However, classical music is not so syncopated as jazz (in general).
If you don't tap it's really easy to turn the time around.
I mean there are alot of figures coming in an eighth note early and
if you are not tapping that, syncopated figure is liable to end up
on 1 instead of say the and of 4.
Some jazz players tap, some don't.
As long as you can keep the time, it doesnt matter I guess.
reed
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I tend to tap but have found (been taught) that by really internalizing
the melody to a song when
learning it, really helps to not get fooled in turning around the 1.
Having the melody sort of floating in the background helps two things:
1. Keeping your place when the syncopation gets real wild. (Even a strong
accent on an offbeat
can throw people off)
2. Aids you in soloing against that melody.
Pete.