Why Some Master Musicians Refuse to Listen Back: A Weekend Reflection on Honest Ears
A pianist friend once told me listening to his own recording felt like tasting his own vomit. Peter Bernstein and Ron Carter refuse to listen to playback at all. What does it mean — and what does it tell us about how to practice?
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.
Play Like You Mean It: The Musician’s Mindset and the Power of Consistency
Instead of listening to the music, does your brain turn into a calculator during solos? The "Anxiety of the Empty Bar" kills creativity. Learn why internalizing the melody—not counting—is the secret to never getting lost again, and how adopting the "Long Game" mindset builds true mastery.
Stop Counting Bars: How Melody and Guide Tones Navigate the Changes
Panic strikes when you lose count of the bars. But pros don't count—they sing. Discover how to use Voice Leading and "Melody Authority" to navigate chord changes effortlessly, turning your solos from math equations into music.