Phrasing Exercise from Victor Wooten's Groove Workshop

[DarkSword]

I've been working through Victor Wooten's "Groove Workshop" and the Phrasing Exercise was really eye-opening to me. Here's the gist of the instructions.

"I'm going to have you turn your bass down and softly sing a great jazz solo. Think of the way you would love to play, and then sing it. With your bass still off, start playing along with your singing. Play what you're singing. Don't worry about what you're playing, just play what you're singing with your bass off. I don't want you to worry about whether the notes are right. Just get the phrases, don't worry about the pitches. Now slowly turn up the volume, and keep playing what you're singing. Don't sing what you play. Play what you sing."

This made quite an impact on me. I realized I'm so worried about hitting all the "right" notes that I'm ignoring the phrasing, the language.

This might be a common technique among more seasoned players, but I wanted to share in case others are struggling in this area.

If anyone else has little tricks or exercises you've found helpful along the way, please share!

 

[dreamadream99]

I’ve not heard of it before, but I think it’s a great idea.

 

[ErikP.Bass]

I recently watched these DVDs and thought they were great. Lots of unique ways to approach some of the lesser discussed aspects of musicianship from two virtuosos. It’s wild how some of the playing changes through their instruction & cues.

I’ve been working my way through a book called The Talent Code and will be moving on to Victors book, The Music Lesson, when I’m done.

 

[Spin Doctor]

I recently watched these DVDs and thought they were great. Lots of unique ways to approach some of the lesser discussed aspects of musicianship from two virtuosos. It’s wild how some of the playing changes through their instruction & cues.

I’ve been working my way through a book called The Talent Code and will be moving on to Victors book, The Music Lesson, when I’m done.

I have had that Groove Workshop DVD for a long time, but never opened it. I guess I should at least have a look, lol. I've read The Music Lesson and Talent is Overrated.