The First Answer is Always to Listen More

Beth Enloe Fritz

Jazz R&R


The First Answer is Always to Listen More

They say one of the best characteristics of a friend is to be a good listener. When listening, we not only gain information, but also in the best-case scenarios, can open up to emotions and be inspired. 

In my experience talking with educators and students that don’t, or are apprehensive to, perform jazz, always the number one answer is to listen more. The same answer applies when working with groups that sing a jazz chart, but are not truly singing jazz. Correct parts and locked chords are present, but the style is not (referring to a few specifics like vowel placement, tone, and articulations that better represent swing, bossa, or ballads, etc.).

Listening is a long-used jazz technique. Jazzers listen to musicians, often beyond their own abilities. They pick up some stylistic techniques (even characteristic riffs or licks) and blend it into their own repertoire of tools to use during performance. Therefore, a musician’s solo style is developed from a combination of influences. Some can become inspired and influenced so much that audience members in the know can tell who was/is on the performer’s listening rotation. 

As a listener of jazz, look for a variety of instruments and styles to get fresh perspectives on your own favorites. When you listen out of the box, you may find yourself growing out of the box. Also, listen to styles you like and groups or people that you admire to assess what you enjoy. Mostly, just listening to different groups and soloists will instill a sense of feel and time, along with the love of rhythmic unpredictability and dissonance that will go a long way. 

Everyone listens in their own way. On an analytical level, take note of tone that can adjust per style, and the groove (time). Ornamentations, articulations, and riffs or licks within the melody (head) are usually a signature of the performer and can be noticed during their improvisations. Imitate these fun elements as you sing along. 

If you are listening because of a certain chart or arrangement you have programmed, here’s a thought of caution about only listening to the publishing houses’ audio examples. Many times the performance will be recorded by studio musicians that are not singing in the appropriate jazz style. Emulating these particular examples can lead you down the wrong path. Instead, mix your demo listening by finding original recordings of the arrangement and, most importantly, try contacting the arranger for a performance demo. You will almost always find good help this way and you’ll get a stylistically authentic example.  

There is also a notable point of watching groups live or online. Watch for performance expression and analyze the general elevated “cool quotient.” YouTube rabbit holes, as you well know, can be vast and time sucking. Your discernment is encouraged.

ncluded here is a list of vocal jazz groups, vocal soloists, and instrumentalists as well as a few YouTube suggestions. No one performer or group was intentionally left off this list. It’s merely a jumping off point. Don’t get overwhelmed. Even a little can be very informative and possibly open the door to a steady diet. Sooner than later, you’ll have your own playlists.

Enjoy your dive in.

SUGGESTED LISTENING LIST

Compiled by Beth Enloe Fritz

Jazz Fan (1982-present)


VOCAL JAZZ GROUPS


VOCAL SOLOISTS


INSTRUMENTAL JAZZ


YouTube SEARCHES:

Anyone listed above, but further…