Shows
Jazz Piano SchoolCocktail Jazz Piano Ballads: The Only Secret You NeedThere is one secret taken directly from my new "Proficient Jazz Pianist" course on cocktail style ballads that you need to know. And I'm going to explain it and tell you what it is in this podcast lesson.
My new "Procient Jazz Pianist" course is actually a 3 in 1 course pack that covers, how to play in a group, solo piano and improvisation.
Go to https://jazzpianoschool.com/proficient to get a $200 discount now during this launch.
Also...
Have you been trying to learn jazz piano with youtube videos, dvds, teachers but feel
like you're still constantly guessing, can't play any...2025-02-2428 min
Jazz Piano SchoolAll of You Jazz PianoI recently had a member request a walkthrough of this for Valentines day so Suzanna, here you go!
Don't forget to go to https://jazzpianoschool.com/proficient
to pick up my latest new 3 pack bundle course covering the 3 most coveted goals in jazz piano. #1 - Playing in a band, #2 - Solo Piano Cocktail Style Ballads and more, and of course #3 - Improvisation.
Also...
Have you been trying to learn jazz piano with youtube videos, dvds, teachers but feel
like you're still constantly guessing, can't play any tunes without copying what someone else has played, and don't know how to connect...2025-02-1540 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano Comping Plan 2025: Part 2Comping and voicings sneak their way into every aspect of jazz piano. If you don't know how, why, and when to use specific voicings, everything else will crumble. Plan your comping strategy in this lesson!
Don't forget to pick up my free jazz piano planning guide for 2025 by going to:
https://jazzpianoschool.com/2025guide
Also our New Years sale is still going!
Get discounts and deals, checkout our New Years Sale at the link below:
https://jazzpianoschool.com/holiday.
Also...
Have you been trying to learn jazz piano with youtube videos, dvds, teachers but feel
like you're still constantly guessing...2025-01-221h 27
Jazz Piano SchoolPlan Your Jazz Piano For 2025: Part 1It's not information students need, it's planning and focus. These days the internet is DISTRACTING. It makes students more lost than ever before. That is why I'm going to help you plan for 2025. Tell you what you need to learn, and help you sprint towards your goals.
To get huge discounts and deals, checkout our New Years Sale at the link below:
https://jazzpianoschool.com/holiday.
Also...
Have you been trying to learn jazz piano with youtube videos, dvds, teachers but feel
like you're still constantly guessing, can't play any tunes without copying what someone else has played, and don't...2025-01-091h 22
Jazz Piano SchoolPractice Jazz Piano Comping With MeIn this lesson we will PRACTICING our comping. I'll be practicing with you and giving you tips. My 3 Goal Proficiency System is being released on Black Friday. This lesson is directly related to goal #1 that many students have. They come to me and want to comp in a group or get better at comping in a group. Here's what you need to learn to be proficient at comping.
To get more info about my new 3 Goal System Release and our huge Black Friday deal go to...
https://jazzpianoschool.com/blackfriday2024
for more info.
Also...
Have you been trying to learn...2024-11-201h 21
Jazz Piano SchoolHow To Jazz Piano Comp in a GroupMy 3 Goal Proficiency System is being released on Black Friday. This lesson is directly related to goal #1 that many students have. They come to me and want to comp in a group or get better at comping in a group. Here's what you need to learn to be proficient at comping.
To get more info about my new 3 Goal System Release and our huge Black Friday deal go to...
https://jazzpianoschool.com/blackfriday2024
for more info.
Also...
Have you been trying to learn jazz piano with youtube videos, dvds, teachers but feel
like you're still constantly guessing, can't play any...2024-11-151h 31
Jazz Piano SchoolEasy Jazz Piano Improvisation TipsTime to dig into improvisation! It's hard, it's mysterious... but it doesn't have to be. Follow these easy tips to make fast and substantial progress.
Also...
Have you been trying to learn jazz piano with youtube videos, dvds, teachers but feel
like you're still constantly guessing, can't play any tunes without copying what someone else has played, and don't know how to connect all the tid bits you've learned?
I went through the same thing but thankfully stumbled upon a learning system I created based on
proven language learning blocks.
The JPS System brings you through 4 main categories of learning,
...2024-09-251h 06
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano Comping Voicings & TipsJazz piano comping is one of the easier things to do because it just requires knowledge of voicings and rhythms. I'm going to teach you about what voicings to use where on the piano to comp in this podcast.
Also...
Have you been trying to learn jazz piano with youtube videos, dvds, teachers but feel
like you're still constantly guessing, can't play any tunes without copying what someone else has played, and don't know how to connect all the tid bits you've learned?
I went through the same thing but thankfully stumbled upon a learning system I created based on
...2024-09-1857 min
Jazz Piano SchoolSlow Swing Jazz Piano: Do This!We are on to part 2 of my 3 part Solo piano Framework. If you missed part 1, go back and watch it when you get some time. But today, we'll be tackling slow swing.
My live programs are starting back up in September! My 3-month Accelerator program and 9-month Innercircle Mastermind.
For more info go to...
https://jazzpianoschool.com/group
Also...
Have you been trying to learn jazz piano with youtube videos, dvds, teachers but feel
like you're still constantly guessing, can't play any tunes without copying what someone else has played, and don't know how to connect all the tid bits...2024-08-271h 12
Jazz Piano SchoolLearn Solo Jazz Piano: My 3 Easy MethodsIt's time to teach you my Solo Piano Framework. This is a 3 part live stream I series that I recently did so you'll be listening to me teach live and answer questions live.
Some students said this was the BEST solo piano education they have ever received. It's 3 parts total so watch it all and take notes. Enjoy!
