Jazz guitar masterclass 2024 – Exploring the Jazz Frontier with Neff Irizarry
Jazz guitar masterclass 2024 – Exploring the Jazz Frontier with Neff Irizarry – Exclusive Insights Ahead of the Masterclass on October 4-5th, 2024 in Germany.
Jazz guitar masterclass 2024
Exploring the Jazz Frontier with Neff Irizarry – Exclusive Insights Ahead of the Masterclass on October 4-5th, 2024 in Germany.
In the world of jazz, the art of the guitar is carried forward by virtuosos who not only play with skill, but also inspire the next generation of musicians. Neff Irizarry, a master of contemporary jazz guitar, embodies this fusion of talent and mentorship. In anticipation of the long-awaited masterclass, we have the unique opportunity to delve into the musical mind of Neff Irizarry.
As a privileged participant in this masterclass, I’m honored to represent the community of jazz and guitar enthusiasts at Luthiers.com. But before we embark on this musical adventure, allow us to introduce Neff Irizarry, the soul behind this captivating experience.
Neff Irizarry, with his unrivalled expertise and dedication to teaching, guides aspiring musicians through the intricacies of jazz and guitar. His passion for music and commitment to sharing his knowledge are palpable in every note he plays and every piece of advice he dispenses. We look forward to hearing Neff Irizarry’s inspiring thoughts on music, his approach to teaching and, of course, his guitar of choice.
Join us as we prepare to explore jazz in a new light with Neff Irizarry, a mentor and artist whose impact transcends the boundaries of music.
Jazz guitar masterclass 2024
Exploring the Jazz Frontier with Neff Irizarry
Hello Neff, first of all thank you very much for taking the time to do this interview in the run-up to the masterclass on October 4 and 5, 2024 in Germany.
Can you tell us a little about your musical background and what led you to play jazz?
My musical journey began in a vibrant Puerto Rican family where I was surrounded by music from a very young age.
This early exposure was further nurtured by the exceptional music program in Williamsburg, Virginia. I explored various instruments, starting with the autoharp, choir, recorder, clarinet, and bassoon, before ultimately falling in love with the guitar, which my dear brother played as well(12-string Guild). Each of these instruments contributed to my musical development and uniquely informed my guitar playing.
As a teenager, I immersed myself in classic and progressive rock, blues, and funk. However, my path took a definitive turn when I saw Kenny Burrell perform on BET (Black Entertainment Channel). His playing captivated me and made me realize that jazz guitar was my true calling.
I owe a significant part of my journey to my neighbor, who I affectionately call my “Guitar Father.” He sold me a 1964 Gibson ES-175, and my school band director. They kickstarted my formal jazz education by giving me two crucial cassette tapes: Joe Pass and Herb Ellis’s “Two for the Road” and Pat Metheny’s “Off Ramp.” These tapes were pivotal, leading me to attend Berklee’s Five-week Summer Performance Program.
My passion for jazz was solidified when I heard Jim Hall’s work on “The Bridge.” This experience cemented my decision to pursue jazz guitar seriously, leading me to complete both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at Berklee College of Music. During my time at Berklee, I had the privilege of studying with renowned musicians such as Gary Burton, Dave Samuels, Victor Mendoza, Larry Baione, Rick Peckham, Jon Damian, Brett Willmott, Bruce Bartlett, Ed Tomassi, and the legendary Steve Khan. The mentorship and lasting bond I formed with Steve Khan were transformative and pivotal in my career.
Today, I specialize in Latin and contemporary jazz as a guitarist, composer, educator, and author. I have been featured in Sher Music’s “European Real Book.” My performance credits include collaborations with notable musicians like Eddie Henderson, Jimmy Haslip, Victor Mendoza, Brian Melvin, and Julio Romero. For those interested in learning more, I offer instructional videos on Contemporary Latin Jazz Guitar and access to 65 artist transcription tracks featured in my book on my website and YouTube Channel.
How would you describe your approach to jazz guitar?
My approach to jazz guitar is a reflection of my personal identity and musical philosophy.
