Re: Subject: Re: [Harp-L] more on neophyte Jazz Jams at SPAH 2009

[Joe and Cass Leone <leone@xxxxxxxx>]

> --- On Wed, 6/3/09, EGS1217@xxxxxxx <EGS1217@xxxxxxx> wrote:
>
> I suppose I'm talking about a combination of first a jam - and then a
> Q&A or seminar afterwards, but very loose and relaxed and not set  
> up as a
> 'classroom' but more working with us within the jam perhaps even  
> right at
> the mics?  Real, practical, hands-on instruction?

I had to stop & make dinner but all the while giving this some 'Jack  
Handy' approach. What you suggest presents a couple problems.
1.... Spah would have to find a space to do this.
2.... It would have to be away from the hustle & bustle.
3.... Back-up would add additional cost/planning/consideration(s)
4.... You would need someone otherwise uninvolved in the other  
activities at spah as this would be time-centric.
5.... Why? Because this could get pretty involved

I think what would have to happen is a rendition of a Al/Judy Smith  
or a Joe Filisko TEACH IN.  I see a couple problems.
1.... People who are going to attempt to play ANY music need a basis  
with which to start.
2.... The people already doing jazz have years and years to draw from.
3.... Someone would have to 'set-UP' a couple easy pieces, and have  
the class work on these. Everyone would learn the head of the tune.
4.... THEN the moderator (or his/her helper(s) would have to show the  
class what could be done with turning the chords.
5.... Then it's a mater of helping the players understand where to go  
with the tune.

Conclusion: It's keeps coming back to the players needing to have  
some starting point AND some background to build on.
Me? I think it's a tough job. Right now the players that DO play  
already have other experience as a basis. So THAT part is already  
covered.

Me? I would LOVE to see it happen.       jo-jo