suggestion on jazz music?

Eric..thanks for putting up the pictures. I hope this will stir up some interest among serious drummers here.

Perhaps you may want to comment on your own experience on Sunday as I have no wish to blow my own trumpet.

8 hours (4 of Jazz and 4 of Pop) of solid jamming every Sunday is serious business. Anyone who says there is nowhere to play with other serious musicians now knows there is this opportunity.
 
Blofeld said:
Eric..thanks for putting up the pictures. I hope this will stir up some interest among serious drummers here.

Perhaps you may want to comment on your own experience on Sunday as I have no wish to blow my own trumpet.

8 hours (4 of Jazz and 4 of Pop) of solid jamming every Sunday is serious business. Anyone who says there is nowhere to play with other serious musicians now knows there is this opportunity.
Click to expand...

OK Bro Blofeld - I will be real frank here basing on my own perspective on what I saw that Sunday.

I am quite glad at least I get to play one-song.....and I didn't know when the Trading starts (hahahaha !), but when you said tradeing now Eric - I trade ...That was fun. The most Happy Part was when you said to me "Eric, you play much better than before when you started out in Jazz, and that's because you have a very good Drum Instructor (That's Alvin my Sifu)...thank you so much for the kind compliment as I've been only learning from Alvin for (nine & a half months only - which is actually not too long a duration as a student). but Yes - Alvin is a great Drumming Instructor (the best I've ever had so far - and this is the Truth)

And I did learn something very important that day too at the Jam - - The environment at Tanglin CC Jam Room (though Big) require he Drummer not too play too loud but to exercise control and play a little softer (and I was indeed playing loud that day, 1st time there mah -cause I didn't know it myself till you told me thank you ......but it's so true isn't it - Playing Hard is Easier (most people can just play loud most of the time) but Playing It Soft is much more difficult as we need to exercise Greater Sticks Control to ensure that the Drums blends in with the volume of the Music the Band is playing.

However Frank - I hope you wouldn't mind if I were to ask you a question here:---

I notice most of the Jazz Player there (are mostly Regulars and have great experiences there), so when you guys play together - you all seems to really understand each other very well (you would just know what & when to do what after jamming together for a such long time)..........most importantly very very comfortable with each other there in the style they are playing.

A New-Commer (especially one that is not so experience in Jazz like me for instance, especially now still consider as in an still Early Learning-Stage) - if he/me (the Drummer) goes out and jam with these more experience players there and if (me/we which is not as Proficient as many other there or the more experience drummers like you) ------ Would the rest of the Musician thinks/feels - -- - - - eg "Aiyah this guy cant play lah or he is not really good lah - change, change let's change the drummer whether they be thinking this in their Heart or worst out-spokenly by words to us).....I really dont know as I did not experience this there (since I only Jam one-single song) before everyone comes in. In any learning situation, when a Learning-Jazz Drummer trys to play or do certain things (in a Jam Session) especially when they are very new can at many an occassion - Throw an Entire Band-Off in a situation like that - Is this acceptable and people there are tolerant enough for this learning and sharing environment?

I asked this: -
Because if that should really happens - Most Jazz-Learning-Drummers here within Soft, would not dare to go up there and play/learn - Dont get me wrong, I'm not saying that there is (but there are so many Musicians which are people there and they will all think and see things very differently).

And, as you are the Jam-Master managing Tanglin CC Jazz Jam Session there (you're in Charge) ......Can you kindly give us (especially the Newer-Drummers here who wanted to know more about Tanglin CC Jazz Jam if they wanna learn to play with others there) what's your honest opinion on the above from the way you see it there.

PS:- I asked this because, as I was jamming my 1 and only song with the Band, the Lead-Guitarist keeps on turning his back looking at me (thats' ok - and he was shaking his head left & Right as in "No, No No" - I am cool with that) but not so nice.eee isn't it, when you were giving me advice as I'm Playing.....that was the reason why I brought this question up...

Thanks Bro, but you were great, really sharing Jazz & Drumming with me on that day.and Opppppp..I forgot to add - I like your Brush Work - they are nice.eeeeeeeeeeeee

Eric

Thank You.
 
Last edited:
Hi Eric..my comments as follows. Hope it helps.


RudimentalDrummer said:
OK Bro Blofeld - I will be real frank here basing on my own perspective on what I saw that Sunday.

