The result is a logical and musical line that the listener can easily follow, a musical story that unfolds piece by piece.Īs you look to your own playing, aim to start your solos in this fashion – with a melodic statement instead of your go-to licks. He continues the line through three different keys, using the rhythm and shape of the theme as the glue that holds everything together. Now listen to how he develops this theme throughout the first eight bars of the progression: Herbie begins his solo with a simple six note theme:Ī musical statement that’s defined by a chromatic approach note, a clear melodic shape, and a definitive rhythm. Take one more listen to his solo on Ceora, and this time keep your ears open for how he utilizes:īelow we’ll take a closer look at how Herbie Hancock creates 5 distinct musical themes over this common chord progression… Theme #1: Making a melodic statement And that’s exactly why we’ve chosen Herbie Hancock for a lesson in how to develop a melodic solo in a creative way. You must start by looking to your favorite players for inspiration. How exactly do you create an original solo over this tune…one that’s unique from every other solo you play? Most players immediately go to their licks – the ii-V lines that they’ve learned and practice – and cut and paste them right into their solo. So what do you play over a tune like this? Hundreds of jazz standards share this same chord progression – major chords, minor chords, ii-V’s and turnarounds. …and more ii-V’s and turnarounds as the form continues: You’ll find ii-V’s to the I chord and the IV chord: The chord progression to the tune is relatively simple – 32 bars in the key of Ab… Take a listen below ( the solo starts at 4:05): Herbie Hancock’s solo on Ceora :Ī masterful example of this concept is Herbie Hancock’s solo on Ceora from the Lee Morgan album Cornbread. The secret of a great solo lies creating music in the moment. Remember, not every solo has to be full of double time lines, memorized licks, and theory devices. To make a statement, to interact with other musicians, and to see where the music will go in that split-second… And this is a skill that you should start thinking about in your own playing.įor the best players, every solo is an opportunity to create a new musical idea.

Transcending the details of notes and scales to create a musical message on the spot.

The ability to create magic with the simplest of tools – rhythm, harmony and melodic statements. This is the mark of a master musician in any style of music. To transport them out of their daily routine and expectations and into the music itself. But the thing that stands out most is his ability to craft a musical moment for the listener. From his work with the great Miles Davis Quintet to his own musical explorations, he has spent decades evolving and pushing musical boundaries. Herbie Hancock is one of the greatest living improvisers.

Saxophone jazz solo transcriptions