs, students, classes and setting up my summer.

Musicians HAVE to think at least one season ahead. It's spring and if it isn't happening it probably won't. Get to summer. I bet the heavy cats are thinking 2 seasons or a year ahead. OK.

Anyway, let me officially announce we are working on Rhythm changes now. This is our tune of the month, officially.

So, why don't you guys blog about rhythm changes. What do you want to know? What do you think about??

Forum Topic: Motor talk

Hi All-

My motor troubles have had me thinking about that aspect of the instrument; been wondering what it means to YOU.

It's a funny thing; one of the last truly mechanical effects being used in contemporary music; that and the B3 with a Leslie are the only ones I can think of.

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