New Orleans Tradition in Piano Playing

In this lesson, we'll explore the techniques used in the New Orleans music tradition, particularly focusing on the right hand.

Common Techniques

• Roles and Runs:

  • As you'll hear throughout the New Orleans tradition, the right hand often features a lot of roles and runs.
  • Examples in music by artists like Dr. John, James Booker, and Professor Long demonstrate these techniques.

• Historical Influences:

  • While Jelly Roll Morton used runs, he didn't always apply them in the same way as contemporary musicians.

Example Passage

You might try something like this:

"Going up to the V chord, 3, 4, 1."

• This little idea is reminiscent of something Dr. John utilizes in "Junko Partner."
• It has a quality that could be likened to a trumpet line, possibly something Louis Armstrong would have played.

Chord Insights

• The left-hand notes often anticipate movement, a classic James Booker technique.
• If reaching a tenth is challenging, consider this approach:

"Going on to that F."

• Remember, we are on the V chord (a D7 chord):
  • The F acts like a sharp 9.
  • The B flat behaves as a sharp 5.

Syncopation

James Booker's unique style also includes:

• Playing straight against swung rhythms, often in 16th notes.
• This technique can be quite fast and tricky, showcased in his version of "Make a Better World."

Phrasing Techniques

Going back to those rolls leading to the V chord:

• Complete Phrase:

  • "3, 4, 1" forms a cohesive musical phrase.

• James Booker frequently uses rolling techniques to outline a dominant seventh chord while weaving in the major seventh.

Conclusion

These little rolls and flourishes are integral to creating a distinctively New Orleans sound in your playing. Practice them regularly to incorporate that authentic style into your music.