Learn How to Improvise:
Use the Melody!
In this lesson, we explore how to help students learn to take an improvised jazz solo using the melody of a song. Using the Sonny Rollins blues head “Sonnymoon for Two”, Miles and Devin demonstrate how to change the rhythm of the melody to create their own unique solo.
Steps:
1.) Learn a melody such as “Sonnymoon for Two” or “Bag’s Groove” with your ensemble. The attached “Riff-Based Blues Heads” worksheet will give you several ideas to choose from. Try to teach it by ear before providing written music for your students!
2.) Using syncopated, swinging rhythms, have students use the same notes from that original melody to create a new solo.
Tips:
The first “success” when introducing this concept could be to encourage a student to simply restate the original melody alone. Many students are overwhelmed by the idea of standing up and soloing, so be sure to clap for each student that successfully completes a 12-bar solo. Then, encourage them to observe spaces in the melody where they can repeat notes or add new notes.
Consider working up your own short, memorable musical ideas using this melody that you can teach your students in a 2-measure call and response fashion. Then, pick a volunteer to lead the class in a 2-measure call and response. Be sure to reflect on the process, asking both the leader and followers what was successful and challenging about the process.
Want to send this video to your students? Use this link: https://youtu.be/CSkwd9jXwck