
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
Blue Bossa, Harmonic Analysis
9/2/2025
Podcast Packets
Illustrations
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
Podcast Packets
Illustrations
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
Podcast Packets
Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
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."
Support the show
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
Rhythmic Major Arpeggios
5/27/2025
Podcast Packets
Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence delves into the essential role of rhythm in jazz music, emphasizing its importance in improvisation and overall musicianship. The discussion begins with a review of the jazz standard 'Georgia on My Mind' and transitions into a deep exploration of rhythmic skills, highlighting common pitfalls in music education regarding rhythm neglect. Dr. Lawrence provides practical exercises for mastering rhythmic concepts and introduces rhythmic major arpeggios as a tool for developing melodic vocabulary. The episode concludes with an invitation to further explore these concepts in upcoming masterclasses and resources available to Jazz Piano Skills members.
Keywords
Jazz Piano, Rhythm, Improvisation, Music Education, Jazz Skills, Major Arpeggios, Musical Growth, Jazz Standards, Georgia on My Mind, Music Fundamentals
Takeaways
Rhythm is the engine that drives music.
Neglecting rhythm leads to musical frustration.
Daily rhythm practice is essential for growth.
Understanding measures and time is crucial for musicianship.
Rhythmic motifs can develop melodic vocabulary.
All rhythms are combinations of basic note values.
Recording yourself can expedite learning.
Practicing in different keys enhances musicality.
Awareness of time is key to playing music.
Rhythm should be a fundamental focus in music education.
Titles
Unlocking the Secrets of Jazz Piano
The Rhythm Revolution in Jazz
Mastering Jazz with Rhythmic Arpeggios
From Georgia to Groove: A Jazz Journey
The Heartbeat of Jazz: Understanding Rhythm
Jazz Piano Skills: The Essential Guide
Sound Bites
"Rhythm is the engine that drives music."
"Neglect rhythm and you will remain musically frustrated."
"Rhythm deserves daily attention."
"It's personal. It's very personal."
"No rhythmic skills, no playing music."
"Good things come in small packages."
"Everything else in music will be difficult."
"You have to be consciously aware of filling one measure."
"Rhythmic motifs can develop melodic vocabulary."
"All rhythms are some combination of basic note values."
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Duration:00:33:14
Georgia on My Mind, Improvisation
5/20/2025
Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
jazz piano, improvisation, rhythm challenge, Georgia on my mind, music education, jazz skills, harmonic analysis, melodic analysis, jazz community, music practice
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence guides listeners through the essential elements of jazz piano improvisation, focusing on the tune 'Georgia on My Mind.' The discussion covers the importance of rhythmic vocabulary, harmonic and melodic analysis, and the seven facts of music that underpin effective improvisation. Listeners are encouraged to engage with rhythm challenges and explore various approaches to learning and playing jazz piano, emphasizing the value of community and membership in enhancing their musical journey.
Takeaways
Improvisation development is a key focus in jazz piano skills.
Understanding the seven facts of music is crucial for musicians.
Rhythm challenges help develop essential playing skills.
Membership offers valuable resources and community support.
Daily rhythm practice is vital for building a rhythmic vocabulary.
Listening to various artists enhances musical understanding.
Harmonic and melodic analysis are essential for learning tunes.
Improvisation involves unfolding harmony rhythmically.
Engaging with the community fosters growth and learning.
Consistent practice leads to significant improvement in playing.
Titles
Mastering Jazz Piano: The Art of Improvisation
Unlocking the Secrets of Jazz Piano Skills
Rhythm and Harmony: The Foundations of Jazz
Exploring Georgia on My Mind: A Jazz Journey
The Importance of Rhythm in Jazz Improvisation
Building a Rhythmic Vocabulary for Jazz Piano
Sound Bites
"It's time to discover, learn, and play jazz piano."
"We will have our rhythm challenge."
"We must have a crystal clear thought process."
"These seven facts are indeed really important."
"Music is the production of sound and silence."
"Rhythm is essential to our musical skills."
"Your membership keeps the Jazz Panel Skills podcast ad-free."
"Without a rhythmic vocabulary, we will never obtain the playing skills."
"Rhythmic challenges are real for everyone."
"You will see a remarkable improvement in your playing."
Jazz Piano Skills
https://www.jazzpianoskills.com
Jazz Piano Skills Membership
https://www.jazzpianoskills.com/jazz-piano-skills-membership-privileges.html
MEMBERSHIP COUPON
Use the Coupon Code YouTube20 to receive a 20% Membership Savings
Rhythm Challenge
https://www.jazzpianoskills.com/rhythmchallenge.html
One Minute Lessons
https://www.jazzpianoskills.com/one-minute-lessons.html
Jazz Piano Skills Podcast
https://www.jazzpianoskillspodcast.com
Contact Dr. Lawrence
drlawrence@jazzpianoskills.com
Office: 972-380-8050 Ext. 211
Text: 972-380-8050
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Duration:00:31:10
Georgia on My Mind, Melodic Analysis
5/13/2025
Podcast Packets
Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
jazz piano, melodic analysis, practice strategy, seven facts of music, Georgia on My Mind, jazz education, improvisation, voicings, target notes, music theory
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence delves into the melodic analysis of 'Georgia on My Mind,' emphasizing the importance of a structured practice strategy and understanding the seven facts of music. The discussion covers the significance of learning melodies by ear, dissecting melodic phrases, and applying various voicings to enhance performance. The episode concludes with practical tips for practicing and enjoying the process of learning jazz piano.
Takeaways
Melodic analysis is crucial for understanding jazz tunes.
