In this post, I’ll dive into the nuances between Bebop and Post-Bop guitar articulation, and how these styles shape the way we approach playing the guitar. For a more in-depth look, be sure to check out the accompanying video I’ve posted on YouTube, which you can find below.
What is Articulation?
Articulation describes how the guitarist plays each note on the guitar. Specifically, it encompasses various techniques such as Hammer-Ons, Pull-Offs, Slides, Economic Picking, Hybrid Picking, and Bends. For instance, Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs enable smooth transitions between notes, while Slides help create a seamless connection across the fretboard. Furthermore, Economic Picking and Hybrid Picking enhance efficiency and versatility in performance. As a result, these techniques significantly impact the texture and expression of the music, shaping the overall character and emotional depth of a piece.
Bebop vs. Post-Bop Guitar Articulation
In Bebop guitar articulation, the approach is generally more staccato; thus, each note is played sharply and distinctly. Consequently, this results in a crisp and precise sound where almost every note is picked individually. In contrast, Post-Bop articulation tends to be more legato, mimicking the phrasing and fluidity of wind instruments. As a result, you’ll often find that notes connect through slurs and slides, with attacks primarily occurring on the upbeats.
Historical Context
Guitarist Jim Hall was instrumental in popularizing the Post-Bop articulation. Specifically, when playing alongside clarinetist and saxophonist Jimmy Giuffre, Hall adopted a style that mirrored the smooth and connected phrasing of wind instruments. As a result, his playing became more fluid and lyrical.
Example of how horns players would articulate:
Guitarists to Listen To
For Bebop articulation, check out:
- Joe Pass
- Barney Kessel
- Tal Farlow
- Pat Martino
For Post-Bop articulation, listen to:
- John Scofield
- Mick Goodrick
- Kurt Rosenwinkel
- Pat Metheny
Comparing Articulations
To illustrate these differences, I’ve prepared a musical example:
- Bebop Articulation: In this example, the guitarist picks every note clearly and distinctly, showcasing the staccato nature of Bebop playing.
- Post-Bop Articulation: Here, you’ll notice that the guitarist picks notes mainly on the upbeats and uses slurs and slides to connect phrases smoothly.This technique mirrors the fluid articulation of wind instruments, creating a more legato sound.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between Bebop and Post-Bop articulation can greatly influence your playing style and musical expression. Experimenting with these techniques will not only enhance your technical skills but also deepen your appreciation for the rich history of jazz guitar.
Enjoy exploring these styles, and don’t forget to watch the video for a more comprehensive demonstration! If you want to learn about jazz guitar you can book private lessons
