An analysis of guitar improvisation techniques in Bill Frisell trio albums

Abstract

Jazz guitarist Bill Frisell is an innovative musician who stands out as perhaps one of the three most influential jazz guitarists since the 1980s, together with John Scofield and Pat Metheny. Frisell was influenced by a number of traditional jazz musicians but sought to create a new style in both his improvisations, com positions, and arrangements. Frisell is a pioneer of modern jazz guitar and has blended country, bluegrass, blues, and rock music into jazz, performing with such jazz giants as Paul Motian, Ron Carter, Dave Holland, and Elvin Jones. This study will explore Frisell’s improvisational techniques within the context of several trio recordings. I have transcribed and analyzed eight selected pieces recorded by Bill Frisell’s trios. This study reveals many impressive and provocative features found in Frisell’s improvisational solo and comping styles in the trio setting.