Bebop Scales and Jazz Improvisation: Approach and Application

Biography

This presentation is a focused masterclass that follows a series of related topics regarding jazz improvisation. The goal is to make the process of learning bebop scales sequential and ordered. Each new topic builds on the last and is realized as a complete method. When used in conjunction with other established techniques and ideas, bebop scales provide excellent foundational material for any jazz improviser. The individual sounds and scale fragments will be demonstrated on solo saxophone and also with play-along recordings. Written musical ideas will be presented in a power point format on a screen that follows a printed handout. The audio and visual resources are necessary for the audience to see and hear the examples and the handout is designed as a long term resource tool.

More information

The goal of this presentation and masterclass is to establish the history, significance,
and use of the bebop scale in jazz improvisation. The overall concept and musical
content is appropriate for any saxophonist, educator, or improviser looking to broaden
their understanding of foundational jazz language. Tailored to saxophonists, this
masterclass covers the following topics: construction of bebop scales, when to include
or exclude additional half steps, an approach to starting on any note of the scale, the
distinction between ascending and descending scales, extending bebop scales further
than an octave, harmonic simplification, excerpts from classic jazz saxophone solos that
demonstrate variations of the source material, and an accompanying resource (handout)
of examples that clearly and completely identifies bebop scale possibilities over a wide
variety of harmony. Each of the stated topics relate to the vital technique of placing
chord tones on downbeats during an improvised solo. Saxophonists will benefit from
this approach as the primary objective of any improviser is to create linear lines that
incorporate direction and clear harmonic intent. Bebop scales provide the necessary
foundational material that is historically used to accomplish that goal. This presentation
combines personal experience with reference material, creating a new method of
approaching and applying bebop scales.