Jazz Piano Private Lesson

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Jazz piano is a course designed for pianists looking to develop their skills in playing and improvising in the jazz style. The course will cover essential jazz concepts such as swing, phrasing, and groove, as well as the stylistic differences between various jazz subgenres such as bebop, hard bop, and Latin jazz.

Students will learn about the role of the piano in a jazz ensemble and how to comp (accompany) effectively for soloists. The course will also cover the use of voicings, chord substitutions, and reharmonization techniques to add depth and complexity to a performance. In addition, students will have the opportunity to work on their improvisation skills, learning how to create solos over standard jazz progressions using scales, arpeggios, and various melodic and rhythmic devices.

Throughout the course, students will have the opportunity to practice their skills through the analysis and performance of jazz standards, as well as the creation of their own original compositions. By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in jazz piano technique and be able to confidently perform and improvise in a variety of jazz settings.

Key Features

1. Improvisation: Jazz pianists often improvise their solos, meaning that they spontaneously create melodies and harmonies on the spot, rather than playing a predetermined piece of music. Classical pianists, on the other hand, generally perform works that have been composed and written down.
2. Harmony: Jazz harmony tends to be more complex and chromatic (using a wider range of pitches) than classical harmony. Jazz pianists often use extended chords and substitute chords to create a more modern, sophisticated sound.
3. Rhythm: Jazz rhythms are typically more syncopated (using accents on offbeats) and swung (played with a slightly elongated feel) than classical rhythms, which are usually more straightforward and even.
4. Performance style: Jazz pianists often perform in a more expressive and interactive style, with a greater emphasis on personal interpretation and communication with other musicians. Classical pianists, on the other hand, tend to follow the composer’s instructions more closely and strive for a more polished, refined sound.