My live programs are starting back up in September! My 3-month Accelerator program and 9-month Innercircle Mastermind.
For more info go to...
https://jazzpianoschool.com/group
Also...
Have you been trying to learn jazz piano with youtube videos, dvds, teachers but feel
...2024-08-221h 27
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano Improvisation: The 16th Note OrnamentWhen I discovered this little rhythmic trick it was an absolute game changer for my improvisation! Let's learn it!
My live programs are starting back up in September! My 3-month Accelerator program and 9-month Innercircle Mastermind.
For more info go to...
https://jazzpianoschool.com/group
Also...
Have you been trying to learn jazz piano with youtube videos, dvds, teachers but feel
like you're still constantly guessing, can't play any tunes without copying what someone else has played, and don't know how to connect all the tid bits you've learned?
I went through the same thing but thankfully stumbled upon a...2024-08-0615 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano Scales: 3 Must Know! (Practice Bonus)We're on to part 2 of my chord scales lesson. In this lesson I'm going to teach you 3 easy chord scales you have to know to make your improvisation sound great, and you'll get to practice them with me through the tune "Take The A-Train".
Want my full Improvisation Mastery course? Go to the link below for a huge one-time discount!
https://jazzpianoschool.com/improvdiscount
Also...
Have you been trying to learn jazz piano with youtube videos, dvds, teachers but feel
like you're still constantly guessing, can't play any tunes without copying what someone else has played, and don't know how...2024-06-1900 min
Jazz Piano SchoolHow To Use Jazz Piano Chord ScalesThink you don't need chord scales? Think again. In this video I'll show you what happens if you DON'T use them.
Want my full Improvisation Mastery course? Go to the link below for a huge one-time discount!
https://jazzpianoschool.com/improvdiscount
Also...
Have you been trying to learn jazz piano with youtube videos, dvds, teachers but feel
like you're still constantly guessing, can't play any tunes without copying what someone else has played, and don't know how to connect all the tid bits you've learned?
I went through the same thing but thankfully stumbled upon a learning system I created...2024-06-0424 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano Rootless Voicings Structure 2 PracticeOn to practice Round 2! We'll be practicing structure 2 of our rootless voicings at 5 different tempos. Here we go!
Have you been trying to learn jazz piano with youtube videos, dvds, teachers but feel
like you're still constantly guessing, can't play any tunes without copying what someone else has played, and don't know how to connect all the tid bits you've learned?
I went through the same thing but thankfully stumbled upon a learning system I created based on
proven language learning blocks.
The JPS System brings you through 4 main categories of learning,
Theory, Technique, Improvisation and Repertoire.
I'll show you...2024-05-1628 min
Jazz Piano SchoolOne Fast Tip For Solo Piano Cocktail JazzI say things over and over and over again. Want to know why? Because there are things I see students do over and over and over again. And that's okay! I'm not blaming anyone, but it's exactly why I made this weeks podcast. To try to really create an impression in your head to do this ONE thing when playing cocktail solo piano ballads. Because when you do...it will instantly improve your sound by 10 fold, if not more! Here we go!
Want more amazing solo piano education? Check out the link below to learn more.
https://jazzpianoschool.com/solo-piano-system-discount-1...2024-05-0115 min
Jazz Piano SchoolThe One Solo Jazz Piano Technique You Need!There is one technique setup that you need to learn for both of your hands when playing solo jazz piano. Without it, you'll never get the sound you're after. If you practice this, you'll be 95% of the way there. Let's dive in!
Want more solo piano education?
Click the link below to get more...
https://jazzpianoschool.com/lookinside
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Have you been trying to learn jazz piano with youtube videos, dvds, teachers but feel
like you're still constantly guessing, can't play any tunes without copying what someone else has played,
and don't know how to connect all the tid bits you've...2024-04-0442 min
Jazz Piano SchoolModern Jazz Basics in 7 StepsAs with everything in life, a couple small changes can produce big results. The same holds true for creating a modern jazz piano sound. With a couple of small but mighty elements, you can begin to easily produce a modern jazz sound in your playing. But fair warning, even though each step is small, it does require a lot of practice. Let's dive in!
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Have you been trying to learn jazz piano with youtube videos, dvds, teachers but feel
like you're still constantly guessing, can't play any tunes without copying what someone else has played, and don't know how...2024-02-2144 min
Jazz Piano SchoolThe ONLY Modern Jazz Chord You'll Ever Need - Part 2There is a chord that has become ubiquitous in the modern jazz idiom. This harmony can be used in a variety of settings, and has many implications for composition and improvisation in a modern jazz style. In this podcast lesson, Sterling Cozza will show you extended applications and how to expand your use of this chord with limitless possibilities.
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Have you been trying to learn jazz piano with youtube videos, dvds, teachers but feel
like you're still constantly guessing, can't play any tunes without copying what someone else has played, and don't know how to connect all the tid...2024-02-0725 min
Jazz Piano SchoolThe ONLY Modern Jazz Chord You'll Ever NeedThere is a chord that has become ubiquitous in the modern jazz idiom. This harmony can be used in a variety of settings, and has many implications for composition and improvisation in a modern jazz style. Sterling Cozza will show you how to unlock the secrets behind this chord so you can implement it into your own playing.
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Have you been trying to learn jazz piano with youtube videos, dvds, teachers but feel
like you're still constantly guessing, can't play any tunes without copying what someone else has played, and don't know how to connect all the tid bits...2024-01-3024 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Reflections for 2023 and 2024Once a year, usually in January, I sit down and record an audio only podcast. It's theraputic for me to reflect back on the year and think about what's coming up. If you're just into learning jazz piano and don't care about my thoughts, then you'll definitely want to skip this. On the other hand, if you want to hear back about what happened in 2023 and what's coming in 2024, then check it out.