A structured practice strategy is essential for progress.
The seven facts of music guide our understanding of sound.
Learning by ear enhances musicality and improvisation skills.
Transcribing melodies develops a musician's ear.
Identifying phrases within a melody aids in memorization.
Target notes help in understanding melodic structure.
Applying voicings enriches the performance of a melody.
Simplicity in playing can lead to effective jazz performance.
Enjoying the learning process is key to becoming a skilled musician.
Titles
Unlocking Jazz Piano Skills: A Melodic Journey
Mastering 'Georgia on My Mind': A Melodic Analysis
The Seven Facts of Music: Your Guide to Jazz
Effective Practice Strategies for Jazz Musicians
Transcribing Melodies: The Key to Jazz Mastery
Exploring Melodic Phrases in Jazz Standards
Sound Bites
"It's time to discover, learn, and play jazz piano."
"People don't plan to fail, they just fail to plan."
"We need correct information that is presented coherently."
"Music is the production of sound and silence."
"The seven facts of music are essential."
"Transcribing melodies develops your ear."
"Learning by ear is crucial for jazz musicians."
"Keep it simple: block chords and melody."
"Practice these shapes with the melody."
"Enjoy Georgia On My Mind, a melodic analysis."
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Duration:00:33:35
Georgia on My Mind, Harmonic Analysis
5/6/2025
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Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
Jazz Piano, Essential Skills, Rhythm, Harmony, Melody, Improvisation, Georgia on My Mind, Jazz Standards, Music Education, Piano Techniques
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence introduces the new monthly tune, 'Georgia on My Mind,' emphasizing the importance of a skill-centric approach to learning jazz piano. He discusses the four essential pillars of jazz piano: harmony, melody, improvisation, and rhythm, highlighting how each contributes to a musician's overall proficiency. The episode also addresses common challenges faced by pianists, particularly in rhythm, and offers practical strategies for improvement. The conversation culminates in a detailed harmonic analysis of 'Georgia on My Mind,' providing listeners with insights into the tune's structure and essential skills for performance.
Takeaways
The start of a new month means a new tune.
Being skill-centric is crucial for learning tunes.
Essential jazz skills are organized into four pillars: harmony, melody, improvisation, and rhythm.
Rhythm is often the biggest challenge for musicians.
Daily rhythm challenges can help improve rhythmic skills.
Understanding the seven facts of music is essential for development.
Melodies should be played with elasticity, not rigidity.
Practice harmonic and melodic analysis for better understanding.
Use lead sheets to practice chord changes and harmonic functions.
Engage with the Jazz Piano Skills community for support and resources.
Titles
Mastering Jazz Piano: The Essential Skills
Unlocking the Secrets of Jazz Harmony
Rhythm: The Heartbeat of Jazz Piano
Overcoming Stiffness in Piano Playing
A Deep Dive into Georgia on My Mind
The Four Pillars of Jazz Piano Skills
Sound Bites
"It's time to discover, learn, and play jazz piano."
"Tunes illuminate our weaknesses very quickly."
"Rhythm is the number one reason people struggle."
"Melodies are meant to be played, not mathematically correct."
"You can gain a rhythmic command of time."
"Georgia on my mind is textbook."
"Practice reciting lead sheet three and lead sheet four."
"Nothing wrong with block voicings."
"Bathe in these shapes, get them in your ears."
"Have fun as you discover, learn and play jazz piano."
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Duration:00:33:57
Improvisation, a Rhythmic Command of Time
4/29/2025
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Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
Jazz Piano, Improvisation, Rhythmic Command, Music Education, Jazz Skills, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Bossa Nova, Melodic Analysis, Harmonic Analysis, Jazz Vocabulary, jazz piano, improvisation, rhythmic patterns, music education, jazz exercises, melodic lines, recording practice, music theory, jazz skills, piano techniques
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence emphasizes the critical importance of rhythmic command in improvisation. He discusses the misconceptions surrounding improvisation, clarifying that it is not about spontaneous creativity but rather about mastering rhythmic patterns and musical vocabulary. The episode includes practical exercises designed to enhance rhythmic skills both harmonically and melodically, providing listeners with a structured approach to developing their improvisational abilities. In this episode, Dr. Bob Lawrence delves into the intricacies of improvisation in jazz piano, emphasizing the importance of rhythmic command and the mindset required for effective practice. He discusses various exercises that transition from downbeats to upbeats, the significance of recording oneself to identify areas for improvement, and the necessity of approaching exercises as melodic lines rather than mere drills. The conversation culminates in a call to action for listeners to engage with the material and develop their improvisational skills through consistent practice and reflection.
Takeaways
Titles
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Duration:00:25:00
Diatonic Improvisation Patterns
4/22/2025
Podcast Packets
Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs
Jazz Piano Skills Community
Keywords
Jazz Piano, Diatonicism, Improvisation, Harmonic Analysis, Melodic Analysis, Jazz Vocabulary, Arpeggios, Jazz Education, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Wave
Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence explores the intricacies of jazz piano through the lens of diatonicism, harmonic and melodic analysis, and practical exercises. The discussion begins with a review of the jazz standard 'Wave' by Antonio Carlos Jobim, focusing on harmonic and melodic structures. The importance of diatonicism in improvisation is emphasized, along with practical exercises for mastering four-note arpeggios. The episode culminates in a detailed exploration of diatonic improvisation exercises, providing listeners with tools to enhance their jazz vocabulary and improvisational skills.
Takeaways
Titles
Sound Bites
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Duration:00:24:49