
Happy New Year! Once we're through the holidays, most of us start to come up for air and think about playing and practicing music again. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just beginning your jazz journey, here are 20 quick ideas to get your musical wheels turning:
Try playing a tune you know in a key 1/2 step higher than normal.
Listen to any Count Basie tune and tap quarter notes along with the recording on your desk with a pencil.
Play the melody of a ballad at 40 bpm and try to relax while you do it.
Over a backing track - on a tune you like - sing two solo choruses like you're a horn
player.
Sing the melody of "Stardust" along with a backing track, lyrics too.
Learn to sing the root notes of a "Rhythm Changes" chord progression.
Make a list of 10 jazz tunes you're interested in learning.
Find a local jazz jam session you'd like to check out!
Sing along with Miles Davis's solo on "So What" (From the record "Kind of Blue")
Pick a biography of a famous jazz musician you'd like to read this year.
Try to arrange an informal jam session with just you and one other person, playing duo together. This can be any two instruments.
Write down the names of every jazz trumpet player you can think of without using Google or any other source. Can you get 5? 10? 15? 20? 50?
Find one "Live at the Village Vanguard" recording and listen to the whole thing. (There are many)
Download a new metronome app. Play along with it a little.
Play a solo with your eyes closed.
Pick one solo you'd be interested in transcribing.
Pick one of these interviews of a jazz musician and read it. (Seriously, they are all so good. This is often where our Director goes when he is looking for inspiration)
Watch a jazz documentary.
Make a list of five jazz records you'd recommend to someone who had never heard jazz before.
Play the melody of a bossa nova tune you know, but with a swing feel.
These activities are designed to challenge you while keeping the joy of music-making alive. They range from technical exercises to creative explorations, each offering a unique way to deepen your connection with jazz. Remember, every great musician started somewhere, and consistent, engaged practice - even in small doses - can lead to remarkable growth.
Want to share your experiences or need guidance? Join our community at The Jazz Workshop, where we celebrate every step of your musical journey.
Let's make this year your most musical yet!