Re: [Harp-L] keepin' it simple

["Monsterharp" <Monsterharp@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

When I teach people to improvise I start them on one note. I use Jamie 
Aebersold volume 42 Blues in all keys and 24 Majors and Minors.
I suggest they simply play a rythim with the one note as well as ading some 
long notes. Simply playing what feels good.Then I suggest they add another 
note. And so on. But it all starts with that one note. The joy on someones 
face realizing they are playing music along with somthing is verry cool.
I'd like to take credit for this way of teaching but I can't, I had a sax 
teacher explain  this to me who had loads of students improvising from there 
begining as well as reading.
To get back to the point at hand.
When I was a younger man I thought I had to play all the licks in my arsenal 
in the first song. Someone tought me as you said keep it simple.
If I'm still playing at 90,  I'll still welcome that feeling that you speak 
of.................................................. Dane Paul