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markp Heavyweight Member
Joined: 15 Feb 2005 Posts: 2814 Location: Coarsegold, CA
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Posted: Wed Dec 02, 2020 6:30 pm Post subject: how to play background (pads?) |
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I've been playing in a jam session with two horns, bass and drums. We mostly play standards.
With such a small group and no chording instrument, I sometimes want to play some backgrounds while the other players are soloing, or I want to improvise simple harmonies.
Is this what some people call "pads," or does that term just apply to whole notes?
My attempts often fall pretty flat. I try to employ a hint on improvising, i.e. playing thirds and sevenths of chords and trying to find a path through the changes. When I come to a b5 or #11, or other extension, I try to play it.
Can someone offer some other tips or guidance? I have been doing some practicing of this skill using play-alongs, and my fellow band members encourage me to keep trying.
I love the way master improvisers do this, sounding so hip, finding the perfect notes. |
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khedger Heavyweight Member
Joined: 12 Mar 2008 Posts: 754 Location: Cambridge, MA
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Posted: Wed Dec 02, 2020 8:37 pm Post subject: |
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The term 'pad' (at least as I've heard it) usually refers to a sustained chord and these days usually played on a synth. I think what you're attempting to do are more accurately termed contrapuntal accompaniment. It sounds like your basic approach (3rds and 7ths etc.) is the correct one. You can try:
- play along with records and work on constructing these contrapuntal lines against the melodies of jazz tunes.
- use play alongs and practice constructing these contrapuntal lines over the changes of the tunes
- listen to Chet Baker with the Gerry Mulligan pianoless quartet. He's a friggin' MASTER at this....
keith |
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Richard III Heavyweight Member
Joined: 22 May 2007 Posts: 2611 Location: Anacortes, WA
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Posted: Tue Dec 29, 2020 9:31 am Post subject: |
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I've been doing the same thing. Play along with recordings.
But it also depends on what the bass player is doing. There are many backing tracks available.
It also depends on the style of jazz. Remember that it is a language and sometimes too much thought leads you astray. Try singing an accompanying part and see what comes out. _________________ Richard
Conn 22B Trumpet
York Eminence Model 4028 Cornet
1903 Conn The Wonder Cornet |
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