Transcribing Solos for Dummies?

[bachstrad]

I have never attempted to transcribe a solo before and was wondering where a good place to get started was. I've heard of people using software to slow down songs, but do you just use your hearing for notes or do you stick a tuner in front of the speakers? Maybe just sound it out on your trumpet to match pitch? Any advice and help and be appreciated.

[PJN]

Bachstrad,

The main thing is, do not procrastinate! I thought of a bunch of reasons to avoid transcribing. There will always be something.... but I know now that it must be done.

I just finished my first official all the way through transcription. Chet Bakers "Isn't it Romantic" from Chet Baker Boston 1954. This was fun, and I love Chets playing anyway. He swings and plays right from the heart.

I just put the music on and played it over and over and copied the solo using my ear and my horn. I used the Amazing slowdowner from http://www.ronimusic.com to make loops, and only slowed down a couple of really ornamental licks . The rest I was able to do by ear. The loops let you repeat a chosen section. If the solo over all is too fast for you, pick an easier solo. Start at your level, and move up in difficulty.

I can already see the benefit in getting my ear geared up, hearing intervals better, and by playing along with Chet, you get a real feel for the "feel " of his playing. The sauce you know. the nuance. If I just read this solo out of a book I would never play it the way it is on record. Yes, I had to do some work, but I plan to spend some of my practice time from now on transcribing. It was not nearly as hard as I thought it would be.

Good Luck!
_________________
The most important factor in developing the high register is desire, the patience to wait, and the necessary time to acquire it.
Bud Brisbois