Being Puerto Rican, rhythm holds a central place in my playing. I always keep rhythm at the forefront of my mind, but I am equally dedicated to the study of harmony. I’m constantly on the lookout for that perfect chord voicing that brings the music to life.
In terms of sound, I gravitate towards a dark, warm tone, particularly in the mid frequencies, with just a touch of brightness. I’m an enthusiastic user of pedals and have developed a method to enhance my sound using them. However, I’m careful not to let them overpower my natural tone, using them sparingly when necessary, such as with the Bigsby Pedal.
When it comes to technique, I incorporate both pick and fingerstyle playing, which allows me to achieve a wide range of tonal colors and dynamics. My compositional approach and harmonic sense are deeply influenced by my extensive listening, transcribing, and dedication to understanding different styles.
Latin jazz is a significant part of my musical identity, and my melodic sense is shaped by the rich musical traditions I’ve immersed myself in over the years. I firmly believe in the importance of hard work, consistent practice, and a deep understanding of harmony and time.
This dedication helps me continually evolve as a musician and refine my approach to jazz guitar.
Jazz guitar masterclass 2024
Exploring the Jazz Frontier with Neff Irizarry
Influences and inspiration:
Which artists or guitarists have influenced you the most?
Sonny Rollins, John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Jim Hall, Wes Montgomery, Grant Green, McCoy Tyner, Gary Burton, Shostakovich, Jobim, Tito Puente, Led Zeppelin, Pat Metheny, Freddie King, Robben Ford, Steve Khan, Steely Dan, Ralph Towner, John McLaughlin, Cal Tjader, Yellowjackets………..
Are there any specific albums or recordings that have had a major impact on your musical style?
I will just list a few:
- Sonny Rollins “The Bridge”
- John Coltrane “The John Coltrane Quartet Plays”
- Wynton Kelly “Smokin at the Half Note”
- Miles Davis “Water Babies”
- McCoy Tyner “Time for Tyner”
- Jim Hall “Concierto”
- Steve Khan “Crossings”
- Pat Metheny “Rejoicing”
- Ralph Towner “Matchbook”
- Gary Burton “Passengers”
- Shostakovich 24 Preludes and Fugues
- Antonio Carlos Jobim “Passarim”
- Tito Puente “Top Percussion”
- Yellowjackets “River”
Jazz guitar masterclass 2024
Exploring the Jazz Frontier with Neff Irizarry
Creativity and the Composition Process:
How do you approach the compositional process in jazz?
My approach to the compositional process in jazz is a blend of inspiration and academic rigor.
Sometimes, a composition flows naturally and quickly because I can hear it clearly in my mind. Other times, I intentionally rely on my academic training to explore new directions, ensuring that neither my fingers nor my ears fall into familiar patterns.
When it comes to committing a composition to paper, I typically use one of four methods. I might work on a piece mentally, developing it entirely in my mind before transcribing it. Alternatively, I write traditionally with pen and paper or using Sibelius. Sometimes, I compose directly on the guitar, which allows me to explore the instrument’s unique possibilities. Lastly, I may compose at the piano or while thinking about the specific instrument I’m writing for, which helps tailor the piece to its intended sound and capabilities.
What advice would you give budding musicians about developing their own artistic voice?
My advice to budding musicians about developing their own artistic voice is to focus on understanding the journey of your heroes without getting trapped in simply mimicking them.
Study the different periods of their development to see how they evolved over time. Create etudes based on specific motifs, harmonies, and rhythms that you extract from their work to deeply internalize their techniques.
Expand your horizons by exploring new sounds and drawing inspiration from other instruments and genres. Exhaust all possibilities to find what resonates with you personally. Most importantly, enjoy the process and stay persistent—music is a never-ending journey.
Remember Clarke Terry’s words: “Imitate, assimilate, and innovate.” Start by imitating the greats, assimilate their techniques into your playing, and then innovate to create something uniquely your own.
Jazz guitar masterclass 2024
Exploring the Jazz Frontier with Neff Irizarry
Technique and Practice:
What aspects of jazz guitar technique do you consider essential to master?
