Learn Jazz Standards Podcast

In this engaging episode, Brent explores into the intriguing differences between classical and jazz harmony. He begins by acknowledging that while he's an expert in jazz harmony, his knowledge of classical harmony is more limited. He explains that classical harmony varies across different eras and styles, making it difficult to pinpoint exact differences. However, he highlights that classical music often relies on composed chords that are melodically driven and precisely notated, whereas jazz typically features chord symbols that allow for improvisation and interpretation. Brent emphasizes the freedom and flexibility inherent in jazz harmony, contrasting it with the more structured approach found in classical music. He discusses how jazz musicians have the creative liberty to explore various chord voicings and extensions, fostering a spirit of improvisation and individual expression. Through insightful examples and comparisons, Brent provides listeners with a deeper understanding of the unique characteristics of jazz harmony and its contrast with classical conventions. Whether you're a jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this episode offers valuable insights into the rich and diverse world of musical harmony. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

Join Brent as he explores the art of jazz improvisation. In this episode, Brent answers a listener's question about incorporating enclosures into chord tone maps, offering valuable insights into bebop language and improvisational techniques. Through clear explanations and practical examples, he guides listeners on a journey to enhance their improvisational skills and deepen their understanding of jazz harmony. Discover actionable strategies for targeting chord tones and practicing enclosures, unlocking new possibilities for musical expression. Brent's passion for jazz education shines through as he shares practical exercises and encourages listeners to take action on their musical journey. Tune in to the Learn Jazz Standards podcast for expert advice, engaging discussions, and actionable tips to help you reach your full potential as a jazz musician. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

In this episode, Brent discusses a listener question from Michael George about transferring solo ideas from the mind to the instrument. Brent addresses the disconnect between musical ideas in one's head and their execution on an instrument, highlighting the common challenge of bridging the gap between ear and instrument. He suggests a valuable method for internalizing musical concepts using the L.I.S.T. approach. In addition to offering practical strategies for musical development, Brent's engaging and conversational style makes this episode an enjoyable listen for jazz enthusiasts of all levels. His passion for helping musicians navigate their jazz journey shines through as he shares personal anecdotes and words of encouragement. Whether you're a seasoned player looking to refine your improvisational skills or a beginner seeking guidance on where to start, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration to fuel your musical growth. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

In this episode, Brent tackles a compelling question from Robert about the necessity of learning piano for musicians aiming to master improvisation. Drawing from his own experience as a guitarist navigating the intricacies of harmony, Brent explores the unique advantages that the piano offers in understanding music theory and chordal structures. Through practical insights and expert advice, Brent offers listeners a roadmap for incorporating basic piano skills into their musical toolkit, highlighting the benefits of exploring shell voicings, scales, and chord progressions to deepen their understanding of harmony and enhance their improvisational prowess. This episode serves as a testament to the transformative power of community engagement and collaborative learning in fueling musical progress and personal development. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the role of the piano in jazz improvisation, and discover practical strategies for integrating piano skills into your musical journey. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

In this Fast Track Friday episode, Brent reveals the power of community in fostering long-term musical success. Drawing from his own unexpected journey as a newfound New York Rangers fan, he uncovers the transformative impact of shared interests and camaraderie in fueling passion and motivation. Brent illuminates the profound connection between community engagement and musical growth, highlighting the importance of finding support, inspiration, and belonging within a like-minded group of individuals. He challenges listeners to embrace the enriching experience of communal learning and collaboration as a catalyst for jazz mastery and fulfillment. He offers a compelling blueprint for cultivating a supportive network that not only accelerates musical progress but also enriches the journey of jazz exploration with shared passion, camaraderie, and inspiration. Tune in to this enlightening episode to discover the secret to unlocking your full musical potential through the power of community. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

In this episode, Brent responds to a thought-provoking question from Peter Hakenan, a classically trained trumpet player seeking guidance on bridging music theory with improvisational prowess. Brent unravels the complexities of jazz improvisation, emphasizing the transformation of theoretical knowledge into musical expression. Through engaging examples and step-by-step guidance, Brent empowers aspiring improvisers to transcend scale-based thinking and embrace the creative freedom of musical expression, fostering a deeper connection with the art of jazz improvisation. By cultivating a diverse repertoire of jazz language and developing the ability to manipulate musical ideas, aspiring jazz musicians can unlock new avenues of artistic expression and enhance their improvisational fluency. Join Brent for an enlightening exploration of the intersection between music theory and improvisation, where theory meets practice, and creativity flourishes in the realm of jazz. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

