heres my formula to jazz guitar in high school for the wes montgomery
impaired. (it worked for me)
#1...When in doubt turn your guitar down and look like your playing (stare
intently at the music) most band directors dont care if someone sucks as long
as there not noticeable.
#2...If theres a piano player your stoked (especially on big band
stuff)..Hide behind him, he probably knows what hes doing. Also make friends
with him (that way he can tell you where you are in the chart)
#3...find old records with freddy green, copy his style (or at least his
rthythm patterns) Basically be as straight forward as possible, you wont
sound wonderful but you wont trip over anyone either.
#4...Screw Extensions...flat 5 raised 2 sus4 augmented chords are extremely
improtant to the song, but if you suck, you suck. Play the basic chord, be
wary of the third though (people will notice and C major played on a C minor
chord) If your completely ready to cry a power chord is at least the root and
fifth.
#5....most importantly PRACTICE your ass off, this shit aint easy, you can
only fake it for so long...and if you have to volunteer to solo, do it over a
blues progression...dont do it over Giant Steps.
