Right hand Rolls

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.