I am quite glad at least I get to play one-song.....and I didn't know when the Trading starts (hahahaha !), but when you said tradeing now Eric - I trade ...That was fun. The most Happy Part was when you said to me "Eric, you play much better than before when you started out in Jazz, and that's because you have a very good Drum Instructor (That's Alvin my Sifu)...thank you so much for the kind compliment as I've been only learning from Alvin for (nine & a half months only - which is actually not too long a duration as a student). but Yes - Alvin is a great Drumming Instructor (the best I've ever had so far - and this is the Truth)...I cannot comment on Alvin's teaching but you certainly showed more confidence on Sunday than I have seen inyou before..that's progress.

And I did learn something very important that day too at the Jam - - The environment at Tanglin CC Jam Room (though Big) require he Drummer not too play too loud but to exercise control and play a little softer (and I was indeed playing loud that day, 1st time there mah -cause I didn't know it myself till you told me thank you ......but it's so true isn't it - Playing Hard is Easier (most people can just play loud most of the time) but Playing It Soft is much more difficult as we need to exercise Greater Sticks Control to ensure that the Drums blends in with the volume of the Music the Band is playing. It's not a matter of having to play soft all the time but being able toplay at a level that matches the rest of the musicians. Jazz is not very loudly amplified so one cannot just wahck away like in rock or trash music. But sometimes you can play louder depending on the song and the number of players etc..esp if there are horns.

However Frank - I hope you wouldn't mind if I were to ask you a question here:---

I notice most of the Jazz Player there (are mostly Regulars and have great experiences there), so when you guys play together - you all seems to really understand each other very well (you would just know what & when to do what after jamming together for a such long time)..........most importantly very very comfortable with each other there in the style they are playing. It's a combination of experience, knowing the music, and having the technical facility to play what one hears in one's head that compliments the music. This takes a lot of practice and playing with other musicians. One must also approach the piece of music to be played with some concept of what works and what doesn't... being able to understand the score (even if you cannot sight read it..helps)

A New-Commer (especially one that is not so experience in Jazz like me for instance, especially now still consider as in an still Early Learning-Stage) - if he/me (the Drummer) goes out and jam with these more experience players there and if (me/we which is not as Proficient as many other there or the more experience drummers like you) ------ Would the rest of the Musician thinks/feels - -- - - - eg "Aiyah this guy cant play lah or he is not really good lah - change, change let's change the drummer whether they be thinking this in their Heart or worst out-spokenly by words to us).....I really dont know as I did not experience this there (since I only Jam one-single song) before everyone comes in. In any learning situation, when a Learning-Jazz Drummer trys to play or do certain things (in a Jam Session) especially when they are very new can at many an occassion - Throw an Entire Band-Off in a situation like that - Is this acceptable and people there are tolerant enough for this learning and sharing environment? Did you feel any alienation on Sunday? Indeed I thought the guys there were quite tolerant and helpful, and they picked the easier songs for you to play. However if you are struggling and the song is in danger of crashing, they might stop and review it with you. They know you are there to learn so they put up with it. Of course if you are driving with a P or L plate, sometimes other motorists may just overtake you..and be thankful they don't horn you ..hahaha !! Bottom line..whenyou are trying to learn some new stuff be thick skinned and just go for it. Remember there are other newbies among the jammers on other instruments.

I asked this: -
Because if that should really happens - Most Jazz-Learning-Drummers here within Soft, would not dare to go up there and play/learn - Dont get me wrong, I'm not saying that there is (but there are so many Musicians which are people there and they will all think and see things very differently). I think the process is the same anywhere...you won't make an omelette until you break some eggs eh? Nobody is trying to intimidate anyone but if you feel intimidated perhaps it's your own fear or ego working. Never mind..first come and observe..then try a bit ..then try a bit more...ian't that how we all get started?

And, as you are the Jam-Master managing Tanglin CC Jazz Jam Session there (you're in Charge) ......Can you kindly give us (especially the Newer-Drummers here who wanted to know more about Tanglin CC Jazz Jam if they wanna learn to play with others there) what's your honest opinion on the above from the way you see it there. It has been my policy to bring in as many fresh blood as I can. We have seen young La Salle students dropping in, young NUS players and a number of expats. Many were green to start with but some ended up with gigs after they honed their skills at our jams. If there is a demand we may even hold rhythm section workshops and specific clinics related to jazz drumming. The beauty of our set up is that we always have good bass and keyboard players hanging around, and the emphasis is on the music, not the instrument.

