Reflection: Week 3: January 30 – February 3, 2012

Topic: “The Beginning of Jazz” and “Improvisation in Jazz” Essay

Reflection Question: How did I do my essay and how did it affect me when learning and applying jazz?

I was able to finish the essays on time and by following the required number of words. However, I didn’t do the essay with complete structure (Introduction – Body – Conclusion). Nevertheless, I still cited all the resources I used to write the essays. Also, I feel satisfied with the essays because actually doing the essays itself brings me benefits. It encouraged me to do some research and by the research done I was able to gain my knowledge regarding on the history of jazz and the role of improvisation in jazz. However, I still have no clear ideas on how to apply improvisation in jazz. Thus, I have to learn it on the instrument class.

Instrument Class

Since I haven’t been able to play F scale well after the instrument class last week, I continued practice F major scale using ¼, 1/3, and ½ beat. Then, I practiced speed skill. I still haven’t done well in my breathing so sometimes I lost some notes. I have improved my speed skill yet I still need more practices at home so I wouldn’t just practice major scales all the time in instrument class.

Practice Videos
1. F major scale

After watching the practice video above, I feel that my speed skill has improved. I didn't miss any notes nor press wrong notes. Nonetheless, I can't see any progress on my breathing skill which makes my performance not really good to listen. My instrument teacher suggested me to practice my breathing everyday but I don't know how to manage my time to do so.

2. Ibu Pertiwi

I think my performance in playing this "Ibu Pertiwi" song is quite messy because I don't really remember the 2nd until 4th line of this song. However,  I am glad that I am able to practice national song for my weekly practice.This kind of practice doesn't only gain my skill in playing flute, but also gain my knowledge in Indonesian national songs. I should play such a song more.