How to Learn Jazz Swing

Swing is gaining renewed popularity. Dance, rock and other contemporary styles are adopting swing into their performances.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Bass Instruments
• Drum Sets
• Pianos
• Saxophones
• Trombones
• Trumpets
• Big City Swing CD
• Rob McConnell Big Band Christmas CD
• Swing Dance Special CD
• Let's Swing Video

1. Consider that swing is a jazz style. A very important aspect or element of swing is the way rhythm is treated.
2. Remember, eighth notes in non-jazz style are counted evenly: 1 & 2 & 3 & 4 & in a 4-beat measure. This is called playing in twos. Each beat is evenly divided between the downbeat and the upbeat.
3. Note that in swing, two eighth notes in a row are played in threes. The two consecutive notes are not equal.
4. Play the second note of two in a row on the third note of a three-way subdivision.
5. Emphasize - or sometimes connect - the second note to the next note by means of a slur or tie.
6. Learn this technique in performance with other musicians. Listen, feel and imitate to become an intimate part of this mystical mix.
7. Use a slight rhythmic or melodic variation of a "lick" or style that someone else in the musical group uses.

Tips & Warnings

• Relax!
• Subtle accents in unusual areas of a tune are common.
• When a short note (staccato) is played, avoid overdoing any emphasis.
• Avoid using a rapid tempo when initially learning this style. Swing is not speed.