Why the “C” Word Makes Everything You Play Sound Better

There are a few words of wisdom in my deep fryer of musical truth nuggets that can unlock enormous amounts of musicality in your playing.

One of those words is the C word: Contrast.

My favorite way to apply contrast is in the context of phrasing.

Let’s step away from music for a moment and consider a different medium…

How do master storytellers tell their tales?

By speaking loudly…and softly.

By slowing down…and speeding up.

By articulating with precision…and slurring with a drawl.

All of the above and more can be applied to music. But unfortunately, many a soloist ends up sounding like a boring public speaker droning on and on in a dull, monotone voice.

The cure is to inject massive amounts of contrast into your playing. And the real secret is to exaggerate that contrast as much as possible.

Seriously. When you think you’re doing enough…do more.

Make your louds louder and your softs softer.

Play your staccatos shorter and your tenutos longer.

Slur with more syrup and attack with even more zest.

I know it’s a bit abstract to read about all this in an email. So, if you really want to dig into adding contrast into your playing and learn a ton more about how to take your solos to next level and beyond, be sure to check out my course, Phrasing Secrets.

When it comes to jazz education, there are countless resources out there that show you what to play. Phrasing Secrets shows you how. And the truth is, how you play is so much more important than what you play.

That’s why the Phrasing Secrets is one of the most important courses you can take to better your solos.

Click here to learn more about Phrasing Secrets and start leveling up your solos without having to learn more scales and licks.

Happy shedding!

Jeff