I am referring to bandskool's fledgling band musicanship course which is aimed at musicians who already 'play a bit' but would like to develop further...in a few different areas of musicianship; namely, the ability to improvise with reference to different stylistic influences; and the disciplines of ensemble playing where written instructions must be observed and sections must perform together exquisitely. Although there is still scope for improvisation in an ensemble setting, it is less than with a smaller band (combo). In the case of the latter, there is a lot more room to stretch out, leading to unpredictable musical results. And that can be...interesting - no two performances are exactly the same. It seems fair to say that the more musicians involved with a line up the less scope there is for improvisation; although improvised solos and the freedom of the rhythm section remain important aspects. Principally, we are talking about the rigours of horn playing - the different horn sections must tune into the example set by their horn leaders; and ultimately the horns must be together in every possible way: articulations, balance...
Who might the course appeal to? Well, as said, musicians who already play an instrument to a certain extent - certainly not complete beginners...let alone beginners at all. There is no age discrimination: secondary school age up to retirement age: no problem. This is not a classical course - it refers to different elements of 20th century popular music: Jazz, Latin, Rock, Blues, Funk and whatever else. Do labels matter? It is about playing something appropriate in a given situation and it is about musical ideas - there is no need to compartmentalise things necessarily. But in a sense, it is taking a 'Jazzer's mindset' to whatever is done: in the sense that the music could go anywhere...and the outcome....not predictable. It is about the musicians listening to each other and responding appropriately. It is a bit like having a conversation. Well that's as far as the improvisation bit goes. As said, ensemble playing is a different matter.
Anyone interested in finding out more can contact bandskool at info@bandskool.com. Happy to receive your enquiries. I can guarantee that you will develop musically if you come on this course. And that is what it is all about...