PS:- I asked this because, as I was jamming my 1 and only song with the Band, the Lead-Guitarist keeps on turning his back looking at me (thats' ok - and he was shaking his head left & Right as in "No, No No" - I am cool with that) but not so nice.eee isn't it, when you were giving me advice as I'm Playing.....that was the reason why I brought this question up... I did not see that..anyway that guitarist (old guy) is a bit ngiaow and he gets hantum by others sometimes..part of the deal but in a friendly way. You should not get bothered. Most of the regulars there are quite understanding, I am sure you agree.

Thanks Bro, but you were great, really sharing Jazz & Drumming with me on that day.and Opppppp..I forgot to add - I like your Brush Work - they are nice.eeeeeeeeeeeee
IT's always been there and I have always been around too..it's just that the younger drummers are too focussed on other things to even bother.
Eric

Thank You.
Click to expand...
 
Last edited:
When I say serious drummers, I do not mean serious in demeanour. What I mean are drummers who are serious about improving themselves and learning their craft to to best of their ability. Drummers are also musicians in that they are an essential part of most modern music. But because drummers do not play melodies or harmonies, drummers should be able to compensate by being able to play as many genres of music as possible and not just restrict themselves to just one style or genre of music. The whole idea about drumming is not really to see who can do the most complicated drum solos or the fastest single stroke rolls...it's really about being part of the music and given the music the rhythmic feel and energy.


blurred said:
define serious drummer?
u mean a drummer with a serious personality?

i say all drummers shld be unserious.
Click to expand...
 
hahaha..does that mean you will be back for more "punishment" this Sunday? If so, come earlier (before 215 pm) ..I usually have a quick rhythm section workout before the crowd comes in..just bass drums and pianoor guitar. You can pick up some useful tips then.


RudimentalDrummer said:
Yes, I do agree most of them are nice people and yes I know some by names and some by sight 90% of the people there that day...hahahaha.

Thanks
Click to expand...
 
no i agree drummers shld try their best to learn diff styles to better improve their playing.
i feel that there should be a more chilled out vibe, hence unserious. alot of the times we musicians take ourselves too seriously. it looks interesting i might drop by one sunday and have a jam
 
Blofeld said:
hahaha..does that mean you will be back for more "punishment" this Sunday? If so, come earlier (before 215 pm) ..I usually have a quick rhythm section workout before the crowd comes in..just bass drums and pianoor guitar. You can pick up some useful tips then.
Click to expand...


Thanks for the invitation Bro. But this Sunday, I can't really make it ... I'll be there when I'm free (promise) ...but you tell them to play.... simple songs like below, so I can jam along ok for now ....hahahaha - then 1 year later - hopefully I'll be as good as Keith Jarett...then I will punish the Lead-Guitarists - swing at extremely fast speed until he struggle like hell as he solo Whahahaha !(joking)...

Days Of Wine & Roses. A Train, Desafinado, Misty, Girl From Ipanema, Black Opheus, All The Things You're, Summer Samba, Triste, Wave, One Note Samba......something like these - the simple songs.

Thanks & Cheers

PS: - My Sifu is really an awesome All-Rounder Drummer and a great teacher bro.
 
Last edited:
You mean Jack De Johnnette....Keith Jarrett is a pianist !!:D



RudimentalDrummer said:
Thanks for the invitation Bro. But this Sunday, I can't really make it ... I'll be there when I'm free (promise) ...but you tell them to play.... simple songs like below, so I can jam along ok for now ....hahahaha - then 1 year later - hopefully I'll be as good as Keith Jarett...then I will punish the Lead-Guitarists - swing at extremely fast speed until he struggle like hell as he solo Whahahaha !(joking)...

Days Of Wine & Roses. A Train, Desafinado, Misty, Girl From Ipanema, Black Opheus, All The Things You're, Summer Samba, Triste, Wave, One Note Samba......something like these - the simple songs.

Thanks & Cheers

PS: - My Sifu is really an awesome All-Rounder Drummer and a great teacher bro.
Click to expand...
 