In this episode, Brent explores the intricate art of jazz phrasing, responding to a query from Suze, an Inner Circle member seeking guidance on refining her improvisational skills. Brent elucidates the essence of jazz phrasing, emphasizing its rhythmic nuances and expressive elements that transcend mere note choices. By dissecting the rhythmic patterns and melodic contours of jazz standards, Brent empowers aspiring jazz musicians to internalize the language of jazz and develop their unique improvisational voice, fostering a deeper connection with the music and enhancing their artistic expression. Furthermore, he underscores the importance of diversity in learning sources, urging listeners to explore a wide range of jazz musicians across different instruments to glean insights into varied phrasing approaches. Join Brent for a transformative journey into the heart of jazz phrasing, where knowledge meets action, and practice yields profound musical growth. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

In this episode, Brent addresses an essential aspect of jazz improvisation raised by listener Keith Cramlinger: creating space in solos for a more melodic and musical expression. He shares practical insights and strategies to overcome common challenges faced by jazz players, whether it's developing longer musical phrases or avoiding overwhelming density in improvisations. Brent highlights the importance of mindfulness, imitation, and rhythmic variation in crafting engaging and dynamic solos. By incorporating some techniques, he empowers listeners to cultivate a sense of spaciousness in their playing, fostering a deeper connection with the music and enhancing their improvisational prowess. This episode offers valuable guidance and actionable strategies to elevate your improvisational artistry. Tune in to the Learn Jazz Standards podcast and embark on a transformative journey toward creating more expressive, melodic, and compelling jazz solos. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

In this captivating episode, Brent explores the practical applications of Lydian and Lydian dominant scales in jazz improvisation, addressing a listener's query about using these scales effectively in soloing. Brent's clear explanations and musical examples demystify the Lydian scale's composition and its relationship to the major scale, making complex musical concepts accessible to listeners of all levels. Brent's emphasis on experimentation and creativity underscores the essence of jazz music. By sharing practical tips and actionable insights, he emphasizes integrating the Lydian scale into the improvisational practice, fostering a deeper understanding of modal harmony and enhancing musical expression. This episode offers valuable guidance and inspiration to elevate your playing and enrich your jazz journey. Tune in to the Learn Jazz Standards podcast and embark on a musical adventure filled with discovery, creativity, and endless possibilities. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

In this Fast Track Friday episode, Brent introduces the concept of the "tune of greatness," a powerful strategy for mastering jazz tunes while deepening musical understanding. Drawing from the teachings of jazz mentor Justin Nielsen, Brent elucidates how practitioners can select a tune they love and use it as a canvas for musical exploration and growth. Brent offers practical advice for identifying an ideal "tune of greatness," emphasizing the importance of selecting a song that resonates deeply and shares harmonic commonalities with other jazz standards. Through insightful examples and criteria, he empowers listeners to embark on a journey of musical discovery, leveraging their chosen tune as a vehicle for continuous improvement and creative expression. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

Join Brent today as he tackles a common query from Craig about infusing pentatonic and blues scales with a jazzy flair. He begins by dissecting the essence of jazziness, exploring techniques to elevate these foundational scales into sophisticated improvisational tools. Brent's insightful approach transcends mere scale manipulation, exploring the realm of musicality and language development within jazz improvisation. He encourages moving beyond rote scale patterns to embrace musical lines and licks that embody the jazz tradition authentically. Through practical demonstrations and theoretical insights, Brent provides a roadmap for aspiring jazz musicians to cultivate a nuanced understanding of improvisational language. Brent's podcast offers invaluable guidance to elevate your jazz playing to the next level. Tune in to embark on a transformative journey of musical discovery and mastery. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

In the latest episode, Brent addresses a pivotal query posed by Kevin Mummy: how to strike a balance between imitation and innovation in jazz practice. Brent underscores the importance of emulating jazz luminaries as a means of mastering the musical vernacular, advocating for techniques like solo transcription to absorb the language's nuances fully. By exploring improvisation and composition, he contends that practitioners can unlock avenues for personal expression, paving the way for originality within the tradition. Brent provides a roadmap for aspiring jazz musicians to cultivate their unique identity while honoring the rich heritage of the genre. With engaging anecdotes and actionable tips, his discussion resonates with jazz enthusiasts at all skill levels, from beginners seeking to build a solid foundation to seasoned players aiming to refine their artistic identity. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

