Phrasing

Ian Rossiter · January 2009

The single biggest musical obstical for me isn't picking,or playing in time,or speed, or tone....it's always,always ALWAYS Phrasing.
I've struggled with it every time I've picked up a guitar from day one. I've tried singing along, listening to the tune insessantly,slowing down, but every now and again I'll come accross a single note line that I just can't phrase properly.
All the scales,modes,harmony,arpeggios,spagettio's,and picks in the world add up to nothing when I can't phrase a line right. ( Not ALL of them mind you, just the odd line that I just can't "pronounce" y'know?)
Jazz phrasing has always baffled me, I've been playing for years in other styles, and none of them have ever tripped me up like this.
So, anyone have any advice??

BluesBop Harry · January 2009

Play along with the records and try to copy their articulation, until you sound just like them.
Listen to Louis Armstrong, Charlie Parker, Sonny Rollins, Coltrane.
Horn players usually have the best phrasing.
If the problem lies in an original line (not a lick or phrase from someone else), try to imagine how you want it to sound and work at it. Record yourself, be honest and try to spot where the trouble is, then take the necessary steps to correct it.
Change fingerings, use legato or not.