
Jazz Piano Skills
Education Podcasts
A podcast introducing aspiring Jazz Pianists to essential Jazz Piano Skills. Professional Jazz Piano Lessons by Dr. Bob Lawrence, President The Dallas School of Music
Location:
United States
Genres:
Education Podcasts
Description:
A podcast introducing aspiring Jazz Pianists to essential Jazz Piano Skills. Professional Jazz Piano Lessons by Dr. Bob Lawrence, President The Dallas School of Music
Twitter:
@JazzPianoSkills
Language:
English
Contact:
9723808050
Website:
http://www.jazzpianoskills.com/
Episodes
Tangerine, Melodic Analysis
10/14/2025
Podcast Packets
Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Forums
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
Jazz Piano, Melodic Analysis, Music Education, Jazz Standards, Practice Strategies, Improvisation, Music Theory, Jazz Techniques, Learning Jazz, Piano Skills
Takeaways
Establish a well-structured practice strategy for success.
Understanding the seven facts of music is crucial.
Listening to jazz is essential for developing musicality.
Transcribing melodies by ear enhances learning.
Melodic interpretation allows for personal expression.
Practice phrases and target notes for better melody execution.
Utilize various voicings to enrich melodic playing.
Experiment with different tempos and styles.
Engage with the jazz community for support and feedback.
Continuous learning and exploration are key to mastering jazz.
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence delves into the importance of melodic analysis in jazz piano. He emphasizes the necessity of understanding the seven facts of music, establishing a solid practice strategy, and the role of listening in developing musicality. The discussion includes a detailed exploration of the tune 'Tangerine,' focusing on melodic interpretation, voicings, and various styles and tempos. The episode concludes with encouragement for continuous learning and engagement with the jazz community.
Titles
Unlocking Jazz Piano Skills: A Melodic Journey
Mastering Melodies: The Art of Jazz Interpretation
Sound bites
"The answer is one word: Listen."
"Listening is so important."
"Enjoy the sounds of jazz. Enjoy the tune."
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Duration:00:28:38
Tangerine, Harmonic Analysis
10/7/2025
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Play Alongs
Forums
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
jazz piano, music education, harmony, melody, improvisation, chord voicing, jazz standards, Tangerine, music theory, piano skills
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence introduces the essential skills needed for jazz piano, emphasizing a structured approach to learning tunes. The discussion covers the importance of harmony, melody, and improvisation, framed within the seven facts of music. The episode focuses on the classic jazz standard 'Tangerine,' exploring its harmonic analysis, unique chord changes, and voicing techniques. Listeners are encouraged to practice harmonic motion patterns to develop muscle memory and improve their playing. The episode concludes with an invitation to join the Jazz Piano Skills community for further learning and support.
Takeaways
Skill-centric is the key to learning jazz piano.
Tunes illuminate our weaknesses in playing.
Understanding music requires articulating its fundamental concepts.
The seven facts of music provide a framework for learning.
Circle motion is the most common harmonic movement in jazz.
Only two notes move in a circle motion progression.
Tangerine follows an A, B, A, C form structure.
Practice harmonic motion patterns to develop muscle memory.
Hearing tonic is essential for understanding harmonic movement.
Block voicings are effective for supporting melody and improvisation.
Titles
Unlocking Jazz Piano Skills: A Comprehensive Guide
Mastering Harmony, Melody, and Improvisation
Sound bites
"Skill-centric is the key."
"Tunes illuminate our weaknesses."
"Tangerine has an A, B, A, C form."
Support the show
Duration:00:34:11
Jazz Piano: Common Questions Answered
9/30/2025
Keywords
Jazz Piano, improvisation, harmony, chords, voicings, practice, learning, techniques, repertoire, jazz standards
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence explores common questions related to jazz piano, covering a wide range of topics from fundamental techniques to improvisation, harmony, and repertoire. The discussion is structured around seven categories of questions, providing insights and practical advice for jazz pianists at all levels. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding musical concepts, practicing effectively, and the value of both listening and playing in the learning process.
