For those who have been reading my posts, you know that I have reentered the world of music to my great joy. But one of the biggest holes in my knowledge is music theory, and the ability to understand the basis or “rules” for improvisation.
Working with my trumpet teacher, an accomplished jazz musician, I asked about this area of playing which eludes me. He explained that improvisation is a conversation between musicians. They take the root idea of the melody of a song and create their unique take based on a specific chord progression.
The ‘conversation’ is tossed back and forth among the players, each one offering their interpretation. I truly yearn for this understanding so that I may join the conversation too. I have a lot of work to do to get there.
In Chapter X, finding meaningful connection and conversation is a key component to life satisfaction. While we’ve spent our careers trying to get ahead and focus on wealth building, many of us have not focused on those deeply meaningful relationships. Now that there’s time, it is only to our advantage to work that muscle to establish or reestablish our connection with others.
Focus on creating those opportunities that will bring you to those wonderful, meaningful and satisfying conversations. It’s worth the work!