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Have you been trying to learn jazz piano with youtube videos, dvds, teachers but feel
like you're still constantly guessing, can't play any tunes without copying...2024-01-1700 min
Jazz Piano SchoolWhat to Practice For Jazz Piano: 2024 Goal Planning Part 2 & 3I gave out the planning aspect in my last podcast episode. How to organize your goals. How to rank them and prioritize them. How to make a plan, and how to revise your plan. If you haven't listened to that episode, you'll want to do that now, before listening to this. Now, I'll tell you WHAT to practice in order to reach your goals fast. The more you can focus in on the exercises I give in this lesson, the faster you'll reach your goals. I promise you. But careful, don't get distracted by other shiny objects. Stay true to...2024-01-041h 31
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano Rootless Voicings 30 Day ChallengeI told myself I wouldn't do this, but I just couldn't help it. This is a replay from the first live workshop I did for all my 30-Challenge participants. I won't be reposting anymore, but I had to repost this one. If you want to join simply go to the link below to get all the replays and assignments. Enjoy!
Also, my FREE 30 Day Challenge is now open for registration. Get 4 live zoom workshops with me completely free! I'll be covering solo piano, improvisation, accompaniment and so much more. And the best part is, I'll be assigning you small and...2023-10-311h 25
Jazz Piano School14 Ways To Practice Jazz To 10x Your Learning SpeedPracticing is NOT about being comfortable. It's about being uncomfortable. So when it comes time for you to perform, you're ready for anything. With the 14 practice strategies I'll teach you in this podcast, you'll learn any jazz piano tool or concept 10 times faster than you ever would. Try it and see for yourself.
Also, my FREE 30 Day Challenge is now open for registration. Get 4 live zoom workshops with me completely free! I'll be covering solo piano, improvisation, accompaniment and so much more. And the best part is, I'll be assigning you small and very attainable practice assignments to guide you...2023-10-1832 min
Jazz Piano SchoolEasy Jazz Piano Improvisation GuideI've filtered down my education A LOT recently due to my Accelerator and Mastermind programs that are now open for enrollment until Sept 5th, 2023.
99% of all jazz piano students want one, a combination, or all of just 3 goals.
Here they are ranked in order from easiest to hardest.
#1 - Play in a band or accompany a vocalist, or instrumentalist. (Comping)
#2 - Play solo piano jazz standards on their own without reading transcriptions of other pianists.
#3 - Learn how to improvise lines in the RH in a jazz style.
THAT'S IT!
So where do you fall? What's your goal?
This will...2023-08-291h 28
Jazz Piano SchoolEasy 5 Step Process To Play Solo Jazz Piano TunesI've filtered down my education A LOT recently due to my Accelerator and Mastermind programs that are now open for enrollment until Sept 5th, 2023.
99% of all jazz piano students want one, a combination, or all of just 3 goals.
Here they are ranked in order from easiest to hardest.
#1 - Play in a band or accompany a vocalist, or instrumentalist. (Comping)
#2 - Play solo piano jazz standards on their own without reading transcriptions of other pianists.
#3 - Learn how to improvise lines in the RH in a jazz style.
THAT'S IT!
So where do you fall? Whats your goal?
This will...2023-08-221h 08
Jazz Piano SchoolHow To Play Jazz Piano In A Band Or Accompany a VocalistI've filtered down my education A LOT recently due to my Accelerator and Mastermind programs that are now open for enrollment until Sept 5th, 2023.
99% of all jazz piano students want one, a combination, or all of just 3 goals.
Here they are ranked in order from easiest to hardest.
#1 - Play in a band or accompany a vocalist, or instrumentalist. (Comping)
#2 - Play solo piano jazz standards on their own without reading transcriptions of other pianists.
#3 - Learn how to improvise lines in the RH in a jazz style.
THAT'S IT!
So where do you fall? Whats your goal?
This will...2023-08-181h 18
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Improvisation in 11 Steps!It's one thing to be taught one part of the puzzle...but what about the whole puzzle? In this fun lesson, I'll show you my 11 step improvisation road map and start at the very beginning. I'll demonstrate step one over the tune Autumn Leaves, then continue to add on layers one at a time. You'll be able to hear the complete transformation each individual step will make to your improvisation so that you can gain a full and complete picture into how to become a jazz improvisation master!
https://jazzpianoschool.com/smallgroup
There are a limited number of spots so...2023-08-081h 01
Jazz Piano SchoolEasy Jazz Piano #9 VoicingsLearn how to easily create #9 voicings fast in this free lesson. Even a complete beginner can do it, and even if you're a more intermediate or advanced player, I'll show you how to turn them into advanced #9 voicings as well.
If you want more in depth knowledge on following an easy, step-by-step plan, to learn how to play jazz piano register for my free masterclass at the link below.
https://jazzpianoschool.com/system
In this free masterclass, I'll teach you 6 of the most important jazz piano hacks on solo piano, improvisation, and voicings that you will use for the rest...2023-04-2613 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano Practice Routine in 3 StepsMost of the time beginner and intermediate students have a hard time creating a thick and lush sound while playing solo piano. And I don't blame them. It took me FOREVER to figure this out. But with these 3 tips you'll be able to create a large orchestral sound from your solo piano playing in no time. They're easy to learn and easy to integrate.
