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Author: Amanda Rose
Date: 2001-02-09 19:12
I am playing this song for jazz ensemble. Any tips on the solo? I'm just not really sure where to go for it. Is there a Woody recording out there that I ought to get my hands on?
Amanda Rose
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Author: Bob Sparkman
Date: 2001-02-09 23:08
Yes, Amanda, at least 2 recordings - check Amazon to see if they have been reissued. "Woodchopper's Ball" is just a 12 bar blues, and once you learn the blues, you have entered the heart of jazz improvisation. An easy example - you can play the "In The Mood" riff over "Woodchoppers" and it will work, as will the "One O'Clock Jump" riff(s). The original Woody Herman Band was billed as "The Band That Plays The Blues" and it was a marvel of its time (1939-40).
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Author: William
Date: 2001-02-10 20:08
The "usual" practice in playing this solo is to play it pretty much "straight" first time through, then jazz it up the second, but not too much. Remember, Woody was noted for the quality of his sidemen and his leadership (all of his musicians loved him)--he was not noted for his ability on the clarinet or sax--he was pretty much just good enough to get by. So, to honor Woody, swing, but don't get too carried away. Good clarineting.
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