Too many notes?!

[SOLR]

Trying to help out a fellow member, I once again turned to Dirk's excellent instructional videos.

And, once again I am reminded, that much of Dirk's instructional classics are true gems.

I copied the following text from a reply on one of those truly enjoyable lessons linked below.

Autumn Leaves Melody & Solo Study


This is a perfect example of tasteful playing. The melodic development is natural, logical and pleasing to the ear. The occasional flair is just right. A common temptation among jazz guitarists is to show off with explosive runs that contain many notes crammed into a short space. This may be impressive in the moment but it detracts from the flow and beauty of the music. Dirk resists the temptation to be showy in that way. Instead, he lets the chords and initial melody guide his improvisations. I would almost use the word “restraint” to describe Dirk’s playing but better would be to say, “wisely allowing each idea to breathe”. A common flaw musicians fall into when improvising is forgetting to use space and silence. Dirk use of space makes his phrases stand out with greater clarity. This is a technique we all can benefit from incorporating this in our playing. I also love that his musical ideas have direction. Each musical statement leads to the one that follows. In this way, Dirk’s solo tells a story that is thoughtfully built and supported with each line, phrase and journey through the chord progression.
This is an A+ music lesson and an undeniable example of artistic playing.

This comment, IMO, is valid for much of Dirk's videos.Thx Dirk,

S

[deacon Mark]

That was really nice of Dirk and tasty playing. Sometimes after being around a bunch of guitar players with diarrhea, I go back and listen to Paul Desmond and remind myself why music and melody are so important.

[digger]

I love Dirk's lessons. I'm sure I've said before I think his lessons don't get enough plaudits and recognition here. This whole site is great, not just the forum.

Derek

[Mick-7]

Plus Dirk is playing it on a very rare Gibson custom shop curved neck guitar. I think they only made a handful of them.