BASING meaning and definition

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What Does "Basing" Mean: The Art of Improvisation in Music

In the world of music, particularly in genres like jazz and improvisational rock, there's a term that might be unfamiliar to many listeners: "basing." In this article, we'll delve into what "basing" means and explore its significance in the context of musical improvisation.

What is Basing?

In essence, basing refers to the process of creating a harmonic foundation or anchor for an improvised solo or musical passage. The term originated from the early days of jazz, where musicians would use chord progressions as a starting point for their improvisations. A bass line or harmonic pattern would serve as the "base" or foundation upon which the rest of the music was built.

The Role of Basing in Improvisation

In musical improvisation, basing is crucial because it provides a sense of structure and direction. When a musician starts to improvise, they need a point of reference to guide their creative process. The bass line or harmonic pattern serves as this anchor, allowing the soloist to explore different melodic ideas while staying rooted in the underlying harmony.

Think of it like building a house: the foundation (basing) is essential for creating a stable and sturdy structure. Similarly, in music, the harmonic foundation provides a solid base for the musician to build upon, ensuring that their improvisations remain coherent and engaging.

Types of Basing

There are different approaches to basing, depending on the style and context of the music. Some common types of basing include:

Chord-based basing: Using chord progressions as a foundation for improvisation.
Scale-based basing: Focusing on specific melodic patterns or scales to create a harmonic anchor.
Rhythmic basing: Employing rhythmic patterns and groove elements as the foundation for improvisation.

Why is Basing Important?

Basing is essential in improvisational music because it:

Provides structure: Gives musicians a sense of direction and organization, allowing them to focus on creative expression.
Creates cohesion: Ensures that different musical elements (melody, harmony, rhythm) work together harmoniously.
Encourages creativity: By providing a foundation, basing frees the musician to explore new ideas and take risks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "basing" is a vital aspect of improvisational music, providing a harmonic foundation for musicians to build upon. Whether it's chord-based, scale-based, or rhythmic, basing offers structure, cohesion, and creative freedom. By understanding the concept of basing, listeners can better appreciate the artistry and skill involved in improvisational music.

Next Steps

If you're interested in exploring the world of improvisational music, start by listening to artists who are masters of the craft. Pay attention to how they use basing to create engaging and coherent solos. You might also consider learning about harmony and chord progressions to better appreciate the underlying structure of your favorite improvised tunes.

References

"The Art of Improvisation": A book by pianist and composer, Lennie Tristano.
"Improvising Jazz Standards": A DVD tutorial series by jazz guitarist, Hal Crook.

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