When it comes to mastering jazz guitar technique, several aspects are crucial to focus on:
- Usage of Tension and Release: Understanding how to manipulate tension and release in articulation, melody, harmony, and rhythm is essential for creating dynamic and engaging performances.
- Chord Voicings: Mastering a variety of chord voicings allows for harmonic richness and versatility in your playing. Additionally, understanding different forms of voice leading enables you to emulate specific periods of jazz guitar and achieve smooth transitions between chords.
- Logical and Singable Melodic Lines: Developing melodic lines that are both logical and singable enhances the expressiveness and coherence of your improvisations.
- Emulating Other Instruments: Learning to emulate the sounds of other instruments on the guitar expands your tonal palette and enables you to bring a diverse range of musical influences into your playing.
- Left Hand and Right Hand Technique: Developing strong left and right hand techniques is fundamental for achieving precision, clarity, and control in your playing.
- Articulation: Paying attention to articulation techniques such as dynamics, accents, and legato/phrasing enhances the expressiveness and authenticity of your playing.
- Rhythm: Mastery of rhythm is paramount in jazz guitar playing. This includes playing in time, subdividing rhythms accurately, and feeling the swing triplet feel inherent in jazz music.
By focusing on these essential aspects of jazz guitar technique, you can build a strong foundation for expressive and compelling musical performances.
Can you share some of your favorite practice routines or exercises?
One of my favorite practice routines revolves around transcription.
It’s like a full-body workout for your musical skills. When I transcribe, I dive deep into every aspect of the music, extracting motifs, phrases, rhythms, harmonies, and articulations. From there, I devise exercises to hone each element individually, which helps me internalize and apply them in my own playing.
To maintain dexterity, I enjoy practicing combinations of left hand and right hand techniques. I focus on both horizontal and vertical movements, often with a specific rhythmic value in mind. For example, I might work on triplet patterns with left hand combinations like 142434 combined with alternate picking. These exercises help keep my fingers nimble and precise.
Another favorite routine of mine involves mixing random single note lines with intervals and chords. This universal concept, which I discuss in my book “Contemporary Latin Jazz Guitar,” is not limited to Latin guitar—it’s applicable across various styles and genres. By integrating single note lines, intervals, and chords, I strengthen my musical vocabulary and enhance my ability to create compelling improvisations and compositions.
During my workshops, I’m always excited to share these technical workouts and explore how they can benefit other musicians in their practice routines.
Jazz guitar masterclass 2024
Exploring the Jazz Frontier with Neff Irizarry
Masterclass:
What can participants expect from your masterclass?
Participants can expect an immersive experience in the Contemporary Jazz Guitar Workshop, where we’ll delve into a modern approach to jazz guitar that aligns with my philosophy of playing.
Our aim is to provide personalized guidance tailored to each participant’s needs, fostering growth and development in real-time.
During my segment of the masterclass, I’ll focus on sharing insights into sophisticated harmony, counterpoint, and melodic lines, all infused with that distinct “Latin Tinge.” Whether exploring original compositions or applying techniques to the standard songbook repertoire, participants can expect to gain valuable insights and practical tools to elevate their playing to new heights.
Are there any specific aspects of jazz music or jazz guitar that you intend to cover in particular?
Certainly!
In this workshop, I’ll focus on strategies tailored for jazz guitarists to seamlessly integrate Latin sensibilities into their playing. We’ll explore various techniques, such as rhythmic patterns, harmonic structures, and melodic phrasing, that capture the essence of Latin music while maintaining the integrity of jazz.
However, I want to emphasize that my agenda is driven by the needs and interests of the students. While Latin jazz will be a key focus, I’m open to addressing any other specific aspects of jazz music or jazz guitar that participants are eager to explore. Let’s make the most of our time together and see how far we can delve into enhancing your skills and understanding of jazz guitar.
Jazz guitar masterclass 2024
Exploring the Jazz Frontier with Neff Irizarry
Advice for students:
For guitarists aspiring to a career in jazz, what advice or encouragement would you give them?
