Tremolos
Tremolos or rolls are another kind of embellishment that is used a lot in blues music. They are often used in the right hand alone or both hands together. Rarely do pianists play extended tremolo passages in the left hand alone. Left-hand tremolos are used mostly to play octaves or roots/fifths in the lower register. Chords with thirds, sevenths, and other extensions sound very muddy when played below C3.
Playing tremolos with a consistent and clean roll can be difficult. It is a technique that does require some practice. One of the biggest mistakes pianists make is playing rolls that have no rhythmical foundation. Remember that when you're playing a tremolo, you're really playing a rhythm. The more accurately you play that rhythm, the cleaner your roll will sound.
To develop your ability to play even and consistent tremolos, try practicing major and minor scales in octaves. Set a tempo, and move up and down the keyboard on downbeats. Use your first and fifth fingers for each tremolo. It is best to practice each hand individually; then put them together after you feel confident. Always listen carefully for continuity, smoothness, and evenness.
FIGURE 10-12 shows you two common tremolo rhythms. They are thirty-second notes and sextuplets, respectively. Bear in mind that everything you play is based on tempo. If the speed of a song is fast enough, the tremolo should be reduced to sixteenth notes or eighth note triplets.
FIGURE 10-12: Anatomy of a Tremolo
FIGURE 10-13 contains tremolos with various fingerings. After you've learned how to play this figure, try rolling chords that you're familiar with: C7, F, or G7. You should also practice the twelve-bar blues rolling your way through an entire chorus with both hands. Long passages of rolls are common in the blues. These extended tremolos really make the music build and climax. See Chapter 11, for more information on applying rolls to the blues.
FIGURE 10-13: Tremolos with Various Fingerings