Being a serious drummer means taking your craft seriously but yeah..be cool and chill out man..and having a sense of humour gets one out of trouble more than any other skill one may acquire. Do come down and jam if you have the time...it's really happening every Sunday.


blurred said:
no i agree drummers shld try their best to learn diff styles to better improve their playing.
i feel that there should be a more chilled out vibe, hence unserious. alot of the times we musicians take ourselves too seriously. it looks interesting i might drop by one sunday and have a jam
Click to expand...
 
Your list of "simple" songs are not all that simple.

A-Train, Desifinado, Triste, One Note Samba..all have tricky forms and rhythm changes. As you witnessed last week, "All The Things You Are" is a song we use for all sorts of experimentation such as time signature changes and solo trading. With seasoned jazz players, the simpler the song the more complicated they will try to make it. It's the academic nature of jazz and the urge to experiment and try new things, even with old stuff. Think about it...play "Autumn Leaves" in 5/4 then try doing "Take Five" in 4/4...or try alternating seamlessly between 5/4 and 4/4. Enjoy.:cool:



---Quote (Originally by RudimentalDrummer)---
Thanks for the invitation Bro. But this Sunday, I can't really make it ... I'll be there when I'm free (promise) ...but you tell them to play.... simple songs like below, so I can jam along ok for now ....hahahaha - then 1 year later - hopefully I'll be as good as Keith Jarett...then I will punish the Lead-Guitarists - swing at extremely fast speed until he struggle like hell as he solo Whahahaha !(joking)...

Days Of Wine & Roses. A Train, Desafinado, Misty, Girl From Ipanema, Black Opheus, All The Things You're, Summer Samba, Triste, Wave, One Note Samba......something like these - the simple songs.

Thanks & Cheers

PS: - My Sifu is really an awesome All-Rounder Drummer and a great teacher bro.
---End Quote---
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Hi Blofled,

Could you give us some examples of what is played every sunday? So if we do go down, we can be at least slightly prepared.

Thanks.
 
On any typical Sunday, the songs played vary a bit but a lot of the popular standards mentioned earlier will pop up. Also bebop standards like Billie's Bounce, Straight No Chaser, I Remember April, Donna Lee,Epistrophy, Ornithology, and such... plus a lot of Bossas (anything Yobim is fair game). There are also some Chick Corea and fusion creeping in..Spain, 500 Miles High for exmple. Essentially almost eveything played can be found among the 500+ songs in the Real Book 1982 version(the original jazz jammer bible). As a newbie you may call a song you are familiar with and the regulars will normally back you up..but drummers usually just play what comes up. I normally try to get people out of their comfort level and introduce one or two new (or less familiar ) songs every week...or change tempos or time signatures. Thus drummers esp are made to work.


rla said:
Hi Blofled,

Could you give us some examples of what is played every sunday? So if we do go down, we can be at least slightly prepared.

Thanks.
Click to expand...
 
Last edited:
Blofeld, thanks for everything you've shared thus far.
Been really helpful, and I've always wanted to find out more.
My interest is piqued.

One day, I'll definitely try to pop by just to chill, listen, observe, and learn.
Committed to other things at the moment, school for one.
I think I'm definitely too raw and unprepared to sit on the throne myself.
Which reminds me, I really should get in touch with Tan Boon Gee about lessons.

For my own reference, these are the details yeah?

Tanglin CC (245 Whitley Road Singapore 297829)
Every Sunday 2-6pm

Thanks again. :)
 
There is no pressure...do it at your own pace. You are young and have time on your side. Music is a means to anend..not the end itself.
 
fun and work? wht i mean is i wanna chill out when i'm not working. playing donna lee and orinthology alone with be not chilled not too mention in odd time as u mentioned. it just dun seem like a gd chill. less intimidating is always better esp on forums if u dun mind this impetuous young fellow saying.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar threads

J
Looking to form a pop punk / alt rock band
Replies
1
Views
532
JayeJ
J
W
Metal/Rock Progressive Band Looking for Bassist and Vocalist
Replies
0
Views
306
whatever
W
W
Band Looking for Bassist and Vocalist
Replies
0
Views
339
whatever
W
W
Band Looking For Versatile Drummer
Replies
0
Views
782
whatever
W
P
43yr old guitarist looking for band members (classic rock)
Replies
17
Views
4K
narumol
N

Latest posts

Share this page

Back
Top