Takeaways
The importance of engaging your ears while practicing scales.
Using backing tracks can help develop your internal sense of time.
Memorization is less effective than understanding harmonic function.
Improvisation should start with chord tones, not scales.
Inversions are crucial for smooth chord transitions.
Shell voicings are essential for jazz pianists.
Transcribing melodies is more beneficial than memorizing solos.
Practice should be structured with clear objectives.
Recording your practice sessions helps track improvement.
Listening is as important as practicing in jazz education.
Titles
Jazz Piano Skills: Common Questions Answered
Unlocking Jazz Piano: Insights and Techniques
Sound bites
"One tune is all that you need."
"Record yourself. Make it a habit."
"You need to do both."
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Duration:01:02:29
Improvisation, The Mastery of Harmony
9/23/2025
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Illustrations
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Play Alongs
Forums
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
Jazz Piano, Improvisation, Harmony, Music Education, Jazz Skills, Melodic Ideas, Music Theory, Piano Practice, Jazz Standards, Music Mastery
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence explores the intricacies of jazz improvisation and harmony. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the seven facts of music, defining improvisation, and the core elements that contribute to effective improvisation. The episode provides a structured approach to practicing improvisation, focusing on harmonic structures and melodic ideas, and highlights the significance of connecting different harmonic zones. Listeners are encouraged to embrace creativity within limitations and to enjoy the journey of discovering, learning, and playing jazz piano.
Takeaways
Improvisation is the art of creating melodies spontaneously.
Understanding the seven facts of music is crucial for jazz musicians.
Your hands and ears can never go where they've never been before.
Improvisation is not an abstract concept; it's a skill that can be practiced.
Creativity thrives within limitations.
The chords provide the framework for improvisation.
Practice connecting harmonic zones to enhance improvisation skills.
Focus on mastering one harmonic shape before expanding to others.
Recording your improvisation can help track progress and identify areas for improvement.
Enjoy the process of learning and playing jazz piano.
Titles
Mastering Jazz Piano Improvisation
The Art of Jazz Improvisation
Sound bites
"How do I practice improvisation?"
"Creativity is a product of limitation."
"Enjoy improvisation and have fun!"
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Duration:00:23:48
Blue Bossa, Improvisation
9/16/2025
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Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Forums
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
Jazz Piano, Improvisation, Harmonic Analysis, Melodic Analysis, Music Education, Jazz Skills, Blue Bossa, Music Practice, Jazz Learning, Music Theory
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence guides listeners through the essential components of jazz piano improvisation, focusing on the tune 'Blue Bossa.' The conversation covers harmonic and melodic analysis, the importance of a structured practice plan, and the ten signs of trouble in learning jazz. Dr. Lawrence emphasizes the significance of improvisation development, the seven musical facts, and the necessity of making music beyond just playing tunes. The episode concludes with practical techniques for improvisation using harmonic shapes, encouraging listeners to explore their creativity within structured constraints.
Takeaways
Improvisation skills are essential for jazz musicians.
Understanding harmonic and melodic analysis is crucial.
The seven musical facts guide our musical thought process.
A structured practice plan prevents feelings of overwhelm.
Neglecting foundational skills leads to frustration.
Making music involves more than just playing songs.
Active listening is key to learning jazz tunes.
Creativity thrives within self-imposed constraints.
Recording oneself is vital for growth and assessment.
Jazz learning is a journey that requires patience and planning.
Titles
Unlocking Jazz Piano Skills: A Comprehensive Guide
Mastering Improvisation: The Key to Jazz Piano
Sound bites
"A plan must be in place."
"Your musical growth is inevitable."
"Melody flows from harmony."
