Bebop Scales Etude #1 for Trumpet

Here's a neat introduction to the world of bebop by Jeff Lewis. From my experience, bebop has been a stumbling block for a lot of people because they can't really "hear" what's going on and they can't get with the rhythm. Jeff takes the time to break the lesson down into simple bebop scales and attaches the scales to the Charlie Parker tune Donna Lee.
Also, for those who are a little more adventuresome, instead of starting the scales or phrase on the downbeat when your tapping foot is on the floor, start on the upbeat when your tapping foot is in the air. Just add an eighth rest at the beginning of each scale or phrase. The more upbeats you have, the more it will swing. A simple way to get an idea of what I'm talking about is to play the C Major scale in 8th notes up and down starting on the downbeat (when your tapping foot is on the floor). Next, do the same scale again but start the scale on the upbeat (when your tapping foot is in the air) by adding an 8th rest at the beginning of the scale. I know some will find the upbeat thing a bit weird but the more upbeats you have, the more it will swing. Be sure to NOT do dotted 8ths and 16ths instead of straight 8th notes. It will "feel" right but it will sound ricky ticky. Just do straight 8th notes for both examples.
Enjoy!

Mike Ansberry

Thanks for the link!

@Mike-Ansberry said in Bebop Scales Etude #1 for Trumpet:

Thanks for the link!

Glad you like it. Have fun!

Brian White

Great video, I have too transcribed some hardbop tunes - https://bigdaymusic.co.uk/hard-bop-sheet-music-jazz/

enjoy - B