Is Jazz the Classical Music of the 21st Century? Reflections on 1959, Debussy, and Ravel
Listening to modern players reminds me of classical impressionists like Debussy." This observation opens the door to the "Classicalization" of Jazz. We explore how the year 1959 changed the genre forever, transforming it from functional dance music into a sophisticated art form that mirrors the harmonic depth of Ravel and Debussy, all while maintaining the vital spark of improvisation.
The 4 Faces of Diminished Chords: Resolution Logic & Upper Structure Triad Pairs
In advanced jazz theory, the Diminished 7th chord is often misunderstood as merely a "spooky" passing chord. In reality, it is a functional powerhouse. Because of its symmetrical nature, a single diminished grip allows you to resolve into four different tonalities. In this post, we destruct the "Four Faces" of the diminished chord and explore how to use Major Triad Pairs to modernize your improvisation.
More Than a Dress Code: The Cultural History of the Jazz Musician's Suit
Why did jazz legends like Miles Davis, Coltrane, and Wes Montgomery always wear suits? Beyond fashion, the suit symbolized dignity, protest, diplomacy, and the elevation of jazz from club music to a global art form.