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Duration:00:35:10
Blue Bossa, Melodic Analysis
9/9/2025
Podcast Packets
Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Forums
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
Jazz Piano, Melodic Analysis, Blue Bossa, Jazz Education, Practice Strategy, Improvisation, Music Theory, Jazz Skills, Learning Jazz, Piano Techniques
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence delves into the importance of melodic analysis in jazz piano, focusing on the standard 'Blue Bossa.' He discusses the foundational skills necessary for effective practice strategies, the seven facts of music, and common pitfalls that jazz learners should avoid. The episode culminates in a detailed melodic analysis of 'Blue Bossa,' exploring various treatments and interpretations of the piece.
Takeaways
Melodic analysis is crucial for understanding jazz standards.
A proper conceptual understanding of music is essential for effective practice.
Many jazz learners fall into the trap of information gathering without a plan.
Practice sessions should be focused and not overly long.
Playing songs alone is not enough to improve jazz skills.
The seven facts of music are foundational to jazz learning.
Understanding target notes in melodies enhances performance.
Different treatments of a tune can lead to greater improvisational skills.
Membership in Jazz Piano Skills offers valuable resources and support.
Consistent practice and a structured approach lead to success in jazz piano.
Titles
Mastering Melodic Analysis in Jazz Piano
The Seven Facts of Music Explained
Sound bites
"Music and skills shake hands; they are partners."
"People don't plan to fail, they fail to plan."
"Neglecting the grunt work leads to frustration."
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Duration:00:32:14
Blue Bossa, Harmonic Analysis
9/2/2025
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Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Forums
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
Jazz Piano, Blue Bossa, Jazz Skills, Music Education, Piano Techniques, Improvisation, Harmony, Melody, Jazz Standards, Music Theory
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence celebrates the 300th episode and emphasizes the importance of skill-centric learning in jazz piano. He introduces the new tune study of 'Blue Bossa' and discusses the essential skills needed to play jazz, organized into three camps: harmony, melody, and improvisation. The episode also covers the seven facts of music, the benefits of membership in the Jazz Piano Skills community, and answers a listener's question about embellishing melodies. The episode concludes with a harmonic analysis of 'Blue Bossa' and a reminder to enjoy the process of learning jazz piano.
Takeaways
Celebrating the 300th episode of Jazz Piano Skills.
Skill-centric learning is essential for mastering jazz piano.
Understanding the seven facts of music is crucial for practice.
Each month, a new tune is studied to enhance skills.
The three camps of jazz skills are harmony, melody, and improvisation.
Embellishing melodies is a foundational aspect of improvisation.
Practicing fragments of a tune can lead to faster results.
Making music should be the goal, not just practicing techniques.
'Blue Bossa' is a simple yet beautiful jazz standard to learn.
Engagement in the Jazz Piano Skills community enhances learning.
Titles
Celebrating 300 Episodes of Jazz Piano Skills
The Key to Skill-Centric Learning in Jazz
Sound bites
"We're just getting started!"
"Skill-centric is the key."
"Music is the production of sound and silence."
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Duration:00:28:45
Celebrating 300 Episodes!
8/26/2025
Keywords
Jazz Piano, Music Education, Teaching, Learning, Jazz Skills, Piano Skills, Music Journey, Jazz Episodes, Music Theory, Jazz Improvisation
Summary
In this celebratory 300th episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence reflects on his musical journey, the importance of effective teaching and learning, and highlights favorite episodes from listeners. He emphasizes the significance of focusing on music rather than self, and provides guidance for new listeners on navigating the extensive library of episodes. Dr. Bob expresses gratitude for the community built around Jazz Piano Skills and looks forward to future episodes.
Takeaways
Dr. Bob celebrates the 300th episode of Jazz Piano Skills.
He shares his personal musical journey and experiences.
The importance of good teaching and learning is emphasized.
Listeners' favorite episodes are highlighted and discussed.
Dr. Bob encourages focusing on music rather than self in learning.
He provides guidance for new listeners on where to start.
The significance of the blues in jazz is acknowledged.
Dr. Bob expresses gratitude for the supportive community.
He reflects on the evolution of his teaching approach over the years.
Future aspirations include reaching 1000 episodes.
