Hi guys,

I'm not too sure if most of you are more into classical or jazz, but I had a question about improvising solos in jazz pieces. Our teacher encourages us to write our own solos for pieces; he much prefers this than just playing the optional solos written in the piece for us. Usually he will give us scales that work with the chords during these sections; but I don't want to be forevber so dependent on him.

Basically my question is, if I know the chords being played through the section, how can I choose the right notes/scales that will work with these cords? For example, on all my pieces I will see things like "C7", "F5" etc above the bars of the solo section; how do I know which scales correspond to these chords? Otherwise its just going to be trial and error trying to play notes in my solo which don't clash with the notes in the background chords.

Thanks!

use the scales that your teacher gives you or ask your teacher about it

You use the scales that go along with the chords... For example, C7 is a C mixolydian scale (5th scale degree, this means it is just an F major scale starting on C), or you can just outline a C7 chord (C E G Bb). Also, a sharp 9 is a great blues note.

P.S. Buy Jamey Aebersold books

There are no shortcuts. Young curtis is right in his example - you have to learn what the jazz scales are and you have to practice them.

Getting a scale method book will help. Google "jazz scales" - you'll find a lot of info, including method book recommendations.

It takes practice - training your ear, training your chops, but mostly training your heart. You have to relax, be willing to take risks, be willing to play awrong note or twelve to find your way through it.

Just sit down with your axe and play what comes from your heart. Tape the stuff you're playing in your jazz group or listen to a pro recording. Then close your eyes and play along, letting it flow from you. You will be surprised at how soon your ear trains the eye of your mind to "see" the notes to play.

Again - there are NO shortcuts!