Swingin’ At The Haven

“Swingin’ At The Haven” was composed by Ellis Marsalis, the legendary jazz pianist from New Orleans. Marsalis is known as a pioneer in modern jazz education, and this piece reflects his unique playing style and educational approach. The song evokes the lively atmosphere of New Orleans jazz clubs and is a popular choice among versatile jazz musicians.

The piece is based on a traditional swing rhythm and is written in a medium tempo. The rhythm takes center stage, with a blend of blues scales and rhythmic patterns. The structure of the song follows a traditional format, emphasizing the interaction between melody and rhythm rather than focusing on complex harmonic structures.

Understanding and accurately conveying the swing rhythm is essential when performing this piece. Musicians should aim to capture the essence of New Orleans jazz while adding their own unique interpretation. The rhythm section must maintain a consistent swing feel throughout the piece. In the solo sections, performers can bring new color to the piece by freely interpreting the melody and rhythm. Studying Marsalis’s style will be beneficial for developing your own approach while staying true to the spirit of the composition.