Titles
Celebrating 300 Episodes of Jazz Piano Skills
Dr. Bob's Musical Journey and Insights
Sound bites
"I want to begin today just sharing with you my thoughts."
"There is such a thing as good teaching and bad teaching."
"The blues are so important to jazz."
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Duration:00:57:01
That's All, Improvisation
8/19/2025
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Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Forums
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
jazz piano, improvisation, music theory, jazz skills, piano techniques, chord tones, rhythmic vocabulary, music education, jazz community, practice tips
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence delves into the intricacies of jazz improvisation, focusing on the tune 'That's All.' The discussion covers essential skills such as harmonic and melodic analysis, the importance of rhythmic vocabulary, and practical tips for developing improvisation skills. Dr. Lawrence addresses common challenges faced by students and emphasizes the significance of repetition and grace notes in creating a more human-like sound on the piano. The episode concludes with recommendations for practice and engagement within the jazz piano community.
Takeaways
Improvisation skills are developed through a structured approach.
Understanding harmonic and melodic analysis is crucial for improvisation.
Membership in Jazz Piano Skills offers valuable educational resources.
Improvisation challenges are common and can be overcome with practice.
Rhythmic vocabulary is essential for effective improvisation.
Grace notes add a human-like quality to piano playing.
Repetition in improvisation is a sign of creativity, not a lack thereof.
Diatonic movement is key to effective soloing.
Practice should involve breaking down tunes into manageable sections.
Engagement with the jazz community enhances learning and growth.
Titles
Mastering Jazz Improvisation: A Deep Dive
Unlocking Your Jazz Piano Potential
Sound bites
"I cannot improvise. I find it very difficult."
"It's not you. It's not a you thing at all."
"Learn chords. 60 of them."
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Duration:00:27:16
That's All, Melodic Analysis
8/12/2025
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Forums
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
Jazz Piano, Melodic Analysis, Practice Strategy, Jazz Standards, Improvisation, Music Education, Jazz Skills, Ear Training, Chord Progressions, Music Theory
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence discusses the importance of melodic analysis in jazz piano, emphasizing the need for a structured practice strategy. He introduces the seven facts of music, which serve as a foundation for understanding harmony and melody. The episode also addresses a listener's question about mastering block chords and provides insights into effective practice techniques. Finally, the session culminates in a melodic analysis of the jazz standard 'That's All', exploring fingerings, phrases, and target notes, while encouraging experimentation with different musical treatments.
Takeaways
Establish a well-thought-out practice strategy for success.
The seven facts of music are essential for understanding jazz.
Practice chords by family, type, key, and progression.
Identify target notes to aid in memorizing melodies.
Transcribe melodies by ear to develop listening skills.
Experiment with various grooves and tempos for improvisation.
Consistency in practice leads to musical growth.
Utilize lead sheets to enhance learning and performance.
Engage with the jazz community for support and feedback.
Enjoy the journey of learning and making music.
Titles
Mastering Melodic Analysis in Jazz Piano
The Seven Facts of Music Explained
Sound bites
"Success will surely follow."
"Enjoy the journey of learning music."
"Transcribe the melody by ear."
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Duration:00:33:06
That's All, Harmonic Analysis
8/5/2025
Podcast Packets
Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
jazz piano, music education, jazz skills, harmonic analysis, improvisation, music theory, jazz standards, piano voicings, learning jazz, music practice
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence introduces the essential skills needed to play jazz piano, emphasizing a structured approach to learning new tunes. The discussion covers the seven facts of music, the importance of harmonic analysis, and common progressions found in jazz standards. The episode also addresses a listener's question about navigating chord changes in lead sheets and provides insights into effective practice strategies. Finally, Dr. Lawrence explores the voicings for the classic jazz standard 'That's All', offering practical tips for mastering the tune.
Takeaways
Skill-centric approach is key to learning tunes.
Tunes illuminate our weaknesses quickly.
Three categories govern our tune study: harmony, melody, improvisation.
Understanding the seven facts of music is crucial.
Practice common progressions in all keys.
