William L. Gillock ： New Orleans Jazz Style – New Orleans Blues

Gillock’s “New Orleans Blues” is a lively, crisp jazz piece that draws on the language of the blues. Syncopation and buoyant rhythms give the music a sense of vitality, while its approachable melody and harmonic sonorities suggest the bright character associated with New Orleans. Listening for repetition and contrast in the phrases makes the flow of the piece and its changes of expression more distinct. In performance, it is important to keep a steady beat without sounding mechanical. Allowing the melody to emerge lightly, keeping the accompaniment restrained, and making effective use of rests and accents brings out the stylish rhythmic character. Avoiding an overly fast tempo and keeping note lengths and touch consistent also helps create a steady jazz atmosphere.