Here's a new lesson on using common tones.

I've always liked this piece. The harmonic movement in one section sounds very modern to me. It was probably written originally for a keyboard, but I guess could also have been for an ensemble.

There's not too much to worry about dampening wise. Just keep it sounding as clean and resonant as possible. The manuscript is attached.

Hey,

While I've had an incredible time, I'm now anxious to get home and back into my grind. I definitely miss all the work I put into the site, and especially all of you guys. Although, these days I'm certainly checking things out via an Ipad, Iphone and Macbook. So it's not that bad huh?

This is certainly paradise, hanging out practicing and reading all day. I stay up every night until about 3am just to read and check out the ocean. Add to that a couple of Dutch neighbors who like to swim naked and visually it's incredible here!

Todd C. brought up a very interesting point in another post that read and I think it might make good conversation on its own.

Hello everyone,

Here's the 2nd part to the vocabulary lesson. Please note at around 5:15, I'm referring to a chord that is F maj, but it is actually C7. In fact, it even sounds like the line fits over an Fmaj, but that's because Gm7-C7-Fmaj are pretty closely related. Enjoy!

First of all, your chord has to be complete with no repetitive notes.
Let's take a CM7, in that form (for instance) : C G B E, called N°1. How to find ALL others forms of this chord (it's babies) ?
Then, write down the normal sequence of a CM7 : C E G B C E G B....., called N°2

Further to Gary's report on Warren's last gig, I got in contact with him through facebook and he nicely allowed me to upload this beautiful picture!! Only good vibes! I love it!! :o)

I had the great pleasure to see the Christian McBride band a couple of days ago, featuring vibist Warren Wolf. I got to know Warren casually about ten years ago when he was finishing up at Berklee, and I haven't had the chance to hear him play again until now. I knew, just from reading his name here and there that he was doing well and getting a reputation as a strong player, so I was looking forward to the performance.

I just finished practicing and was heading out to a gig and I saw this sunset. For me I had never seen a sunset like this. It was so inspiring.

btw - I personally think we should all document our lives and travels as vibe players, talk about our gigs, post cool photos and videos and really make a record of it all. I'm still blown away by Gary's articles and photos that he's posted. I wish more of the heavy pros would really post their history here.

What could be more inspiring than for all of us to see all of our worlds, what we're up to and what we're doing.