Listening to various artists enhances learning.
Harmonic analysis is essential for understanding tunes.
Common harmonic movements aid in ear training.
Voicings should match your current skill level.
Enjoy the process of discovering and learning jazz.
Titles
Mastering Jazz Piano Skills
The Essential Skills for Jazz Piano
Sound bites
"Essential skills needed to play a tune."
"Your problem is an easy fix."
"I approach it the same way every time."
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Duration:00:27:29
Congrats, You're Improvising!
7/29/2025
Podcast Packets
Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
jazz piano, improvisation, arpeggios, melodic vocabulary, jazz education, music theory, jazz standards, musical patterns, jazz skills, music practice
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence explores the essence of improvisation in jazz piano. He emphasizes the importance of understanding harmony and melody, and how to create melodic vocabulary through the use of arpeggios and patterns. The episode includes practical applications of these concepts, focusing on improvisation techniques over major chords and the significance of practicing melodic motifs. Dr. Lawrence encourages listeners to embrace the learning process and develop their improvisational skills through experimentation and practice.
Takeaways
Improvisation is about creating melodic lines to fit a song's chord progression.
A multi-dimensional understanding of harmony is crucial for jazz musicians.
Patterns and motifs should be practiced to develop improvisational vocabulary.
Jazz is a language that requires preparation and practice, not spontaneity.
Melody flows from harmony, and understanding this is key to improvisation.
Improvisation can be simplified by using control and experimental patterns.
The importance of fingerings and hand movement in improvisation cannot be overlooked.
Listening for and playing to count one of every measure is essential in jazz. Experimenting with different motifs can lead to unexpected musical discoveries.
The journey of learning jazz piano is about discovery, learning, and having fun.
Sound bites
"Congrats! You're improvising!"
"Melody flows from harmony."
"We're learning how to improvise!"
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Duration:00:27:07
Inverted Major Arpeggios
7/22/2025
Podcast Packets
Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
Jazz Piano, Inverted Arpeggios, Improvisation, Music Education, Jazz Skills, Harmony, Melody, Music Practice, George Gershwin, Lady Be Good
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence explores the concept of inverted arpeggios, emphasizing their importance in jazz improvisation. The discussion begins with a review of the previous study on the jazz standard 'Lady Be Good' and transitions into a deeper understanding of arpeggios, highlighting the common pitfalls of a one-dimensional approach to learning scales and arpeggios. Dr. Lawrence outlines the benefits of membership in Jazz Piano Skills, which provides access to premium content and educational resources. The episode includes practical demonstrations of constructing and applying inverted arpeggios across all major chords, showcasing their role in expanding a musician's vocabulary and improvisational skills. The conversation concludes with insights on effective practice techniques and the significance of experiencing musical patterns rather than merely memorizing them.
Takeaways
Inverted arpeggios are crucial for jazz improvisation.
A one-dimensional approach to scales is limiting.
Membership offers valuable educational resources.
Harmony and melody are interconnected.
Practicing arpeggios enhances musical vocabulary.
Understanding melodic blocks aids in improvisation.
Repetition is key to mastering musical motifs.
Experience is more important than memorization.
Patterns serve as springboards for creativity.
Engaging with music in various ways enriches learning.
Titles
Unlocking Jazz Piano Skills: Inverted Arpeggios Explained
The Art of Improvisation: Mastering Inverted Arpeggios
Sound bites
"Today is going to be a challenging but fun day."
"Melody is the liquid form of harmony."
"We are now multi-dimensional."
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Duration:00:22:10
Lady Be Good, Improvisation
7/15/2025
Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
Jazz Piano, Improvisation, Arpeggios, Music Theory, Practice Techniques, Jazz Skills, Lady Be Good, Music Education, Piano Lessons, Jazz Community
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence delves into the intricacies of jazz piano improvisation, focusing on the tune 'Lady Be Good.' The discussion covers essential concepts such as the seven facts of music, effective practice techniques, and the importance of sound in jazz. Dr. Lawrence emphasizes the use of inverted arpeggios to create melodic motifs, providing practical examples and etudes to enhance improvisational skills. The episode serves as a comprehensive guide for jazz piano students at all levels, encouraging a structured approach to practice and exploration of jazz music.
