You were probably thinking the title was a joke when you read the irony of having a classical stringed instrument in a nasty sounding jazz band. Well, you’re wrong.
First of all, I play the viola, not the violin. It’s just that this generation doesn’t seem to know what a viola is and they assume it’s a bigger violin. While that is mostly correct, violas have different strings and provide a deeper tone. But that’s not the point. Second, I am proud to say that I am a member of an enriching jazz group that loves to create dirty tones while making it very entertaining and fun to hear. When I say dirty tones, I am talking about sounds that may not sound “pretty” or set in stone with the tune. Here’s an example of what I mean by a dirty tone: I’ve been classically trained for 10 years now and I can safely say that even though I do sometimes miss playing the soothing sounds of Bach and Beethoven, I now much rather prefer the bouncy tunes of Monk and Ellington.
I am currently in a band called, Gypsy Citrus, and we have been playing together since the beginning of my freshman year. This experience was, I will admit, a little intimidating, but life-changing. When we first formed the group, I was terrified and embarrassed because why the hell would anyone want a viola in a jazz band? Add that I have never played a jazzy note in my life, I also learned that there is usually no sheet music in jazz so that was the chance to throw my confidence out the window. However, after rehearsing through songs and putting work into my own time to practice my improv skills and playing style, I started to pick up the jazz feeling. We have played around three gigs the past few months and I can say that I have never had this much fun playing in a band than any other symphony I have been a part of. The technique of playing “nasty” and not creating an organized sound like you hear in classical music was not really my forte in the beginning, but over time, I started to get a feel for it. One of my favorite songs to play with my band was “Pass the Peas” by James Brown because it was very uplifting, hip, and I was able to improv a fantastic solo for the first time.
Another great quirk about being a jazz girl is going to all of the shows. I got the influence of jazz from my grandpa because he was a big-time saxophonist back in the 20th century. He was one of the saxophonists for the Dorsey Brothers back in the 50’s and going to see all of the wonderful talents in concerts and bars reminds me of how my grandpa might have performed. I love that I can follow in his footsteps! Also, whenever I get to see live shows, I always get into the groove of the music. Sometimes I even get called up on stage to do a tune with the band. It is terrifying, but much worth the experience and memories!
Growing into jazz was definitely a huge way of getting out of my comfort zone, along with learning a brand new style within my playing. It’s an amazing experience playing such incredible music.
Just always remember to pass the peas, like they used to say!