Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Finding Music Vol 1

Whether you are a teacher and you are looking for music for your class or you are a DJ and want to grow your collection, the search for swing music is a necessity. 

Every DJ has a bit of a different story on how they started. I can't recall mine, it just started :D 

The easiest way, and I've seen many people do this, is to ask a DJ for some music. However, I would actually recommend not simply copying someone else's harddrive, but rather getting out there yourself and starting from scratch. With copied music, whether you're using it for class or a party, you'll have to listen to it beforehand anyway to familiarize yourself with the songs and make sure they fit your needs and taste. So why not just use that time to find your own stuff? 
Two birds, one stone: You'll listen to different songs as you sort through albums, familiarizing yourself with the one you like as you go along, and you'll be building your own unique collection at the same time. 

To start building your own music collection, there are two truly great collections out there:
  • The Ultimate Jazz Archive 
  • Chronological Classics 

Getting one of those, or even both, will give you a great start. Since they are quite big, two tips: 
First, check for musicians you like. 
Second, check for a certain time period. 
Get those records first. The collections themselves will be too overwhelming. 

On a personal note, a "less" known musician I like very much and is verydanceable is Bunny Berigan. The time period I like most is 32-39. Have fun with it! :)

3 comments:

  1. Hey Veit :)
    As far as I'm concerned, I think it's easier to start with one or two compilations of several swing danceable tunes. Among them, there are some who make me want to know more about the artist/compositor...
    and then find and listen more tunes from them :)
    See you gringo :)

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    1. I totally agree with you on the part that it's not the easiest way. But so what? :) Also, those two are goldmines! I wish someone had told me about those when I started.

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  2. I like your idea about starting with a time period. I think it helps to familiarize yourself with different styles and that is a good way to do it. It is easier to build a set with music that has a common thread (whatever the trend of that period).

    Thanks for posting your thoughts!

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