Takeaways
Improvisation skills are developed through structured practice.
Understanding the seven facts of music is crucial for jazz musicians.
Boredom during practice indicates a need for broader skill exploration.
Sound should be the starting point for any practice session.
Each practice session should have a single objective.
Inverted arpeggios can create interesting melodic motifs.
Listening to various renditions of a tune is essential for learning.
Jazz practice should be systematic and formulaic.
Creating melodic motifs from arpeggios enhances improvisation.
Membership in a jazz community provides valuable resources and support.
Titles
Mastering Jazz Piano: The Art of Improvisation
Unlocking Jazz Piano Skills: A Deep Dive
Sound bites
"How do you practice jazz?"
"Boredom is a huge red flag."
"Everything flows from harmony."
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Duration:00:30:40
Lady Be Good, Melodic Analysis
7/8/2025
Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
Jazz Piano, Melodic Analysis, Practice Plan, Seven Facts of Music, Lady Be Good, Jazz Education, Improvisation, Music Theory, Jazz Skills, Music Practice
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence delves into the melodic analysis of the classic jazz standard 'Lady Be Good.' The discussion emphasizes the importance of a structured practice plan, the seven facts of music, and the essential skills needed for jazz musicians. The episode also addresses a listener's question about the order of learning jazz and provides insights into transcribing melodies and exploring different treatments of the tune. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the community and utilize the resources available to enhance their jazz piano skills.
Takeaways
Melodic analysis follows harmonic analysis in jazz education.
A structured practice plan is crucial for progress.
The seven facts of music serve as a compass for learning.
Sound awareness is essential for effective practice.
Transcribing melodies by ear is a key skill.
Different treatments of a tune can enhance understanding.
Engagement in a community fosters learning and support.
Foundational skills must be prioritized in learning jazz.
Jazz education requires both conceptual and physical mastery.
Enjoyment in learning is vital for musical growth.
Titles
Unlocking Jazz Piano Skills: A Melodic Journey
Mastering Melodies: The Art of Jazz Piano
Sound bites
"The seven facts of music are essential."
"Play the five primary sounds of music."
"Transcribe the melody by ear."
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Duration:00:35:05
Lady Be Good, Harmonic Analysis
7/1/2025
Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
jazz piano, essential skills, improvisation, harmony, melody, rhythm, Lady Be Good, George Gershwin, music education, jazz standards
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence introduces the essential skills needed for jazz piano, emphasizing the importance of harmony, melody, improvisation, and rhythm. He discusses the seven facts of music that frame these skills and addresses a listener's question about improvisation challenges, particularly with the blues. The episode culminates in a detailed harmonic analysis of George Gershwin's 'Lady Be Good', providing insights into chord changes, voicings, and practice techniques.
Takeaways
The start of a new month means a new tune.
Essential jazz skills include harmony, melody, improvisation, and rhythm.
Understanding the seven facts of music is crucial for practice.
Improvisation is often misunderstood and requires a proper mindset.
Notes without rhythm lack musicality.
Isolate sound before tackling complex progressions.
Keep improvisation simple to build confidence.
Listening to various renditions of a tune is essential for learning.
Common harmonic progressions are vital for ear training.
Utilizing different voicings enhances musical expression.
Titles
Mastering Jazz Piano Skills
The Importance of Essential Jazz Skills
Sound bites
"Tunes illuminate our weaknesses very quickly."
"Keep it simple."
"Enjoy the sounds of the voicings."
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Duration:00:30:48
50 "Must Know" Rhythms!
