Rachael B asked:


I have been playing bass guitar for 2 years now, but I still can get better. I am in a school jazz ensemble, any techniques to help me at all? I can read music (bass clef), but have trouble sight-reading, especially when I get nervous.

Any tips would be nice. Thanks!

sight reading music

Birra spanish castle magic asked:


Basically I play bass & i take lessons, my bass teacher has his degree in something to do with jazz & performing arts (ie he knows what the f*ck he is doing) i know how important theory is & from the small bits i’ve learnt off of him it has really helped to improve my understanding of the structure of music.
I’m not wanting to know how to sight-read but more understand how to ehh utilise theory in my playing as in being able to recognise why X bassline sounds good & how i can manipulate the theory i know to play a different bass-line that still works to the same song etc
i’m well aware of the high standard Jazz musicians have in theory (hence why i’m asking fans/players in jazz here)

Is it possible to use books as a main resource to picking this theory up or would a mix of both teacher/books & other musicians knowledge be better?

Sight Reading Music

TBN asked:


Hey everyone! I’ve been playing saxaphone for around 5 years? WELL! I’m currently at the level where I can sight read most of Charlie Parker’s music at a decent tempo, with the correct rhythm and whatnot. I’ve been wanting to pick up tenor for a while since the sound seems so much better (atleast for me). My band director doesn’t want me switching, she said that she’d rather me stay an alto and play the “melodic” or something XD ‘scuse my poor music terms.

SO. I should be able to pick it up rather quick since apparently the fingering is very similar?
But my question is, would I be able to get air into it? I have nice sound and tone for alto, but I’m 5’1, and rather skinny. I’m afraid if I try to play it, it’ll squeak, or just… not come out. How much of a difference is it? Thank you!

How to Read Music for Beginners

Apple J asked:


Hi. I play piano (8th grade+) and I’m thinking about auditioning for the school Jazz Band. But it says they will ask us to sight-read from a ‘Jazz-styled chart’ and I honestly don’t know what that is or how it’s different to normal music notation. Also if you just have any tips on playing jazz well, please answer.
Thanks.

Sight Reading Music

TBN asked:


Well, right now, I can sight read music from Charlie “Bird” Parker quite easily, great tone, sound, the whole package; BUT, I’m absolutely horrible with improvising, so that’s what I’m working on right now. I’m a 14 year old girl who enjoys sax as a hobby. Can someone let me know where am I, skill wise? I’d like to find some harder music as well, any recommendations? Thanks!

How to Sight Read Music