If you want more in depth knowledge on following an easy, step-by-step plan, to learn how to play jazz piano register for my free masterclass at the link below.
https://jazzpianoschool.com/system
In this free...2023-03-291h 06
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano Voicings For Comping: The 2 BEST Pro VoicingsA fellow musician who is learning how to play jazz piano mentioned that all the voicings he uses sound to thin. I asked him what voicings he was using. He said he was using a lot of drop 2's and rootless voicings in the high register of the piano. BOOM. There is the issue. The number 1 issue in fact that students have when comping jazz on piano. Most videos, blogs, even teachers, teach about rootless voicings, or upper structure voicings that are all up high. Most students should actually begin they're comping journey down low with these 2 voicings! Enjoy!
If...2023-02-1529 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano Voicings Plan For 2023 (Part 3)Summary: In part 3 of the 2023 planning series I'll be covering a full spectrum plan to crush all the jazz piano voicings you could possibly need in 2023.
Voicings are necessary for all parts of jazz. Solo piano, improvisation, comping and so much more.
When you have a solid plan to improve your voicings you will be making progress across the board which is fantastic. This will translate to everything you do.
Don't forget to grab the planning book below as I refer to the steps inside when teaching this lesson.
https://jazzpianoschool.com/2023planningbook2023-01-051h 22
Jazz Piano SchoolSolo Piano Blueprint for Jazz Piano (2023 Planning, Part 2)We're on to part 2 of our 2023 planning sessions. In this live stream lesson, I'll be covering the full solo piano blueprint and plan you need to make serious progress in 2023.
If playing jazz solo piano is your goal, then you'll definitely want to take detailed notes on this episode.
Don't forget to go to the link below to get our free planning guide because I'm referring directly to the steps in this free guide for solo piano.
https://jazzpianoschool.com/2023planningbook2022-12-301h 06
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano Plan For 2023, Part 1Jazz Piano Plan For 2023, Part 12022-12-221h 22
Jazz Piano School3 Must Know Jazz Piano LicksThe 3 jazz piano licks included in this lesson are important for a couple reasons. One, they contain both scalar motion and arpeggiated thirds. Most jazz piano improvisation contains both of these movements very frequently. Two, they contain chromatic motion. Chromatic motion is extremely important in bebop to slide into chord tones or move around them to create tension. Third, these three licks emphasize the thirds of each chord in this two-five-one progression. By emphasizing the thirds, of chords, you will reflect the harmony of progressions and create beautiful solos.
Most importantly, in this lesson, I go further than just showing...2022-11-1518 min
Jazz Piano School5 Different Ways To Play a Jazz 3-6-2-5 On PianoProgressions in jazz can get extremely boring. Especially if you're playing them the same every time. A common one that you'll see in so many tunes is a 3-6-2-5. If you're bored of playing a 3-6-2-5 the same or need some new ideas, I got exactly what you need. In this podcast I'll show you 5 easy ways to play a 3-6-2-5 that will sound COMPLETELY different and extremely hip at the same time. Here we go!2022-11-0222 min
Jazz Piano SchoolHow To Thicken Up Jazz Voicings And Arrangements in 3 Easy StepsJazz doesn't always have to be hard. I swear. Sometimes one specific skill set can be broken down into 3 easy steps. I recently taught my special Accelerator Program students this easy 3 step process to thicken and fatten up their arrangements and they absolutely loved it! This process can be used over any tune and will serve you for the rest of your jazz piano career. It's well worth your time to learn. Enjoy!2022-10-0521 min
Jazz Piano School3 Functional Jazz Piano Skills Every Musician Should KnowWhen it comes to jazz piano, there is a myriad of techniques, voicings, and approaches which one can study. This doesn't mean that not everyone can play jazz piano! In this podcast, we've boiled it down to 3 functional techniques which you can use to play jazz piano. Follow along to find out what they are!2022-05-0412 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano Tutorial: The "Blues-a-Day Practice Challenge"The blues is a fundamental element of jazz piano. What would happen if you played a blues every day as part of your jazz piano practice routine in 2022? By playing a blues-a-day, you can challenge yourself to learn melodies, voicings, and improvise in different keys. This will expand your musicality, and make you ready for just about anything!2022-02-0924 min
Jazz Piano SchoolSolutions & System To Learning Jazz Piano (Episode 3 of 3)When I think about the things that hurt my progress the most through out my jazz piano pursuit there are 4 things that come to mind.
And I dont mean, me sitting on the couch with my hand on my chin wondering.
I mean like BAM!
These 4 things DIRECTLY come to my mind because they're so blatantly obvious now that I can see them and know of them.
In episode 2 of my new mini series I'm going to explain what these 4 things are.
They're STILL, to this day, very heavily rearing their ugly head and the more you can be aware...2021-11-1829 min
Jazz Piano SchoolThe 4 Hidden Mistakes in Jazz Piano Education (Episode 2 of 3)When I think about the things that hurt my progress the most through out my jazz piano pursuit there are 4 things that come to mind.
And I dont mean, me sitting on the couch with my hand on my chin wondering.
I mean like BAM!
These 4 things DIRECTLY come to my mind because they're so blatantly obvious now that I can see them and know of them.
In episode 2 of my new mini series I'm going to explain what these 4 things are.
They're STILL, to this day, very heavily rearing their ugly head and the more you can be aware...2021-11-1722 min
Jazz Piano SchoolThe One Thing That Almost Crushed My Jazz Piano Dream (Episode 1 of 3)I get kind of bitter when I talk about it.
I try not to but I really can't help it.
Because this ONE thing was extremely close to robbing me of my jazz piano dream.
And to this day, I feel my body tighten and clench when talking about it.
This is Episode 1, of a 3 part mini series I'm releasing that's going to take a step back.
It's going to hopefully help you rethink your own jazz piano education and journey, as I share all the downfalls, doubts, frustrations and pains I've gone through on mine.