6/24/2025
Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
jazz piano, rhythm, improvisation, jazz standards, musical education, melodic vocabulary, jazz techniques, music theory, jazz practice, jazz skills
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence delves into the essential elements of jazz piano, focusing on the importance of rhythm in musical expression. He emphasizes that rhythm is foundational to melody and harmony, and neglecting it can lead to frustration in musical development. The episode features a comprehensive exploration of 50 must-know rhythms that serve as building blocks for creating melodic vocabulary in jazz. Dr. Lawrence encourages listeners to practice these rhythms artistically, highlighting their significance in improvisation and overall musicianship.
Takeaways
Rhythm is crucial for musical expression and development.
Melody and harmony need rhythm to be effective.
Neglecting rhythm can lead to musical frustration.
Rhythm should be a daily focus in practice routines.
Understanding foundational rhythms is essential for all musicians.
Practicing rhythms helps develop melodic vocabulary.
Artistic presentation of rhythms is more important than mathematical accuracy.
Jazz improvisation relies on applying rhythms to melodic ideas.
Take time to master foundational rhythms before advancing.
Enjoy the process of learning and practicing jazz piano.
Titles
Unlocking the Secrets of Jazz Piano
The Rhythm Revolution in Jazz
Sound bites
"50 must-know rhythms for jazz players."
"Good things come in small packages."
"Take your time and enjoy the process."
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Duration:01:08:09
Misty, Improvisation
6/17/2025
Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence guides listeners through the process of improving their improvisation skills using the jazz standard 'MISTY'. The conversation covers essential foundational skills for new jazz pianists, the importance of membership resources, and a structured approach to learning a new tune. Dr. Lawrence emphasizes the significance of rhythm and time in music, and provides practical exercises for developing improvisational skills. The episode concludes with a demonstration of applying these skills to play 'MISTY' improvisationally.
Keywords
Jazz Piano, Improvisation, MISTY, Music Theory, Jazz Skills, Piano Techniques, Music Education, Jazz Chords, Melodic Lines, Rhythm
Takeaways
Improvisation skills are developed through structured practice.
Understanding harmony and melody is crucial for jazz pianists.
Membership in Jazz Piano Skills provides valuable resources and support.
Foundational skills include mastering chords, arpeggios, and scales.
Time is a rigid element in music that must be mastered.
Transitioning from amateur to professional requires intentional practice.
Listening to various renditions of a tune enhances understanding.
Composing melodic lines is essential for improvisation.
Rhythmically altering composed lines helps in improvisation.
Practicing with lead sheets aids in developing improvisational skills.
Titles
Mastering Jazz Piano: The Art of Improvisation
Unlocking Your Jazz Potential with MISTY
Essential Skills for Aspiring Jazz Pianists
The Journey of Jazz Piano: From Basics to Improvisation
Exploring MISTY: A Deep Dive into Jazz Improvisation
Sound Bites
"It's time to discover, learn, and play jazz piano."
"We work on developing our improvisation skills."
"Music is the production of sound and silence."
"You should be a subscriber to the Jazz Piano Skills YouTube channel."
"The most important skill for me to focus on developing?"
"You will struggle unsuccessfully with learning how to play music."
"Music is held together by time."
"You transition from amateur to professional musician."
"You have some work to do to have some fun this week."
"Enjoy MISTY, an improvisation approach."
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Duration:00:29:59
Misty, Melodic Analysis
6/11/2025
Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence delves into the melodic analysis of the classic jazz standard 'Misty.' He emphasizes the importance of a structured practice strategy, the seven facts of music as a guiding compass, and the value of listening to various renditions of a tune. The discussion includes effective practice strategies, daily challenges, and a thorough breakdown of the melody, fingerings, and different treatments of 'Misty.'
Keywords
Jazz Piano, Melodic Analysis, Practice Strategies, Seven Facts of Music, Daily Challenges, Misty, Jazz Education, Improvisation, Music Theory, Jazz Piano Skills
Takeaways
Establishing a well-thought-out practice strategy is crucial.
Information overload can hinder progress in learning jazz.
The seven facts of music serve as a compass for practice.
Listening to multiple renditions of a tune enhances understanding.
Transcribing melodies by ear is essential for jazz musicians.