For guitarists aspiring to a career in jazz, I offer the following advice and encouragement:
- Find a Mentor: Seek guidance from a seasoned mentor who can offer valuable insights, feedback, and support as you navigate your jazz career.
- Understand the Business: Take the time to learn about the business side of the music industry. Understanding contracts, networking, and self-promotion are essential skills for success.
- Manage Expectations: Set realistic expectations for yourself and your career trajectory. Understand that progress takes time and patience.
- Avoid Comparison: Resist the temptation to compare yourself to others. Focus on your own journey and growth, celebrating your achievements along the way.
- Opportunity and Preparation: Be prepared to seize opportunities when they arise. Continuously hone your skills and stay ready for whatever comes your way.
- Reflect and Seek Help: Be introspective about your strengths and weaknesses, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. Surround yourself with a supportive community of fellow musicians.
- Kindness and Professionalism: Approach every interaction with kindness, professionalism, and reliability. Cultivate a reputation as someone who is easy to work with and trustworthy.
- Maintain Passion and Productivity: Keep your passion for jazz music alive and burning. Stay productive by consistently practicing, composing, and performing.
- Long-term Development: Dedicate yourself fully to your long-term development as a musician. Commit to continuous learning, growth, and evolution in your craft.
What are the biggest challenges you’ve encountered on your own journey, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve encountered on my journey has been finding balance.
Balancing the demands of a career in music with personal well-being and other aspects of life can be daunting. However, I found several strategies that helped me overcome this challenge.
Firstly, I discovered the practice of Tai Chi, which not only helped me cultivate physical balance but also brought a sense of calm and centeredness to my life. Sailing became another outlet for finding balance, offering a peaceful escape and allowing me to connect with nature.
Additionally, the companionship of my Jack Russell Terrier provided joy and companionship, reminding me of the importance of simplicity and living in the present moment. Long walks became a form of meditation, providing clarity and perspective amidst the busyness of life.
Moreover, I was fortunate to have found a great partner and a supportive extended family. Their love, understanding, and assistance in managing priorities played a significant role in achieving balance in my life.
Jazz guitar masterclass 2024
Exploring the Jazz Frontier with Neff Irizarry
Future projects:
Are there any projects or recordings you’re currently working on that you’d like to share with your fans?
Absolutely!
I have several exciting projects in the pipeline that I’m thrilled to share with my fans:
- “Contemporary Latin Jazz Guitar Vol 2 Solos”: My second book, soon to be released through Sher Music Co in June, is a continuation of my exploration into Latin Jazz guitar. It offers guitarists a creative starting point to delve deeper into this rich musical tradition, providing insights into harmony, melody, and rhythm inspired by Afro-Cuban traditions and Jazz bebop.
- New CD “Cambio” (Change): Scheduled for release in the autumn, “Cambio” is a musical journey that pays homage to the timeless union of guitar and vibraphone. Rooted in my Puerto Rican heritage and Scandinavian influences, this album showcases my Afro-Cuban Latin Jazz Guitar style, shaped under the mentorship of Grammy-nominated guitarist Steve Khan. Featuring a stellar ensemble including Three-time Grammy-winning bassist Jimmy Haslip, virtuoso vibraphonist Martin Fabricius, and talented percussionist Ricardo Padilla, “Cambio” promises a vibrant fusion of Latin rhythms and soulful melodies. Keep an eye out for a composition dedicated to the late Mick Goodrick entitled “San Migue de los Accordes” (St Michael of the Chords).
- Original Solo Jazz Guitar Videos: I’m excited about the upcoming release of original Solo Jazz Guitar videos in collaboration with Game Changer Audio, showcasing the incredible Plus and Bigsby Pedals. These videos will highlight the versatility and creativity of these pedals in enhancing the solo jazz guitar experience.
I’m eagerly looking forward to sharing these projects with my fans and hope they bring joy and inspiration to all who listen. Stay tuned for more updates and announcements!
What are your goals or aspirations for the future as a musician?
As a musician, my goals and aspirations for the future are multifaceted.
Firstly, I aim to continue evolving as both a performer and composer, constantly exploring new musical territories and refining my craft. There’s a wealth of musical knowledge and skills that I’m eager to delve into, and I look forward to the growth and discoveries that lie ahead.
