Clark JM Jazz Mandolin
Search
Tips & Tricks Mel Bay Mandolin Sessions
Spotlight

JM_Ad_GiJM.jpg

JM_Ad_JLSmith.jpg

JM_Ad_Clark2.jpg

Manndolins.jpg

JM_Ad_Sorensen.jpg

JM_Ad_Giroaurd.jpg

JM_Ad_MandolinCafe.jpg

Sage Wisdom

"Good improvisation communicates harmonic progression melodically. Effective melodies manipulate harmonic content through the use of guide tones and preparatory gravity notes, masterfully woven in systematic tension, release, and transparent harmonic definition."



« Regis Bonilha | Main | Christopher Guest "taps" into acoustic »

January 20, 2009 | Sage wisdom from Michael Lampert

The NAMM show is always an intense time for JazzMando Site Administrator, Ted Eschliman and crew. In addition to catching all the latest and greatest in mandolin developments, he's capturing thoughts on pen and paper for his trade column at Music Inc Magazine, getting direction for new projects at publisher Mel Bay, all in addition to major inventory and market decisions for his multi-store chain in the Midwest.

Fortunately, there were a few moments for an outdoor sanity and soda break with LA area musician and mentor, Michael Lampert. Soaking in the retreating southern California sun (it was 6 degrees back home), the conversation meandered from personal reconnaissance and observations of breakthrough gear on the trade show floor (MP3 mandolins and new industry import players), potential Mandolin Acquisition Syndrome transaction restraint ("keep the Kimble, Ted. Put the additional impulse money into an Education Roth for your daughter's college in 8 years"), and of course our personal favorite topic, mandolin tone.

Reflecting on a previous archive column, "As music "technicians," we often get wrapped up in the mechanics of playing. Faster, louder, more complex, we strive to get more out of the "motor skills" dimension in practice and performing--so much so that we forget music is about beauty. Things like line, expression, tone, get lost like the proverbial forest through the trees developing facility.

Fellow jazzer and electric mandolin pioneer Michael Lampert put it best in a casual conversation, "...I mean if it isn't pretty, why bother?" The context was the subject of players who can reel off a tremendous amount of notes, but either lack melodic direction, or just plain have lousy tone.

Michael Lampert.jpg

We love revisiting these thoughts every time we correspond with the jazz tonemeister himself. Especially when we can do it in person in the January California sun.

Artist Website: Michael Lampert

Posted by Ted at January 20, 2009 6:01 AM


Bookmark and Share


QuickNav:   Home | Book | Webtracks | Tips | Store | Contact
Feeds: Tips & Tricks | What's New
© 2005-2018 JazzMando.com. All rights reserved.


Disclaimer: In the 'Information Age' of the 21st Century, any fool with a computer, a modem, and an idea can become a self-professed 'expert." This site does not come equipped with 'discernment.'



Site designed and hosted by No Hassle Design, Development, & Hosting

Tips & Tricks - Listen & LearnMel Bay Mandolin Sessions Articles- check it out!