The essential building block in jazz phrasing is the eighth note. It is also one of the most misunderstood components of the genre, particularly by beginners. While I believe that a true jazz feel can only be learned by listening to a lot of jazz, there are a few general misconceptions about how to swing jazz eighth notes that I would like to point out here.

What are Jazz Eighth Notes

Jazz eighth notes are NOT shuffle eighth notes. Let me say this again: jazz eighth notes are not shuffle eighth notes. Novices to the genre often try to impart some measure of ‘swing’ to a performance by playing a triplet feel with a quarter note followed by an 8th note in the triplet group. But absolute straight eighth notes are also a sure killer of any jazz feel. This is especially true when they are aggravated by accents on the downbeat. This phenomenon seems to me as if the novice tries to desperately avoid a shuffle feel, but has not quite gotten it out of his system.

Jazz Phrasing Essentials

To understand how to phrase jazz eighth notes, one must understand a bit about horn instruments. A jazz saxophonist will usually play a line in one long breath. This makes the phrasing very legato. There are no choppy rhythms in this kind of performance. When working on jazz phrasing on a piano or a guitar, one must therefore also work on a good legato technique. Furthermore, a solid jazz feel tends to happen rather away from the downbeats. Try to place accents on the upbeat if possible. This will seem a bit confusing in the beginning, but you will get the hang of it with some practice.

Eighth Note Placement in Jazz Phrasing

As far as the timing, there seem to be as many ways of interpreting the rhythmic placement of the notes as there are players. Some play a bit ahead of the beat, some a bit behind; some “straighter” than others. You must stay away from even eighth notes or even triplets. Depending on the player, the notes are placed somewhere in between. The way you choose to place your note will define your own personal style. In the end, to really get an understanding of how to swing jazz eighth notes, you must listen to a lot of jazz music. Only when you truly immerse yourself in the genre, can you absorb the little nuances of interpretation. Buy as many recordings of great players as you can. Raid your dad’s vinyl collection. Go to a performance when a great band is in town. You get the idea. Sooner or later, you will naturally develop a sense of jazz phrasing that is truly your own.

– Written by Wilfried Geck

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