I understand that often times jazz is improvised, but how, exactly? For instance, who leads? Is it always the same person/instrument leading?
In: 48
First of all, most of the time on jazz they are playing a standard song that musicians already know. They usually know the song’s chord structure so they know how the musical language to solo. If they don’t know it they’ll play by ear and/or use more generalized language to fill the solo until they learn it.
Jazz songs start with a “head,” or the main melody and then usually do solos after and trade around, then go to the melody again and end.
Regarding coordination, experienced players have an intuitive psychic connection and can figure it out on their own silently. Someone will step up take a certain amount of measures, and then someone else will step in when it feels like they’re done. Even if there is a slight miscommunication they can figure it out quickly and adjust. The rhythm section (bass, drums) can also make adjustments based on the notes soloists are playing and when they are transitioning the song.
Latest Answers