Thursday, April 11, 2019
Post-Bop and Avant-Garde Jazz Saxophonist Keith Gamble: Thank You
Post-Bop and Avant-Garde Jazz Saxophonist Keith Gamble: Thank You: Technically, I taught my first lesson when I was an elementary student in fourth or fifth grade. I gave my classmate a clarinet lesson,...
Thank You
Technically, I taught my first lesson when I was an elementary student in fourth or fifth grade. I gave my classmate a clarinet lesson, and in return she gave me a flute lesson. That quid pro quo worked well, even though it was only one lesson in elementary school. I do not know what became of Marie and her family due to the natural transition of life; we move on. I think about this some 50 years later because I am teaching students independently on clarinet, flute, piano, and saxophone. In other words, I am doing now what I did for Marie as a fourth or fifth grader giving a clarinet lesson.
That is how life works, many of us grow into what we decide to do as a career choice. I remember hearing a story about how the late great saxophonist Joe Henderson became a professional musician. Basically, he picked-up saxophone in school as a young student. Henderson joined the military and played saxophone in the military band. He was honorably discharged from his military service playing saxophone, and as Joe Henderson would explain before long he was making his living playing saxophone.
As musicians we all have our stories on how we began. In general, you begin learning to play your instrument, and before long each playing opportunity leads to building your skills in performing music. For many of us in music, if not all participated in recitals, school concerts, community ensemble performances, garage bands, and other performing opportunities. Those performing opportunities I have mentioned go into making professional careers in music.
As I look back on music in my life I have so many people to thank for the rich experiences I have enjoyed. I am grateful to all who have influenced my musical growth, and charted the path for me to teach music to others. I have had, and still enjoy the privilege of teaching music to my students. I also take great pleasure in being a professional musician, and thank those musicians who have been a major influence to me as a musician. I also thank those musicians who share the stage with me. I am honored. Thank you.
That is how life works, many of us grow into what we decide to do as a career choice. I remember hearing a story about how the late great saxophonist Joe Henderson became a professional musician. Basically, he picked-up saxophone in school as a young student. Henderson joined the military and played saxophone in the military band. He was honorably discharged from his military service playing saxophone, and as Joe Henderson would explain before long he was making his living playing saxophone.
As musicians we all have our stories on how we began. In general, you begin learning to play your instrument, and before long each playing opportunity leads to building your skills in performing music. For many of us in music, if not all participated in recitals, school concerts, community ensemble performances, garage bands, and other performing opportunities. Those performing opportunities I have mentioned go into making professional careers in music.
As I look back on music in my life I have so many people to thank for the rich experiences I have enjoyed. I am grateful to all who have influenced my musical growth, and charted the path for me to teach music to others. I have had, and still enjoy the privilege of teaching music to my students. I also take great pleasure in being a professional musician, and thank those musicians who have been a major influence to me as a musician. I also thank those musicians who share the stage with me. I am honored. Thank you.
Sunday, March 3, 2019
Post-Bop and Avant-Garde Jazz Saxophonist Keith Gamble: Greater Detroit Jazz Society
Post-Bop and Avant-Garde Jazz Saxophonist Keith Gamble: Greater Detroit Jazz Society: If you are a jazz fan looking for others who share your passion for jazz, then I have a group for you - Greater Detroit Jazz Society. G...
Greater Detroit Jazz Society
If you are a jazz fan looking for others who share your passion for jazz, then I have a group for you - Greater Detroit Jazz Society. Greater Detroit Jazz Society is dedicated to promoting classic jazz, big band, Dixieland and Swing.
Greater Detroit Jazz Society features concerts and performances in Metropolitan Detroit, such as Jazz at Shield`s now in its 20th year. You can enjoy pizza while listening to some of Detroit areas finest jazz artist on the first and third Saturday monthly. Go on-line to www.greaterdetroitjazzsociety.com to see a list of artist performing at Jazz at Shield`s.
Like barbecue? if so, be sure to check-out Greater Detroit Jazz Society`s Rec Bowl Summer Jazz Series - Jazzin With Some Barbecue. This event is an annual GDJS jazz picnic and potluck held in August, so mark your calendar. Note - this event is for GDJS members and musicians, so I strongly urge you to become a member of Greater Detroit Jazz Society so you can enjoy jazz picnic and potluck at the Rec` Bowl, in Mt. Clemens, MI. The Rec` is a covered outdoor venue that includes a bandstand, sound system, barbecue area, and dance floor. The Rec` Bowl is located at 40 Crocker Blvd., Mt. Clemens, MI 48043.
Another event promoted by GDJS in spring and fall is Terrace Inn Jazz Weekends, in Petoskey, MI. Greater Detroit Jazz Society sponsors two weekends of jazz at historic Terrace Inn in Bay View (Petoskey). A weekend package includes all meals and concerts. Terrace Inn is located at 1549 Glendale Ave, Petoskey, MI 49770. Spring jazz weekend, May 10-12, 2019, featuring David Tatrow and Friends with vocalist Barbara Ware. Fall jazz weekend, is October 25-27, 2019, featuring Roy Heitger`s Cakewalkin` Jazz Band, and Dave Bennett Quartet.
