https://youtu.be/2QNCN_T0Ujk

Conversation with Gary Bartz

• Gary Bartz emphasizes the importance of listening.
• Shedding is discussed as a continuous process of improvement.
• Listening is considered more important than playing.
• Shedding can be done anytime, even without instruments.
• Shedding is compared to a workday, suggesting at least 8 hours of practice.
• Half of the practice time is dedicated to technique exercises.
• Gary Bartz recalls practicing with Eric Dolphy using oboe books.
• The importance of practice in honing skills is highlighted.
• Musicians are compared to athletes who train regularly.
• Shedding helps preserve individual identity and sound.
• The host appreciates Gary Bartz's advice on preserving identity.
• The conversation continues with the exploration of shedding practices.

Theme: The importance of hearing and composition in music

• Chords and sounds:
  • Chords are sounds without names.
  • Memorizing chords stunts hearing.
  • Great musicians don't memorize all songs in all keys.
  • Memorizing chords limits possibilities.
• Composition vs. improvisation:
  • Musicians are composers, not just improvisers.
  • Theme and variations: composing new compositions based on themes.
  • Improvisation is unstudied and unprepared.
  • Each solo has a purpose, and musicians think compositionally.
  • Listen to the content, beginnings, endings, and peaks.
• Hearing the future:
  • Musicians can hear the future.
  • Miles Davis could hear further into the future than anyone.
  • Hearing the future allows anticipation and preparation.
• Composing in real time:
  • Composing in real time is informal composition.
  • Informal composition doesn't require writing it down.
  • It's about making up solos and compositions on the spot.
  • Recording sessions can capture spontaneous compositions.