Listen To Eachother!

Just a quick thought today about one of my favorite Kieth Jarrett trio moments captured on film.  If you go to around :35 into this clip you can clearly see Keith reacting to Jack DeJohnette's super slick transition into the solo section.  From my perspective it looks like Keith is almost surprised by what he hears, and decides to just listen instead of play for almost a whole chorus!  Ask yourself how you would react in a situation where you hear something surprising.  Would you have even been aware enough to hear what was happening?  Would you have tried to just play through it?  For me this is a truly inspiring example of group interplay and listening, hope you enjoy it. 

Also, for more great drum/piano interplay check out the trading 8's starting around 6:45. 

Flexibility: Bend Don't Break

Strength from flexibility

There is a Japanese proverb that goes something like, "The bamboo that bends is stronger than the oak that resists".  In music there is a real strength that comes from adapting to what is going on around you as opposed to trying to insist on your way, regardless of whether you are right or wrong. 

A big part of the joy of playing jazz is dealing with the unknown.  No matter how much you practice, listen, and play with people, there will always be situations where you will be genuinely surprised.   In these types of situations there are a few helpful things that you can do related to this idea of musical flexibility.