Improvisation - a key feature of Jazz

An emphasis on Improvisation is a distinguishing characteristic of Jazz when compared to other forms and styles of music.

In a typical performance of a Big Band or Combo, featured soloists are given freedom, within the structure of the song, to spontaneously create and play a new or improvised melody based on the player's knowledge and grasp of the music theory and fundamentals he or she has assimilated.

Many are grateful that, thanks to a few very influential musicians, the Guitar has assumed a prominent position in the genre in roles traditionally held by the melodic Brass and Woodwind Instruments.

Many are also appreciative for the Guitar's dual nature that is shared with the Piano and Vibraphone, in that it can also serve as a key component of the Rhythm Section. As a matter of fact, in the absence of Piano, Drums, and Bass, the Guitar, by itself, can serve as the complete rhythm section in and of itself.

Thus, capable Guitarists can supply the complete harmonic and rhythmic structure of the song as accompaniment to the other melodic instruments or singers for their solo excursions.

About / Contact / Home