Enjoy!2021-11-1517 min
Jazz Piano SchoolHow To Practice Jazz Piano EfficientlyPracticing jazz can feel nebulous. What do we play? What do we do? There are so many different things to practice. What exercises do we use? I'll be first one to say this, I wasted a full decade practicing jazz the WRONG way.
In this episode I'll teach you my 5 step system that will give you a practice plan to ensure you're ACTUALLY making progress everytime you sit down to practice.
Enjoy!2021-04-0954 min
Jazz Piano SchoolHow to Use Block Chords - Jazz Piano Tutorial Pt. 2 (Ep: 217)Block chords are one of jazz piano's unsolved mysteries. This style made famous by George Shearing and Nat King Cole was once ubiquitously used by jazz pianists of the 20th century who came after them. In part two of this jazz piano tutorial, we will cover two more advanced strategies to integrate this style of playing into your repertoire.2020-12-0211 min
Jazz Piano SchoolHow to Use Block Chords - Jazz Piano Tutorial Pt. 1 (Ep: 215)Block chords are one of jazz piano's unsolved mysteries. This style made famous by George Shearing and Nat King Cole was once ubiquitously used by jazz pianists of the 20th century who came after them. In this jazz piano tutorial, learn how to use this technique in your improvising, comping, and more!2020-11-0414 min
Jazz Piano School"Walking the Blues" - How to Walk Basslines and Improvise Jazz Piano (Ep:188)Have you ever wanted to play bass lines on piano and improvise at the same time? Well, with this podcast that idea could become a reality! Follow along as we explore steps to build your own bass lines and work your way toward implementing right hand improvisation over your favorite jazz tunes.2020-04-1428 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Composition: 5 Steps to Build Color Voicings (Ep:181)Jazz Composition: 5 Steps to Build Color Voicings (Ep:181)2020-02-2600 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Comping Strategies For Airegin (Ep:180)Learning jazz comping can be a complicated process. You need rhythms, voicings, movements, registers and more. Even after all that, you have to go to an actual tune and start to implement the strategies you've learned. In this episode we show you some amazing comping strategies that you can easily use to sound great over the classic tune Airegin. You're sure to love these after you hear the fantastic textures and atmospheres they produce! Enjoy!2020-02-1919 min
Jazz Piano SchoolSimple Jazz Piano: 3 Step Process (Ep:179)Playing solo jazz piano is hard. I'll admit it. Finding an EASY way to play solo jazz piano can be EVEN harder. But...thankfully I've created this very simple and clear, 3 step process to help you go about arranging tunes in a solo piano, 2 hand style that will sound beautiful and lush. And even if you're an advanced player, I'll show you how to take this easy process and tweak it to fit your advanced level. Enjoy!2020-02-1228 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJPS Ep:159 - How To Self Assess Your Skills & Use Jazz Piano Tools To Make Consistent ProgressGive a person a fish and they eat for a day...teach a person to fish and they eat for a lifetime. This is exactly my approach with all student within Jazz Piano School. Learning jazz piano for a lifetime and NOT a day is about learning jazz piano tools and improving those tools within all the different categories. From there we can start to combine them to create amazing sounding atmospheres and textures. Check out this podcast for an overall plan and approach to learning jazz piano for a lifetime!2019-07-0326 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJPS Ep:142 - 12 Ingredients For Jazz Piano SuccessIt's hard to be honest with ourselves. What do we know, and what do we NEED to know? What do we NOT know...we don't know! Confusing...I know...but hopefully these 12 CRUCIAL ingredients to jazz piano success will allow you to have a clear picture of everything you need in order to become a successful jazz pianist. I shouldn't say everything you need, but at least the most important things you need. Let's just say...without these 12 ingredients, you will not be able to reach the level you're hoping for. So with that being said...let's start learning!2019-03-0400 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJPS Ep:141 - How To Integrate Jazz Extensions Into Your VoicingsI get this question a lot, and that is... "Brenden, how do I integrate extensions into my voicings?" Well most of the time you'll here upper structure triads brought up immediately. In this episode I would like to go a step further and teach you some easy strategies you can use to extract SPECIFIC colors from your voicings by integrating the extensions of your choice! Here we go!2019-02-0615 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJPS Ep:140 - The 8th Note Exercise: The Key to Smoother Lines for Jazz PianoThis exercise is a trade secret I learned to make my improvised lines smoother. After working with this exercise, you will make it through the changes of tunes you used to find challenging with style and grace! In this podcast lesson, well be looking at the notorious jazz standard, "Cherokee" and I'll be showing you different ways to approach working on your eighth notes flows through this exercise. Let's go!2019-01-3022 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJPS Ep:135 - Learn Jazz Piano - Our 4 Step SystemLearning jazz piano isn't a guessing game, even that's how I approached it for 15+ years. It's a system. The majority of students, including myself start by learning tunes.This should be the LAST step we do. Before that we need jazz piano TOOLS. Would you try and read and write without learning the Alphabet? No of course not. Jazz Piano is the exact same way. In this 15 minute podcast I'm going to break down the 4 step system we use that is has successfully taught thousands of students jazz piano so you can use it too.2018-12-1800 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJPS Ep:130 - 8 Must Know Jazz Piano ChordsUsually we all want to learn cool, hip sounding voicings right?! Trust me, I've been there. But unfortunately these one off voicings don't do much for our education. It's like someone giving us a fish instead of TEACHING us HOW to fish. Now, I don't know about you, but I'd much rather learn HOW to fish. This episode will give you the 8 must know jazz piano chords but will also TEACH you how you can take these structures and methods and use them in all tunes. Enjoy!2018-10-1000 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep. 126 - Bill Evans Transcription Analysis on Time RememberedWell I have some very amazing news! A special friend in the California area, who played with Bobby Hutcherson for many years and has contributed so much to jazz through education, has recently helped Jazz Piano School build a brand new specialty course! This new specialty course, taught by Dr. Joe Gilman will be "The Bill Evans Arranging Style" and will be available through Jazz Piano School exclusively! To get on our list to learn more about this specialty