Daily challenges can help assess and improve skills.
Recognizing melodies is key to effective performance.
Different treatments of a standard can alter its presentation.
Vocal-like playing is a goal for jazz pianists.
A structured approach to learning tunes is beneficial.
Titles
Mastering Melodic Analysis in Jazz Piano
The Seven Facts of Music: Your Guiding Compass
Effective Practice Strategies for Jazz Musicians
Daily Challenges: Maximizing Your Jazz Skills
Exploring 'Misty': A Melodic Journey
Sound Bites
"People don't plan to fail, they just fail to plan."
"Information overload leads to paralysis by analysis."
"The compass are the seven facts of music."
"You cannot formulate a coherent practice plan without the facts."
"Music is the production of sound."
"The daily challenges will help us get there."
"It's important to keep this in mind as we learn."
"We listen to a lot of renditions of whatever tune."
"Does everyone recognize it as I am playing Misty?"
"We want to sound vocal-like when we play melodies."
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Duration:00:30:30
Misty, Harmonic Analysis
6/3/2025
Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence introduces the new monthly tune study, emphasizing a skill-centric approach to learning jazz piano. He outlines the four essential pillars of jazz piano skills: harmony, melody, improvisation, and rhythm. The discussion includes the importance of understanding the seven facts of music and how they relate to developing these skills. Dr. Lawrence also addresses common challenges faced by players, particularly in mastering stride piano, and provides practical tips for improvement. The episode culminates in an exploration of the classic jazz standard 'Misty', detailing the approach to harmonic analysis and the importance of listening to definitive recordings. In this episode, Dr. Bob Lawrence delves into the intricacies of jazz piano, focusing on the classic standard 'Misty.' He discusses the importance of lead sheets for ear training, the structure of the song, and the unique chord changes involved. The conversation also covers common harmonic movements and various voicings, including block, traditional, contemporary, and two-handed structures. Dr. Lawrence emphasizes the significance of these elements in developing jazz skills and invites listeners to participate in the upcoming masterclass for further exploration.
Keywords
Jazz Piano, Stride Piano, Misty, Jazz Skills, Music Education, Harmony, Melody, Improvisation, Rhythm, Music Theory, Jazz, Piano, Lead Sheets, Ear Training, Chord Changes, Voicings, Misty, Harmonic Analysis, Jazz Standards, Music Education
Takeaways
The importance of a skill-centric approach to learning jazz piano.
Essential jazz piano skills are categorized into four pillars: harmony, melody, improvisation, and rhythm.
Understanding the seven facts of music is crucial for developing jazz skills.
Listening to various artists is key to learning a new tune.
Membership in Jazz Piano Skills provides access to premium content and community support.
Struggling with stride piano is common among players; patience and practice are essential.
Practicing strum piano can help develop the skills needed for stride piano.
The two-five-one progression is foundational for jazz musicians.
Transcribing melodies by ear is more effective than using lead sheets.
A structured approach to learning tunes can enhance musical understanding. Lead sheets are essential for ear training.
Understanding the A-A-B-A form is crucial for jazz standards.
Identifying unique chord changes enhances practice.
Common harmonic movements appear frequently in jazz.
Block voicings are foundational for jazz piano.
Traditional and contemporary shells expand harmonic vocabulary.
Two-handed voicings are useful for solo and ensemble playing.
Practice thinking in harmonic functions away from the instrument.
Utilizing software can aid in practicing chord changes.
Engagement in community forums enhances learning.
Titles
Mastering Jazz Piano: The Essential Skills
Unlocking the Secrets of Stride Piano
Exploring the Timeless Standard 'Misty'
The Four Pillars of Jazz Piano Skills
Navigating the Seven Facts of Music
Jazz Piano Skills Membership: Unlocking Your Potential
Sound Bites
"Tunes illuminate our weaknesses very quickly."
"Music is the production of sound and silence."
"Stride piano is not easy, so be patient."
"This is a grea
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Duration:00:32:51