Jazz Theory...

[Z3ratul]

Note: Wasn't sure exactly where this would belong... I decided on here because I figured I'd get a better response, even if the Static Junglegym might arguably be a better place to put this topic... meh.

Just posting here to get some insight from any musicians (preferably Jazz) on helping me with my improvisation. I play Tenor Sax (1st year, but Clarinet for six, so it was easy to pick up) in my high school's Jazz Ensemblem. I'm very comfortable with most of my major / minor scales, and can go into most of the other modes with little trouble as well. Rythmically, it all comes very naturally for me... I never struggle with that (too much SM?). Technique wise, while somewhat limited to being on a new insturment, I can still do good stuff on the Tenor... just nothing too advanced, especially cause the horn is crap >=(. I understand chord progression and what not...

Here's my problem. When I play an improv, the solo sounds good, it makes sense, but it always lacks a motif... idk. I'll use dynamics to make it go somewhere, it (usually) resolves nicely if I decide to throw in some disonance, and I'll start basic and try to have the solo, however long it may be, develop into something... but it never really does. It's like I'm just riding the wave, and when my solo's done, it leaves you with this sense of 'what were you going for?'. It's hard for me to explain... my solos never have an idea that's it's based off of, it's just random crap that I spew. Yes, it goes with the music, but that's all. There's no consistency to it...

Again, it's difficult for me to explain... it's just missing something. I understand what I'm playing up there, but it's lacking. Hopefully somebody gets what I'm trying to say... if anybody can help, I'd really appreciate. =)