course when we release it click the button below. You will ALSO get the transcription of the Bill Evans playing time...2018-07-3118 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep. 120 - 7 Way To Practice Bebop To See Quick ImprovementI've never known any jazz piano giant to not have the ability to play through changes in a bebop style. At the heart of all improvisation lies bop. If you think you're going to skip this step and achieve improv freedom...well, unfortunately you're lying to yourself. Needless to say this is a must! So here are 7 great tips to help you practice and excel quickly with proven and systematic steps. Enjoy!2018-04-2041 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep. 119 - How Theory & Structure Lead To FreedomI heard an amazing saying the military uses as a motto that goes like this..."Fast is slow and slow is fast." If I had to sum up jazz piano in a similar way I would say, "Theory & Structure is Freedom, and Freedom Is Theory & Structure." In this episode I show you why it's so important to learn theory concepts in a sequential manner and how it will translate into true freedom of self expression in your playing. Enjoy!2018-04-1341 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep. 118 - How To Play Any Style And Groove Over Any TunePeople will ask me, "Brenden, how do you play funk...how do you play latin?" Well when you learn the necessary foundational tools with Theory Sequences...you can play any style, any groove you want! At anytime! That is why our tagline is "Learning Freedom". In this episode I take a simple standard and play about a ten different grooves and styles through out the tune. Switching between each and every one as I explain. Enjoy!2018-04-0644 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep. 115 - How To Develop A Solid Foundation As A Beginner Without HolesSo I'm going to say it...Jazz Piano is EASY...but...only after you have a plan to follow. I found this out the hard way after basically searching and guessing for most of my career until I finally developed my own plan. In this episode I talk about the foundation and TREE based concepts that splits off your foundation based on your specific goals. There is not much playing and demonstrating here but I truly believe the concepts I explain are much more valuable in the long run. Enjoy!2018-02-2337 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep. 108 - The Structured Education Of Jazz Piano SchoolThis was a spur of the moment podcast! I actually started recording something else then got to talking about my vision and the structure of Jazz Piano School and I just went with it! But this should definitely bring a lot of information and clarity around the 3 major types of products we have and where we are moving to with jazz piano education software/website app we're currently building. Enjoy!2017-12-0126 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep. 106 - Our Lab's Two Hand Voicing Building SystemI struggled for yearsss. 15+ to be exact learning how to achieve some sort of jazz freedom on the piano. I was sick of just playing what other peopled showed me. It was like a coloring book. No matter how much freedom you had to choose colors you were still coloring other peoples pictures. I wanted to DRAW my OWN pictures! This podcast is taken directly from one of our lab upgrade formulas. The education contained in our lab, Launching in the next couple of weeks, will allow you to draw you own pictures. It was give you the tools to...2017-11-1030 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep. 100 - Keith Jarrett Analysis, "Someone To Watch Over Me"Not to take anything away from Keith on this one, but we reached PODCAST 100! Kind of crazy if you ask me? When I think about to all the hurdles, and problems we had to get through, I can't believe we've come this far. In order to celebrate we 're giving away 2 amazing gifts. #1 A LIFETIME membership to jazz piano. Yes you read that correctly. And #2 - A free reserved membership to our new "Lab" this is coming by the end of the year. Now in order to enter all you have to do is give the podcast a 5 start rating...2017-09-2934 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep. 99 - Seven Steps To Heaven - Herbie Hancock Solo AnalysisHerbie has always been a god in the jazz piano world. In this iconic track, Seven Steps To Heaven, we take a look at how Herbie is burnin' it up all over the place. He's got some beginner movements mixed with some advanced concepts. Anyone can learn from taking a look at this one. Enjoy!2017-09-2237 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep. 97 - Freddie Freeloader, Wynton Kelly Transcription AnalysisIt's the small nuances and attention to detail that will take your playing to the next level. What sound are you trying to create? How do you get it? After you've learned the building blocks of jazz improvisation, these transcription analysis will help put you on top.2017-09-0900 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep. 96 - 8 Different Ways To Add Rhythmic Variety To Improve Your ImprovisationMost of the time I hear beginner and intermediate players stop at using quarter notes and eighth notes. This greatly hurts the sound of your improvisation. Remember, jazz was and is a dance music! Rhythm is like the oxygen to jazz. Without it, your solo is going to die. Here's how to start adding rhythmic variety to your improv.2017-08-1927 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep. 95 - What Happens In Your Playing As You AdvanceA lot of the time when trying to get better at jazz piano, you simply have no idea what the future looks like...or even what the heck advanced players are doing! It sounds too far out of reach. Well I'm here to tell you it's not. In this episode I show you what is going to happen as you advance through the levels. This way you'll be able to see exactly what takes place.2017-08-1128 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep. 94 - How To Use Jazz Piano Modes ExplainedI still get asked all the time, "How do I use modes to improvise and why are they important?" I'm confident this episode will remove this questions and finally allow you to understand how and why modes are important to your jazz improvisation. Enjoy!2017-08-0422 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep. 89 - Adding Extensions With Upper Structure TriadsIf you're new to adding extensions into your voicings learning these upper structure triads is a great way to get you started. With these you'll start to create some amazing sounding jazz voicings with ease! Enjoy!2017-06-1619 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep. 65 - Basics of The Sus ChordThe Sus chord is a very, very important chord in jazz. It can be used for many purposes and can advance your playing drastically! In this episode I go over what a sus chord is and show you how it can be used effectively in different situations. Enjoy!2016-12-0929 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep. 60 - Rootless Voicing ExpansionRootless voicing are a great building