In addition to my musical pursuits, I have plans to write several more books, further contributing to the wealth of knowledge available to aspiring musicians. Sharing my insights and experiences through writing is a fulfilling endeavor, and I’m committed to continuing my role as an educator and clinician. I derive immense joy from teaching and mentoring others, and I’m dedicated to helping aspiring musicians unlock their full potential.
Furthermore, I have a vast catalogue of compositions waiting to be recorded, and I’m excited about the prospect of dedicating a future record to acoustic guitars. Exploring the rich sonic possibilities of acoustic guitars is a passion of mine, and I look forward to bringing these compositions to life in a recording setting.
Overall, my future as a musician is filled with a sense of curiosity, growth, and creativity. I’m committed to pursuing excellence in all aspects of my musical journey and continuing to share my passion for music with others.
Jazz guitar masterclass 2024
Exploring the Jazz Frontier with Neff Irizarry
Motivation and Passion:
What motivates you most in your musical practice?
What motivates me most in my musical practice is the pursuit of continuous improvement and the joy of discovery.
Each practice session is an opportunity to uncover new facets of my instrument, explore different genres, and push my boundaries. One specific example is when I was learning a particularly challenging etude by Mick Goodrick or Ralph Towner. Initially, it seemed insurmountable, but breaking it down into manageable sections and gradually mastering it gave me an immense sense of accomplishment.
This drive for improvement is coupled with the excitement of discovering new techniques and interpretations. The moment I find a new way to express a passage or solve a technical problem, it feels like a breakthrough. This ongoing journey of growth and discovery keeps me motivated and passionate about my practice.
Moreover, this dedication aligns with my broader goal of becoming a versatile and expressive musician who can connect deeply with audiences. Knowing that each hour of practice brings me closer to that goal is incredibly motivating.
What is your greatest passion as a musician?
My greatest passion as a musician is performing live.
There’s something incredibly exhilarating about being on stage, feeling the energy of the audience, and creating a unique, shared experience through music. One of my most memorable moments was performing at a local festival where the crowd’s enthusiasm was palpable. As I played, I could see how the music resonated with people, creating smiles, tears, and a sense of connection that transcended words.
This passion for live performance drives me to constantly refine my skills and bring the best version of my art to every show. It’s not just about playing the notes perfectly; it’s about conveying emotion, telling a story, and making a real connection with the audience. I live for those moments of shared energy and expression, and they remind me why I chose to become a musician in the first place.
Equally important to me is sharing this passion through teaching. I find immense joy in helping others discover their own musical voices and watching them grow as musicians. Teaching allows me to pass on the techniques and emotional depth that I strive to bring to my own performances. Whether it’s guiding a student through a challenging piece or inspiring them to find their unique style, teaching is a natural extension of my love for music.
When I see a student light up with understanding or perform with newfound confidence, it reinforces my own commitment to music. Teaching not only enhances my own understanding and appreciation of music but also creates a ripple effect, spreading the joy and transformative power of music to others.
It’s incredibly rewarding to know that I am helping to cultivate the next generation of musicians who will continue to share and evolve this art form.
Jazz guitar masterclass 2024
Exploring the Jazz Frontier with Neff Irizarry
A Luthier’s Guitar:
Can you tell us about your main guitar, an Archtop built by luthier Theo Scharpach? What distinguishes it from other guitars you’ve played before? How has this guitar influenced your sound and musical approach since you acquired it?
My main guitar, an Archtop built by luthier Theo Scharpach, is an instrument of pure delight. Named “Giselle,” Theo’s OpusG is a testament to his meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. What distinguishes this guitar from others I’ve played before is its focused sound and blissful overtones, thanks to the elaborate construction techniques Theo employs.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Giselle is how it seems to read my soul. It reacts effortlessly to my touch, allowing me to effortlessly express whatever musical ideas I have in my head. It’s as if Theo has crafted the perfect instrument tailored specifically for me—he truly is a living sorcerer of guitar-making!
