3:3 Writing for Rhythm Section

Question 1

When an arrangement doesn’t specifically notate the part, a drummer will “comp”. What is comping?

Answer 1

“Comp” is a term used in JAZZ to describe the accompaniment that the rhythm section CREATES to complement an ensemble.

Question 2

Use _____ _____ to show that the rhythm section should comp.

Answer 2

slash notation

Question 3

For specific emphasis, what can an arranger do with slash notation?

Answer 3

add text or musical notation

Question 4

What is the piano’s role in a rhythm section?

Answer 4

provide melodies and harmonies, coupled with bass and rhythmic pulse

Question 5

What notation is used to tell a pianist to “comp”?

Answer 5

slashes and chord changes

Question 6

Why would an arranger use comping with accents?

Answer 6

to tell the pianist to perform certain hits in conjunction with the comp. This will let the pianist be creative but also play important hits with the group

Question 7

Why would an arranger ask for comping with accents and lead notes?

Answer 7

1. To limit the range of voicing;
2. To highlight or duplicate a melodic or rhythmic idea;
3. To provide shape to a melodic line;
4. To emphasize voice leading in the chord progression

Question 8

An arranger will fully notate a part when?

Answer 8

he wants something very specific, leaving nothing up to interpretation.

Question 9

It is acceptable to use the fully notated method in conjunction with which other notation?

Answer 9

slash notation

Question 10

What are 5 other reasons to use fully notated arranging?

Answer 10

1. double melodic lines
2. create color, texture, dynamic support
3. perform specific lines w/ ensemble
4. provide clarity to phrase
5. emphasize and create depth in articulated lines

Question 11

In the case of a fully notated piano part, what kind of staff is needed?

Answer 11

grand staff notation is used to indicate rhythmic figures and chordal structure.

Question 12

Guitar is most like which instrument in rhythm section function?

Answer 12

Piano. it adds clarity, emphasis as a doubling instrument and its percussiveness can add intensity to lines.

Question 13

How is the guitar notated?

Answer 13

on the 5 line staff in treble cleff.

Question 14

What is the role of the bass in jazz ensembles?

Answer 14

communicating tempo and groove to the ensemble

Question 15

The bass will comp like guitar and piano, and will need what notation?

Answer 15

at a minimum, slash notation with chord symbols

Question 16

How can an arranger ensure that the performance of style is correct?

Answer 16

by using fully notated bass parts to show that rhythms that need to be performed

Question 17

What are some basic guidelines for writing a bass line in swing style?

Answer 17

1. quarter notes on the beat
2. apreggiated lines
3. extensions w/ arpeggiated line sound more modern
4. too low - unclear; too high - too thin
5. link the roots of each chord change by passing tones

Question 18

What are the primary functions of the drum set?

Answer 18

establish and maintain time

communicate dynamics

Question 19

what is a kick drum used for?

Answer 19

style pattern, accents

Question 20

what is a hi hat pedal used for?

Answer 20

style pattern w/ drum sticks and/or pedal

Question 21

what is a stick. brush, mallet used for?

Answer 21

time patterns; accents; rolls

Question 22

Where is drum set notation written?

Answer 22

on the 5-line staff with a neutral clef and time signature; no key signature

Question 23

How will the drum set notation for the look?

Answer 23

beams up for the hands

beams down for the feet

Question 24

what does slash notation tell a drummer?

Answer 24

time should be played per the designated style

Question 25

What do ensemble figures tell the drummer?

Answer 25

to stop playing time and perform the accent written

Question 26

Where are ensemble figures written?

Answer 26

on the 3rd line of the staff with rhythmic notation (slashed note heads)

Question 27

what is a “Kick over Time”?

Answer 27

kicks written above the staff show that the hit be played in conjunction with the time pattern

Question 28

where are kicks for the drummer written?

Answer 28

on the space above the staff.

Question 29

what is a drum fill?

Answer 29

a short solo within the measure. length indicated with a bracket

Question 30

How can the arranger show the drummer the groove?

Answer 30

write out the groove for 1-2 measures followed by “simili” with slash notation