Reflection: Week 9: 12 – 16 March 2012

Topic (Theory Class): 12 bar Blues Performance Rehearsal

Reflection Question: How is my understanding about improvisation especially in blues?

Improvisation means the creation of a musical composition while it is being performed. The art of improvisation is critical in jazz. The blues is built using a simple 12 – measure chorus comprised of three chords, C⁷, F⁷, and G⁷. Thus, the melodies consist of the chord tones only. 

Instrument Class

I started warming up using C scale as usual by different beats (1/4, 1/3, ½ and speed skill). Then, I practiced playing blues scale. My instrument teacher asked me and the other woodwind students to play the instrument using blues scale with the arrangement that I compose on my own on my mind as I play the instrument. Now, I understand how to apply improvisation using blues scale.

My teacher usually checks our playing (major scales, blues scale, the tonics) one by one. I was waiting for my turn by using the time to practice my composition. I feel that I need to make my lips more relax while blowing the flute so I can perform better.

Practice Videos 

1. G blues scale

Since it was the first time I play G blues scale, I think it is still understood if I haven't been able to play it fluently. I did some mistake at around 1:10, but it is alright because I will practice more in order to cover the mistakes in the future.

2. C blues scale

During this term, I often practice C blues scale during the instrument class, thus no wonder that I've been able to play it fluently. However, I still need to practice more especially on my breathing because on the video it is obvious that my breathing skill is quite messed up.