Re: [Harp-L] Re: Jazz on Diatonic

[IcemanLE@xxxxxxx]

In a message dated 11/23/2005 12:13:50 AM Eastern Standard Time, 
dmf273@xxxxxxxxx writes:
In fact my whole purpose is to AVOID
"harmonica-convenient" licks like the plague.
oh my brother, that is my path as well.

To take diatonic to the next level, it should not be played "harmonically", 
but like any other instrument in which you pick the notes first and then play 
them.

You may also learn how to choose a position or morph and time the ideas so 
that notes produced through OB/OD are minimized in their "weight" within the 
melodic line. Take, for instance, how Miles Davis will change a note or two in 
the head of a tune to create a stunning aural effect while keeping the head 
recognizeable. The same can be done in the heat of improv.

IMO, you don't have to play "note for note" the head as written. Cassandra 
Wilson will sing a standard and make it her own. The same goes for Nnenna 
Freelon and other forward thinking artists.

The Iceman

The Iceman