Hi Tomo,
Out of curiosity did you ever study Barry Harris’ approach to playing jazz? I find it very fascinating and was wondering if it was anything you ever explored. Thank you for your time!
Best,
Erik
I have familiar with his approach. Basically simple ways to think jazz harmony.
I am already doing a little similar with my own way.
Thank you.
Tomo
I am just curious that what part did you like?
Do you listen a lot of jazz?
Thank you.
Tomo
Hi Tomo,
I do listen to a good bit of jazz but admittedly have trouble hearing what’s happening. My ear is not that great but I continue to try and develop it every day.
Some of the things I found fascinating are the simplification of jazz harmony with his “creation theory” and how he sees/hears chords not as stationary but as movements….scales of chords…where they alternate between say a M6 and diminished for example. Beautiful stuff!
The concept of building dominant and minor 6th chords by raising (m6) or lowering (7th) each tone in the diminished chord a half step also blew my mind!
Lastly, I enjoyed exploring the descending half step rules he uses and how they naturally help place chord tones and tensions on the strong beats and the chromatic tones on the up beats.
His system just seemed to resonate with me for whatever reason. I’m years (decades?) off from being able to play Jazz convincingly but occasionally enjoy breaking from the fundamentals and exploring. Given my ears I’ve had to approach my musical studies in more of an academic way but there’s not a lot that I love more than music!
Best,
Erik
Thank you for your reply!
Great to hear that! I was going to say that if you don't listen enough jazz then these approach won't work!
I made a little my video response to this topic.
Thank you.
Tomo