Thursdays 8:15 - 9:45 pm 9/21 - 11/30 (10 weeks) no class 11/23

This class focuses on the technique and style of innovative and individualistic jazz guitarist Bill Frisell. In particular, coursework demonstrates the importance of playing from the melody, open-string chord voicings, and generating improvisational ideas with simplicity but not without sophistication. We’ll be doing a lot of listening and examining transcriptions from albums and collaborations from the early 80s to the present. Class time will be spent primarily on listening and analysis, with some playing of short excerpts when prompted. So bring your guitar!

Prerequisites: Knowledge of basic jazz theory (7th chords and major and minor scales) and an interest in the music of Bill Frisell!

About Derek Barber

Derek Barber is a guitarist, songwriter, and music educator based in the Bay Area. He shares his expertise in Music Theory, jazz combos, and jazz guitar as a teacher at the Blue Bear Music School in San Francisco. Derek actively contributes to and performs with acclaimed Bay Area bands such as Bells Atlas, Salami Rose Joe Louis, Astronauts, etc., and his solo project, Perhapsy. He is also a sought-after session guitarist, lending his talents to numerous recordings at prestigious studios, including Tiny Telephone Studios, Fantasy, and Decibelle. With a BFA in Jazz Improvisation from the University of Michigan, Derek studied under renowned jazz musicians Geri Allen and Robert Hurst on a full-ride scholarship. His studies in improvisation, transcription, and music theory have greatly influenced his musical pursuits and his over fifteen years of teaching experience. Derek approaches teaching with a cheerful and professional attitude, firmly believing that music and art are exciting and life-long pursuits. His guitar work has been praised for its stellar songwriting and exquisite blend of jagged edges and smooth licks, as noted by Premier Guitar Magazine and AFROPUNK.