GDJS sponsors Michigan Jazz Festival that occurs every third Sunday of July, in Livonia, MI. This festival takes place on campus at Schoolcraft College. This is a free festival that runs from 12 Noon to 9:00 pm, on Sunday, July 21, 2019.
GDJS also promotes jazz education. GDJS has teamed-up with pianist Scott Gwinnell to develop Metro - Detroit Jazz Workshop now in its 9th year. Scott Gwinnell`s Jazz Workshop is located at Michigan State University Detroit Building. Information on Scott Gwinnell`s Jazz Workshop can be found at www.helpwithjazz.com.
Mardi Gras Party and New Years Eve events for jazz fans is also offered by GDJS. For more information on GDJS events you can receive a bi-monthly newsletter by joining GDJS. Contact Sally Bolle at (248)909-8668, or by email at sally@greaterdetroitjazzsociety.com. You can also contact Membership Director Nancy Blake at (586)610-9871, or by email at lilmagill12@comcast.net
Greater Detroit Jazz Society features concerts and performances in Metropolitan Detroit, such as Jazz at Shield`s now in its 20th year. You can enjoy pizza while listening to some of Detroit areas finest jazz artist on the first and third Saturday monthly. Go on-line to www.greaterdetroitjazzsociety.com to see a list of artist performing at Jazz at Shield`s.
Like barbecue? if so, be sure to check-out Greater Detroit Jazz Society`s Rec Bowl Summer Jazz Series - Jazzin With Some Barbecue. This event is an annual GDJS jazz picnic and potluck held in August, so mark your calendar. Note - this event is for GDJS members and musicians, so I strongly urge you to become a member of Greater Detroit Jazz Society so you can enjoy jazz picnic and potluck at the Rec` Bowl, in Mt. Clemens, MI. The Rec` is a covered outdoor venue that includes a bandstand, sound system, barbecue area, and dance floor. The Rec` Bowl is located at 40 Crocker Blvd., Mt. Clemens, MI 48043.
Another event promoted by GDJS in spring and fall is Terrace Inn Jazz Weekends, in Petoskey, MI. Greater Detroit Jazz Society sponsors two weekends of jazz at historic Terrace Inn in Bay View (Petoskey). A weekend package includes all meals and concerts. Terrace Inn is located at 1549 Glendale Ave, Petoskey, MI 49770. Spring jazz weekend, May 10-12, 2019, featuring David Tatrow and Friends with vocalist Barbara Ware. Fall jazz weekend, is October 25-27, 2019, featuring Roy Heitger`s Cakewalkin` Jazz Band, and Dave Bennett Quartet.
GDJS sponsors Michigan Jazz Festival that occurs every third Sunday of July, in Livonia, MI. This festival takes place on campus at Schoolcraft College. This is a free festival that runs from 12 Noon to 9:00 pm, on Sunday, July 21, 2019.
GDJS also promotes jazz education. GDJS has teamed-up with pianist Scott Gwinnell to develop Metro - Detroit Jazz Workshop now in its 9th year. Scott Gwinnell`s Jazz Workshop is located at Michigan State University Detroit Building. Information on Scott Gwinnell`s Jazz Workshop can be found at www.helpwithjazz.com.
Mardi Gras Party and New Years Eve events for jazz fans is also offered by GDJS. For more information on GDJS events you can receive a bi-monthly newsletter by joining GDJS. Contact Sally Bolle at (248)909-8668, or by email at sally@greaterdetroitjazzsociety.com. You can also contact Membership Director Nancy Blake at (586)610-9871, or by email at lilmagill12@comcast.net
Sunday, December 23, 2018
Post-Bop and Avant-Garde Jazz Saxophonist Keith Gamble: Learning To Play Saxophone
Post-Bop and Avant-Garde Jazz Saxophonist Keith Gamble: Learning To Play Saxophone: We are now in the Christmas season, and that means Christmas programs and performances. Your child or grandchild probably started playi...
Learning To Play Saxophone
We are now in the Christmas season, and that means Christmas programs and performances. Your child or grandchild probably started playing saxophone during the beginning of the school year in September, and by Christmas program you expect your child to be able to play something like "Jingle Bells".
At first glance learning to play any musical instrument can seem intimidating. Saxophone is know different with all those keys and rods. Once you get beyond your initial shock of looking at all those keys and rods, learning to play saxophone can be fun and exciting. Saxophone is actually quite easy, but the awkwardness of saxophone makes it difficult for younger students to play. It is recommended that students begin saxophone at age 10 or 11. Saxophone is not difficult to begin playing, but it can be a challenge to master. Its fingering system is not as difficult to learn as it is on other woodwind instruments, however, it does take a great deal of time to develop a quality tone.
