How to survive Jazz Workshops
For sheer raw courage in the face of adversity, then your first bungee jump or your first jazz workshop are on a par.
Jazz Smugglers Workshops. One of the best to start with, very friendly, easy-going, good for more experienced players too, they can end up in the band too. See About Jazz Smugglers
How to build your own jazz quintet.
Start with twenty five jazz players in your band. Don’t fall out with anyone because you might need them as deps after they leave. If you ask people to join you then they’ll want to know much they’ll be paid. Better that they ask you
How to get gigs
Ring up your local authority and ask for their list of venues with an entertainment licence. (After 2005 starts, ask again, because the licences rules will change.)
Tips for preparing to improvise
There is a fair amount of work to be done looking at a piece before you pick up your instrument – the shape of it, the key changes, what can play over a sequence, the change notes, the common notes.
To help you play better jazz
On the links page you’ll find some references to sites which allow you to download free jazz theory. Much of it is very good indeed.
Studying jazz properly
Chichester College full time courses in jazz led by Adrian Kendon. Reports from students are excellent. See our links section for all this
Jazz examinations and jazz assessments
They are run by the Associated Board of Royal Schools of Music. They’ll also give you a personal assessment of your playing if you want – ugh!
Use Band in a Box for your backing tracks
If you want to practise to a backing track, then you do not need very complicated software. Use Band in a Box. You can also download some Real Books straight into it. See the links page.
Find a jazz teacher
Go to the West Sussex Section for a list of local jazz tutors. For the rest of the country see the jazz sites section.