block to start learning true jazz sounds but how do we expand upon them? In this episode I show you how to take rootless voicing further by altering the natural extensions they contain.2016-11-0427 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep. 56 - The Basics Of Stride PianoStride is an extremely fun style of jazz piano to play! Simple to explain, but technically difficult. Learn how to tackle this fun and impressive beast with these podcast tips! Have fun!2016-10-0734 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep 44: How To Accompany A SingerThis is a topic within jazz piano education that I get asked about A LOT! For good reason too. Fortunately, most of the work I get actually come with playing with singers. I've excelled at this through out my career from playing in a church for a long time. In church, I've had to accompany singers in all sorts of styles, genres and situations. Let me tell you, the path is not easy. I'm confident these basics will get you started on the right path. Enjoy!2015-07-1438 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep 43: Getting Back At It!Well guess what? I fell off again! But who doesn't right? The good thing is you simply pick yourself back up and keep going at it from where ever you last left off. This goes for anything in life. Never give up! Especially jazz piano. If you stop practicing for 1 week, 2 months or even a year, just accept it and start again from where you left off. The hardest part is to start up again, take it from me! Haha In this episode I share some random thoughts that have been on my mind and share a teaser for the...2015-07-0726 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep 42: Beginner Course & 2015 ThoughtsSo excited to be back podcasting! I had so many problems with the podcast on iTunes. A couple episodes were not showing up. Then I had to take the podcast off and it was a mess! Anyway I'm back. I've launched the Jazz Piano School Beginner Course! So excited for this. Already have a lot of signups. In this podcast I go over my thoughts on the new Jazz Piano School Beginner Course. Why it's different than other online jazz piano courses. I also talk about my thoughts for JPS in 2015 and how it can help you!2015-01-2632 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep 41 : Improvising Rhythmic MotifsBy do some solo's sound boring and some sound awesome? Rhythms. Rhythms in jazz are the feel good mojo that spices up your solo. They are at the heart of our soul. In order to make our solos pop and have the feel good feeling to them we need to add rhythms to our solo that have contrast. If we are playing all eighth notes and quarter notes on downbeats, our solo's will sound bland and dry. In this episode I give you many different ways to practice your rhythms in order to spice up your solo.2014-10-1536 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep 40 : The Altered ScaleWhen you're first learning jazz it's hard to get that jazz sound that gives tensions and sounds like we're not playing like a baby. It might sound to you like you're playing is sooo beginnerish still. Well here's how to change it. By learning the altered scale we will immediately give our playing lots of tension and color by using the extensions in this scale. Enjoy!2014-10-1500 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep 39 : The Tritone SubstitutionWe as jazz musicians have a lot of freedom to change progressions and harmonies in a tune. How exactly do we do it though? In this podcast I'll teach you a foundational concept that will lead to many more reharm opportunities while soloing, comping, and playing solo piano. Enjoy!2014-10-1415 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep 38 : How To Develop Your SolosAs I've said before jazz is like speaking a language. We know that person in our life that won't stop talking. They just talk and talk and talk. It's never fun to listen to them. The people who take their time and say something meaningful are the ones to listen to. We want to be those people on the piano. It's extremely easy for us as pianists to play and play and play because we have a percussive instrument. We can just bang away on the piano and not reazlie we're not leaving space. In this podcast I'll teach you...2014-10-1421 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep 36 : What Are Extensions?Most people gravitate towards jazz because of the rich colors and sounds that come from the music. We all want to be able to play those amazing sounding chords on the piano. How do we do it though? I'll tell you right now. Extensions. Extensions are the colors that allow you to spice up your playing and start to paint the music however you'd like. Extensions are the beginning of the road to freedom in music. Just as a painter paints with his colors, a jazz musician paints with extensions. Let's get into it!2014-09-0920 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep 35: Walk Bass Lines Part 1Learning how to walk bass lines is a skill all jazz pianists want to accomplish. And who wouldn't? We have a nice bass register on the piano but we never learn how to do anything with it. Anytime we see an bass player walking all over a tune like he owns we just stare in awe. In this episode I'm going to get you started on the right path to walking bass lines that will impress a bass player! Let's do it!2014-09-0712 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep 34 : Rootless Voicing TexturesWe recently learned our rootless voicings. In this episode I'm going to show you how to turn these rootless voicings into two hand comping textures to use with groups or while playing solo piano. These sounds are the heart of jazz comping. Anyone who uses these will be creating jazz sounds used through out the years. We're finally getting to the good stuff of jazz piano voicings and comping.2014-09-0700 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep 33 : Beginning Ear TrainingEar training is highly sought after in jazz because much of the music involves using our ear to hear progressions, licks, movements and much more. The better ear you have, the better player you will be. So how exactly do we go about improving our ear and helping it to hear movements and notes better. In this podcast that's exactly what I will tell you.2014-09-0500 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep 31 : Rootless Voicings Part 1Alright, you've waited long enough for some pro jazz voicings! Well here they are. Rootless voicings will be your key to advanced jazz voicings with both one and two hands in the future. These are your transport system to playing amazing sounding jazz chords. Study these hards because they will only help open more doors to come. There are two different structure and in this episode I will be going over structure 1.2014-08-2724 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School Ep 28 : Why You Need Diatonic HarmonyWe have to be able to understand how to put the puzzle pieces together in jazz. How can you expect to do this without understanding where they go? Well, you