Bebop Guitar
For guitar players who are studying jazz, taking the next step in jazz improvisation can mean incorporating the
distinct language of the bebop style into one’s playing. Most players start out in jazz by matching scales to their parent chord (such
as A Dorian or A Aeolian matched to an A minor 7 chord). But to really enter the authentic historic realm of jazz - and to learn
that specific language – means studying the architects of Bebop. Charlie Parker was the founding father of the style in the early
40’s, and the seven phrases shown below, transcribed from some of his solos, demonstrate many of the common devices used in this unique
melodic style. The intervallic interest, chromaticism, and encircling of target chord tones – seen in the phrases below - are just
a few of the techniques that set this style apart from other forms of improvisation.
If the Bebop melodic style sparks your interest, a great resource for further study is The Charlie Parker Omnibook, which, after three decades, remains a definitive collection of Parker solos, for study of the devices, riffs, and patterns that define Bebop. The book is available in concert key, for guitarists, but put on your reading glasses - there’s no TAB in that one. For poor readers, Voelpel’s Charlie Parker for Guitar has received good reviews and comes with TAB. Combine these studies with intentional active listening as a proven way to incorporate this musical language into your playing.