In 2020 millions of musicians have experimented in creative ways out of necessity, making new and old technology their instrument. This is especially true in education where playing music together live is essential to the experience, yet many students are left to study at home with limited in-person interaction with other students and teachers.
As the son of school teachers and musicians, Trad Jazz was an intimate part of my music education. Some traditions die hard for good reason, such as the countless standard tunes in the Jazz canon. A lot of songs have lasted over a hundred years, but every song added to that repertoire is a slight progression. Collective improvisation leads naturally to evolution, even as generations have attempted to adhere to tradition.
Unquestionably technology has extended the potential of music to reach fans. With increased bandwidth comes more bands utilizing that bandwidth, and educators need to answer hard questions about balancing traditional rehearsal with independent study.
2020 demanded teachers and students learn the new tools of the trade as well as the old. Fortunately for teachers, students can help in the technology department, but this first requires providing the necessary tools, like guaranteed reliable internet for everyone. Latency-free remote jamming now exists thanks to researchers like UC Davis trombone teacher Michael Dessen, but cre