While I grew up as a “Gibson Boy” and still cherish my 1964 ES 175D and 1997 ES-345 Mono Custom Shop guitars, Giselle offers a completely different playing experience that has profoundly influenced my sound and musical approach. Playing this OpusG has deepened my appreciation for the uniqueness of each instrument and the personal connection they create with the player.
You can hear Giselle’s influence on my latest record, “Cambio” (Change), where its rich tones and responsive dynamics shine through. This experience has also underscored the importance of trying different instruments and exploring various styles, as each guitar offers its own distinct personality and sonic possibilities.
I wholeheartedly believe that everyone should have the opportunity to play an archtop guitar like a Scharpach. They truly represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship and musical expression.
I’ve seen on social networks, via various photos and posts you’ve published, that you use a fairly well-developed system of amplification and effects.
Can you tell us a bit more about it?
Now we get to gear talk!!
I use Curt Mangan Monels and Fusion Matched Strings, Vovox Cables, Gibson GG-50 Medium Jazz Picks, and a Pearce G2r in Stereo with two Mesa Boogie 1×12 Open Back Cabinets that house 90-watt Black Widow Speakers. My effects are as follows: TC Electronics Nova System (a slightly indistinguishable amount of chorus, delay, various EQs, compression, and digital reverb), a Mutron C-200 Volume pedal, Game Changer Audio Plus, and Bigsby Pedals. On request, I play a rare White Roland GR 300/303 Analog Synthesizer Guitar, which I love to bits, and I even use a Korg DVP-1 for harmonic effects.
Jazz guitar masterclass 2024
Exploring the Jazz Frontier with Neff Irizarry
Closing words and thanks:
Before closing, I’d like to express my gratitude to you, Neff, for taking the time to share your thoughts and expertise with our readers. It was a real privilege to interview you. In closing, what would be your final words to Luthiers.com readers and to all those who look forward to attending your masterclass?
I want to thank Christophe, Luthiers.com, and all of you for reading this extensive interview. My final words for all those who look forward to attending the masterclass are to let’s take a musical journey together on October 4-5th in Cleves, Germany, and remember:
“The music begins with you.”
Towards New Musical Horizons with Neff Irizarry: The Final Word
As this interview draws to a close, we’re filled with palpable anticipation at the prospect of plunging into the world of jazz alongside Neff Irizarry at the next masterclass. His dedication to the art of jazz guitar and his commitment to his students promise an enriching and inspiring experience for all those lucky enough to take part.
As the first registrant for this masterclass, I feel honored to represent the community of guitar and jazz enthusiasts on Luthiers.com. But most of all, I’m looking forward to discovering Neff Irizarry’s knowledge and advice, and soaking up his passion for music.
As we prepare for this musical adventure, I’m already thinking of all those who will be joining us. Whether you’re a budding student or a seasoned musician, I encourage you to take this opportunity to discover the subtleties of jazz with Neff Irizarry.
In anticipation of this unforgettable musical experience, I invite you to stay tuned to Luthiers.com for all the latest updates and announcements concerning this masterclass. May our musical journey be filled with inspiration, discovery and a shared passion for jazz music.
Jazz guitar masterclass 2024
Exploring the Jazz Frontier with Neff Irizarry – Exclusive Insights Ahead of the Masterclass on October 4-5th, 2024 in Germany :
We also invite you to follow him on his various social networks:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neffirizarryguitar
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neffirizarrymusic/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neff-irizarry-b2a500/
- Twitter: https://x.com/neffirizarry
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbeXs_c5RE90xLlYftIoH6A
- Website: https://neffirizarry.com/
Jazz guitar masterclass 2024
Exploring the Jazz Frontier with Neff Irizarry – Exclusive Insights Ahead of the Masterclass on October 4-5th, 2024 in Germany.
In the coming weeks, as for others luthiers for plucked string instruments, luthiers for bowed string instruments, amps & effects makers, wood & supplies dealers, lutherie events, jobs, schools & teachers subscribers on our site, you will be able to follow our series of mini-interviews dedicated to the fascinating world of luthiers.
See you soon…
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