Thursdays 8:15 - 9:45 pm 7/6 - 8/10 (6 weeks)

Explore the role of jazz guitar in hip-hop and other modern contexts. Study and play famous hip-hop samples lifted from jazz recordings, including those of Grant Green, Kenny Burrell, and others, while drawing inspiration from the recordings of influential hip-hop producers and beat-makers, including Madlib, J Dilla, and Dabrye. Discuss hip-hop’s evolution and rhythmic foundations and how jazz guitar is utilized in numerous classic beats, melodies, and hooks. We’ll spend lots of time jamming and improvising on hip-hop grooves, stressing the importance of playing with rhythmic feeling while creating space for other musicians.

Suggested prerequisites: some previous jazz guitar experience and knowledge of 7th chords. 

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.