Here is a loose improvisation practice over a slow blues in A. I have incorporated a lot of what I have learned from MGA into the solo "on the fly"Watching it back gave me valuable insight into how I articulate, when I hesitate and how I recover from a "clanger". and Where I need to improve. One thing Ive noticed immediately is that I am playing too fast, too busy for the stlye of backing track. it needs more space. some of the phrases are in the wrong palce and some of the phrases are just wrong! Version 2 in a couple of days
It would be great if all members (particularly the older members! Come on Guys!) could post and make this community hum!
Thanks for Opening this Discussion, Craig. While we should always be supportive of contributions and efforts, I applaud you for setting a Discussion Thread as foundation for critical review of recording efforts. CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM that helps each of us examine our process and improve our playing makes for better musicianship.
I think Too Fast, and Too Busy are the devils that sit upon my shoulders every time I pick up the guitar to perform. Don't we all feel rushed and on the spot to produce notes?
On the other hand, Patience is the angel that sits on my head stock and says, take your time to improve rather than prove yourself. Patience says every mistake is a potential step to improvement. Better yet, Patience says, try to borrow and learn from the mistake.
Phrasing also seems like an aspect best counseled by Patience and her cousin, Maturity. Maturity wants me to see the big picture as I am moving my way through the progression, to be comfortable with my skill level so that I can contribute and share, and serve the song.
Recording Definitely Helps Me with these issues. Players, what say Ye?
Great topic!
My go-to advice is, "think like a vocalist". It's all about proper phrasing.
- Listen before you play! Spend time listening to the track, including chord voicings, rhythm, energy, etc
- Leave space - tell a story
- Think like a vocalist
- Listen to great artists (not just guitar players, but singers, horn players, pianists, etc)