can't! This is why Diatonic Harmony is so important. Diatonic Harmony is the road map to explain how chords and progressions fit together. Without learning this you will be completely lost as we continue to progress. Diatonic Harmony is the relationship of chords to a scale and certain key. Pretty easy once you get into it! Leave your questions in the comments section and I'll be happy to help.2014-08-1118 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School, Ep 26: Beginner Improv Part 2, Connecting Chord TonesJazz information has always gone about jazz piano improvisation as if it is some trip to outer space. Well you have to explore yourself in order to find out how to improvise. I couldn't disagree more. Jazz improvisation in the beginning is definitely a step by step process. In this episode we move on to step number 2, connecting the chord tones with notes from the major scale.2014-07-2225 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School, Ep 24: How To Start Improvising (Beginner)When learning how to improvise you want to make sure you have the necessary foundation to support your solo. These initial steps will make sure you get started on the right path to playing killin jazz piano solos and sounding your best.2014-07-0936 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School, Ep 23: Arranging Standards For Solo PianoLearning how to arrange jazz standards for both hands can be tough. Where do I put my left hand? Where do I put my right? There are specific techniques you can use to help arrange the standards in fake books so that you sound great every time. In this episode I teach you two systematic techniques that will build you a solid foundation for more lessons to come. Enjoy!2014-07-0136 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School, Ep 21: Special Guest, Eric ReedThis interview with Eric Reed was such a great pleasure. To be able to talk to one of the leading jazz pianists in the world and history was surreal for me. I had studied with him at the New School University and Eric was kind of enough to come on the show for an interview. He makes such intelligent points about the music and is able to articulate his thoughts with great clarity. Do not miss this episode and listen all the way through. Some of the best info is at the end! Enjoy!2014-06-051h 15
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School, Ep 19: Introduction To The BluesThe blues is a corner stone of jazz. You will find the blues in many traditional jazz tunes and it will also help improve your improvising as well. Listen to this episode to learn how the blues works and how you can start playing it! Enjoy!2014-05-2700 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School, Ep 17: How To Play Jazz Standards!Playing jazz piano standards is actually quite easy. People tend to over think it and then end up not even trying. It only takes a couple of learned principles and you can play any jazz standard you want! Enjoy!2014-05-2000 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School, Ep 16: How To Swing!Swing creates that wonderful jazz feeling we all know and love. Here's how to create it and get it right! Enjoy!2014-05-1500 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School, Ep 15 - What Are 7th Chords?Finally some jazz chords to start learning! 7th chords are the main type of harmony that create jazz. Any time you are listening to jazz you can be sure you are hearing some form of 7th chords. These chords are going to be the building blocks to learning all sorts of jazz standards! Practice them hard!2014-04-2220 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School, Ep 12: Avishai Cohen Masterclass Part 2Avishai Cohen gives another masterclass at the reno jazz festival. He doesn't repeat anything he said in the first class, so pay attention. He has a lot of valuable insight to learn jazz. Enjoy!2014-04-1500 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School, Ep 11: Avishai Cohen Masterclass Part 1Avishai Cohen is a leading trumpet player in the jazz scene. This masterclass was recorded at the Reno Jazz Festival. He has a lot of great insight into advancing as a student, and what to practice. Enjoy!2014-04-1500 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School, Ep 10: Determination | Motivation | WillpowerIt can be hard to achieve goals in life. No matter what you are attempting to accomplish. There are certain things you need to know in order to keep going. That certain this is the "Why" for why you want to accomplish your goal. As long as you know that you can do anything, like play jazz piano! This podcast will help you gain confidence and believe you can connect with this music in ways you never dreamed of.2014-04-1000 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School, Ep 9: Voiceleading Triad InversionsVoiceleading triad inversions will skyrocket your playing in seconds. Once you learn how to implement this technique into your playing you will be able to play any pop / rock / triad type of chart, yes any. Work hard at this method because as I always say, these beginning steps will be a gateway into more complicated jazz voicings to come. And they are coming very soon!2014-04-0900 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School, Ep 7: Major & Minor TriadsWhy are major and minor triads useful? They are the stepping stones to all complicated and beautiful jazz voicings. If you know your major and minor triads well you will be able to progress to more advanced voicings with ease. Listen to this podcast to learn how to find your major and minor triads and how they relate to pop tunes.2014-04-0600 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School, Ep 6: Jazz Insight With Dr. Samuel GriffithMy good friend and also Dr. Samuel Griffith shares his insight about jazz. He has traveled and played in many different cities with many different artists. When it comes to jazz pedagogy and playing he is the man to talk to. I was learning so much even as I was interviewing him. I strongly suggest you get a pen and paper to take notes because this interview is filled with nuggets you can use in your playing! Enjoy!2014-04-0500 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School, Ep 3: Eric Harland MasterclassEric Harland gives a masterclass at Next Gen Jazz Festival in Monterey, 2014. He offers some great insight and knowledge! Enjoy!2014-04-0151 min
Jazz Piano SchoolJazz Piano School, Ep 1: Introductions | Vision | OverviewAfter a months of nit picking details on the website, I've finally moved into launching the podcast. This will a completely new education facet into learning jazz not to mention extremely accessible. I have always listened to podcast while driving to teach, and I thought it would be great if there was a jazz piano podcast. I have a lot in mind for the podcast, including live interviews and demonstrations with my previous teachers, live rehearsal and gig recordings, tips on all topics and much more. If there is anything you would like to specifically hear or have questions, please...2014-03-2700 min