Wynton Kelly, one of the greatest jazz pianists of all time, is known for his swinging, rhythmic and bluesy, but the same time melodic soloing, individual block chord-style as well as groovy and highly supportive work as an accompanist.
His trio with Paul Chambers and Jimmy Cobb was one of the most important piano trios of the 60s’, and was used by numerous band leaders, from Miles Davis and John Coltrane to Joe Henderson and Wes Montgomery, just to name few.
Kelly Blue - Trio and sextet w/ Paul Chambers (b), Jimmy Cobb (dr), Nat Adderley (cornet), Bobby Jaspar (fl) & Benny Golson (sax) 1959 Spotify Album Link Here
Kelly At Midnight - Trio w/ Paul Chambers (b) & Philly Joe Jones (dr) 1960 Spotify Album Link Here
Exercises on this thread are built to give the students a deeper view on Wynton Kellys style, soloing, comping as well as an overall look into the tradition of jazz through his artistry.
Exercises are transcription-based, following with a closer look into certain details of his playing. This way we can combine ear-training with learning the language of jazz, as well as analyzing closely what is happening.
This looks great Tuomo - thanks for creating this assignment.
For all students working on this transcription exercise, definitely check out the tutorial below where we explore the style and nuances of Wynton Kelly’s playing over an F Blues:
I’ve also added a reference to this thread on that lesson page.
Very interesting exercise, thanks Tuomo! I find it very hard to find the right fit of the notes within the bars (on which beat does each note fall?). Do you have any tips to help?
very good question, I would start with counting the Beats 1, 2, 3, 4 throughout the recording. Then do the same to the parts which you have already transcribed, and try to focus on the notes, whether they land on the beats or between the beats. Then do this to the bars you are transcribing. Key is first to hear the notes that land on beats, then start to fill in rest of the notes.
Also, there are apps such as ‘Transcribe’ that you might find helpful; you can slow the recording down, and loop parts easily.
