3:3 Writing for Rhythm Section Flashcards
When an arrangement doesn’t specifically notate the part, a drummer will “comp”. What is comping?
“Comp” is a term used in JAZZ to describe the accompaniment that the rhythm section CREATES to complement an ensemble.
Use _____ _____ to show that the rhythm section should comp.
slash notation
For specific emphasis, what can an arranger do with slash notation?
add text or musical notation
What is the piano’s role in a rhythm section?
provide melodies and harmonies, coupled with bass and rhythmic pulse
What notation is used to tell a pianist to “comp”?
slashes and chord changes
Why would an arranger use comping with accents?
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
Why would an arranger ask for comping with accents and lead notes?
- To limit the range of voicing;
- To highlight or duplicate a melodic or rhythmic idea;
- To provide shape to a melodic line;
- To emphasize voice leading in the chord progression
An arranger will fully notate a part when?
he wants something very specific, leaving nothing up to interpretation.
It is acceptable to use the fully notated method in conjunction with which other notation?
slash notation
What are 5 other reasons to use fully notated arranging?
- double melodic lines
- create color, texture, dynamic support
- perform specific lines w/ ensemble
- provide clarity to phrase
- emphasize and create depth in articulated lines
In the case of a fully notated piano part, what kind of staff is needed?
grand staff notation is used to indicate rhythmic figures and chordal structure.
Guitar is most like which instrument in rhythm section function?
Piano. it adds clarity, emphasis as a doubling instrument and its percussiveness can add intensity to lines.
How is the guitar notated?
on the 5 line staff in treble cleff.
What is the role of the bass in jazz ensembles?
communicating tempo and groove to the ensemble
The bass will comp like guitar and piano, and will need what notation?
at a minimum, slash notation with chord symbols
How can an arranger ensure that the performance of style is correct?
by using fully notated bass parts to show that rhythms that need to be performed
What are some basic guidelines for writing a bass line in swing style?
- quarter notes on the beat
- apreggiated lines
- extensions w/ arpeggiated line sound more modern
- too low - unclear; too high - too thin
- link the roots of each chord change by passing tones
What are the primary functions of the drum set?
establish and maintain time
communicate dynamics
what is a kick drum used for?
style pattern, accents
what is a hi hat pedal used for?
style pattern w/ drum sticks and/or pedal
what is a stick. brush, mallet used for?
time patterns; accents; rolls
Where is drum set notation written?
on the 5-line staff with a neutral clef and time signature; no key signature
How will the drum set notation for the look?
beams up for the hands
beams down for the feet
what does slash notation tell a drummer?
time should be played per the designated style
What do ensemble figures tell the drummer?
to stop playing time and perform the accent written
Where are ensemble figures written?
on the 3rd line of the staff with rhythmic notation (slashed note heads)
what is a “Kick over Time”?
kicks written above the staff show that the hit be played in conjunction with the time pattern
where are kicks for the drummer written?
on the space above the staff.
what is a drum fill?
a short solo within the measure. length indicated with a bracket
How can the arranger show the drummer the groove?
write out the groove for 1-2 measures followed by “simili” with slash notation
