10 Simple Ideas For Improvisation - Jazzy Guitar Solo

Hello world,  this time I recorded a short video soloing over funk-fusion backing track from Quistjam. (Thanks Man!) To make it  as comfortable to use as possible I compiled a short "CHECKLIST" in 10 points to guide you through the solo. You can just print it and have it near you when soloing until it would become a part of your player's instinct :)
The guitar used in the recording is IBANEZ GB30 - check details here.

So let's get directly to quick 10 points checklist for soloing...

#1 - start with short rhythmic motive(s) and repeat it few times - explore the motive adjusting it to changing harmony

#2 - switch after awhile to longer phrases, they can still be constructed from the motives used earlier

#3 -  change the game by using arpeggios but still think of making them rhythmically interesting,  "motivic"

#4 -  explore upbeats, in other words make your lines more syncopated

 (we are already somewhere  in the middle of the solo)

#5 - change articulation - if you played legato, play some staccato, some bends or otherwise change your articulation approach

#6 - this is valid always when playing with others - listen to the band and reflect in your solo what you here from them

#7 - play over and across the bar lines - they are only useful to make reading easier - in real music they DON"T EXIST

#8 - play a strong melodic "cliche" or even cite a popular piece of melody - this can wake up the audience if they've already fell asleep ;)

#9 - use polyrhythms to spice up towards the end of the solo - this also helps to keep listeners intrigued (at least awake;)

#10 - have fun because playing improvised music is really BIG FUN - and remember the notes and rests have equal importance - don't overplay because that makes you tired and the audience probably too.

Now check my solo with every idea highlighted. Hope you will enjoy:)

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