[Dixielandjazz] improvising

[James Kashishian]

Beryl wrote:

DOES ANYONE HAVE ANY TIPS THAT WILL HELP ME TO BECOME BETTER AT
IMPROVISING,

My suggestion would be for you to write to DJML member David W.
Littlefield 
dwlit at cpcug.org 
who has put together a list of very good songs to play along with just
for this sort of thing.  

Just as a hint, and not meaning to sound like a no it all, be sure not
to use capital letters when you write to David, as that is shouting when
using the internet.  I'm sure you'll find him very helpful.  

You'll most likely get other suggestions from members, but "playing
along" is probably one of the best suggestions I can think of.  Start
listening and copying what the bass line is doing, which will get your
ear accustomed to the most common changes, then little by little you can
actually "replace" the instrument you are playing......that is, not
actually listen to the guy playing your horn, and put yours in his
place.  

Good luck, Jim (in Madrid)