Developing a Rhythmic Vocabulary for Improvisation

Kevin Woods

National Association for Music EducationNorthwest Conference

February 13, 2015

Table of Contents

“Sandu” Clifford Brown Solo Transcription....................................................... pg 1

“Springdale” Claudio Roditi Solo Transcription................................................. pg 2-3

2 vs. 3 & 3 vs. 2 Scale Rhythm Exercises........................................................... pg 4

12 Bar Blues Phrasing Grids................................................................................ pg 5-6

32 Bar Phrasing Grids.......................................................................................... pg 7-8

94 Common Jazz Rhythms................................................................................... pg 9-12

Rhythm Exercises and Notes................................................................................ pg 13-14

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Rhythm Exercises

2 vs. 3 & 3 vs. 2 PolyrhythmNotes:

Rhythm Contests*Notes:

Using The 96 Common Jazz Rhythms WorksheetsNotes:

The Human Drum Set*Notes:

Subdivision Exercises in Groups and PairsNotes:

“Johnny/Jane One-Note” SolosNotes:

Rhythmic Vocal Solos with Unison ClappingNotes:

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Rhythmic Solos with Whole Body (Clappin' and Stompin')Notes:

Playing Common 3/4 Songs in 4/4, Then “Ragging” ThemNotes:

“Ragging” Familiar SongsNotes:

About Kevin Woods

Trumpeter & composer Kevin Woods is quickly emerging as one of the most melodic and emotive voices in improvised music in the Northwest. His passion for both performance and education have made him in demand as a leader and a sideman as well as a composer, arranger and clinician. Woods has been featured in both Downbeat and Jazziz magazines and his debut album Ballad of the West received high praise and airplay on jazz radio stations throughout North America and Europe.

As an educator, Kevin has taught at the University of Colorado, Boulder, Whatcom Community College, Western Washington University, and Seakyung College in South Korea. Currently, he lives in Spokane, Washington where he is active as a performer, educator, composer/arranger and serves as trumpet instructor and Director of Jazz Studies at Spokane Falls Community College. Woods is a clinician/artist for the Conn-Selmer Company.

For audio, video, and more visit:www.kevinwoodsmusic.com

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