Parents, do not choose a saxophone based on a cheaper value brand. If cost is a major factor purchase a trusted brand name that is used, which is better than purchasing a cheap quality instrument brand new. Talk to a music teacher who can recommend a saxophone that is best for your child. Your instrument should have inside your saxophone case: 1) the body, 2) goose neck, 3) mouthpiece, 4) saxophone reeds, 5) neck strap, and 6) ligature to secure your reed onto your mouthpiece.
Playing saxophone can be a great creative outlet for one`s talents and emotions. Merry Christmas, and enjoy your child`s rendition of "Jingle Bells" played on saxophone.
At first glance learning to play any musical instrument can seem intimidating. Saxophone is know different with all those keys and rods. Once you get beyond your initial shock of looking at all those keys and rods, learning to play saxophone can be fun and exciting. Saxophone is actually quite easy, but the awkwardness of saxophone makes it difficult for younger students to play. It is recommended that students begin saxophone at age 10 or 11. Saxophone is not difficult to begin playing, but it can be a challenge to master. Its fingering system is not as difficult to learn as it is on other woodwind instruments, however, it does take a great deal of time to develop a quality tone.
Parents, do not choose a saxophone based on a cheaper value brand. If cost is a major factor purchase a trusted brand name that is used, which is better than purchasing a cheap quality instrument brand new. Talk to a music teacher who can recommend a saxophone that is best for your child. Your instrument should have inside your saxophone case: 1) the body, 2) goose neck, 3) mouthpiece, 4) saxophone reeds, 5) neck strap, and 6) ligature to secure your reed onto your mouthpiece.
Playing saxophone can be a great creative outlet for one`s talents and emotions. Merry Christmas, and enjoy your child`s rendition of "Jingle Bells" played on saxophone.
Friday, September 28, 2018
Practicing
How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice! Practice is required for anyone who plays music. No doubt practicing music daily can be monotonous, but is necessary to achieve musical goals, dreams, and aspirations. Effective practice is deliberate, reflective, and exploratory. There are no tricks to practicing, but there are techniques musicians employ for skill development. In this blog I will shed light on some issues musicians should consider for practicing.
Create an atmosphere for practicing. You want to be comfortable practicing, but not practicing in a "Lazy Boy" rocking chair. Ideally you want a chair that is ergonomic to you and your posture. Also, you want a practice environment that is quiet, so you can think and focus.
Musicians should work to develop fine motor skills such as fingering exercises. A quality method book recommended by a music teacher is a good start. Practice techniques should develop skills in aural awareness, visual, and processing. Using a metronome is a valuable tool, but students should not become depended upon using a metronome, but only for timing issues and concerns. Tap your foot or toe to keep time while playing music.
There are 15 major scales, but in a 12 tone system three scales/keys are enharmonic. Learning all 15 major scales fluently will take some years of study, but no time better than the present to get started. Learn a scale. Once you have mastery over that scale make it part of your daily warm-up. Let your method book or teacher be your guide.
As you develop skills in music your exercises and solo pieces become more complicated. Slowly work through while learning your solo. Once you are comfortable playing through your music, begin placing expressive qualities such as articulation markings, dynamics, and other expressive markings into your solo. Next, begin speeding-up your tempo.
A thorough knowledge of scales and chords is essential for improvisation practice. Improvisation is a highly developed skill that requires many prerequisite studies before trying. I recommend discussing with your teacher, or partnering with a jazz musician to learn improvisation.
Get a music teacher. A music teacher can provide you with years of knowledge and expertise in learning your instrument, and music in general. Daily practice is important, but knowing what to practice is essential. A music teacher can put you on an organized and systematic plan for learning your instrument and music.
Create an atmosphere for practicing. You want to be comfortable practicing, but not practicing in a "Lazy Boy" rocking chair. Ideally you want a chair that is ergonomic to you and your posture. Also, you want a practice environment that is quiet, so you can think and focus.
Musicians should work to develop fine motor skills such as fingering exercises. A quality method book recommended by a music teacher is a good start. Practice techniques should develop skills in aural awareness, visual, and processing. Using a metronome is a valuable tool, but students should not become depended upon using a metronome, but only for timing issues and concerns. Tap your foot or toe to keep time while playing music.
There are 15 major scales, but in a 12 tone system three scales/keys are enharmonic. Learning all 15 major scales fluently will take some years of study, but no time better than the present to get started. Learn a scale. Once you have mastery over that scale make it part of your daily warm-up. Let your method book or teacher be your guide.
As you develop skills in music your exercises and solo pieces become more complicated. Slowly work through while learning your solo. Once you are comfortable playing through your music, begin placing expressive qualities such as articulation markings, dynamics, and other expressive markings into your solo. Next, begin speeding-up your tempo.
A thorough knowledge of scales and chords is essential for improvisation practice. Improvisation is a highly developed skill that requires many prerequisite studies before trying. I recommend discussing with your teacher, or partnering with a jazz musician to learn improvisation.
Get a music teacher. A music teacher can provide you with years of knowledge and expertise in learning your instrument, and music in general. Daily practice is important, but knowing what to practice is essential. A music teacher can put you on an organized and systematic plan for learning your instrument and music.
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