In this episode, Brent offers a comprehensive guide to essential jazz standards, answering a listener's question about the top 25 tunes every musician should know. With his extensive knowledge and infectious passion for jazz, Brent curates a diverse list that spans various styles and forms, from classic swing tunes to modal compositions and bossa nova classics. By breaking down each selection and highlighting its unique characteristics, Brent provides invaluable insights for aspiring jazz musicians, offering a roadmap for building a strong repertoire and thriving in jam-session scenarios. From iconic melodies like "Autumn Leaves" and "Take the A -Train" to lesser-known gems such as "Alone Together" and "St. Thomas," this episode serves as a treasure trove of musical inspiration and guidance. Brent's expert recommendations provide a solid foundation for embarking on a rewarding musical journey. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

In this episode, Brent discusses the intricate world of jazz theory, tackling listener questions and demystifying the elusive Phrygian mode. With his signature enthusiasm and clarity, he guides listeners through the nuances of scale theory, shedding light on the practical applications of Phrygian in jazz improvisation. Brent's insightful explanations provide invaluable insights for jazz musicians at all levels, offering a roadmap for navigating complex harmonic landscapes with confidence and creativity. He makes abstract concepts accessible, empowering listeners to deepen their understanding of jazz theory and expand their improvisational toolkit. This episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to fuel your musical journey. Tune in to discover the transformative power of Phrygian and embark on a thrilling exploration of jazz theory with Brent as your guide. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

Join Brent on Fast Track Friday as he reflects on the week's themes and offers strategic advice for cultivating a mindset conducive to musical flow. In this enlightening episode, Brent explores the intricacies of achieving a state of effortless improvisation, drawing parallels between musical performance and everyday experiences. Through insightful anecdotes and practical tips, Brent explores the importance of relinquishing ego and embracing vulnerability to unlock the full potential of musical expression. This episode offers valuable insights into transcending self-doubt and tapping into the limitless creativity of the human mind. From letting go of the fear of failure to embracing the spontaneity of improvisation, Brent shares actionable strategies for fostering a deeper connection with music. Don't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your musical journey and discover the transformative power of the flow state. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

Addressing a query from Patrick LeBlanc, this episode offers insightful tips from Brent on infusing quarter-note-based basslines with the infectious groove of swing. From emphasizing subdivisions to tastefully incorporating triplets, Brent provides practical strategies for enhancing the rhythmic vitality of basslines, catering to musicians of all levels seeking to elevate their jazz improvisation skills. Through engaging anecdotes and expert analysis, this episode illuminates the art of jazz bass playing, offering a blend of technical expertise and artistic sensibility. Whether you're a seasoned bassist or an aspiring jazz musician, Brent's guidance on achieving rhythmic fluidity and musical maturity promises to enrich your understanding of jazz improvisation. Subscribe now to the Learn Jazz Standards podcast and embark on a journey of musical discovery, where every episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for mastering the language of jazz. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

In this episode, Brent addresses Joss Martin's question about the balance between improvising and thinking about chord progressions during a solo. He highlights the importance of preparation in achieving the ability to improvise without conscious thought, emphasizing the role of practice, learning standards, and analyzing chord progressions. Through practical examples and personal anecdotes, Brent explores the journey toward improvisational freedom, offering valuable strategies for developing a natural and intuitive approach to soloing. Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion that will help you navigate the complexities of jazz improvisation and enhance your musicality. Subscribe now for more insightful episodes and expert advice on your favorite podcast platform. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

In this episode, Kevin raises a query about comping on the piano, seeking clarification on placing the melody note within voicings. Brent breaks down the distinction between chord melody and melodic comping, emphasizing the importance of creating movement and melodies within accompaniment. Through practical examples and clear explanations, Brent gives guidance in enhancing comping skills, offering valuable insights for pianists, guitarists, and other comping instruments. Don't miss out on Brent's expertise as he explores the nuances of melodic comping and shares strategies for elevating your musical accompaniment. Subscribe now for more enriching discussions and jazz wisdom on your favorite podcast platform. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

In this episode, Brent discusses the question of whether musicians should explore styles beyond jazz, particularly jamming with those who play country or rock. He emphasizes the immense value in venturing into diverse musical realms, citing the enrichment it brings to one's understanding of music as a whole. Brent encourages embracing musical exploration while recognizing the balance between mastering jazz and delving into other genres. He acknowledges the trade-offs involved, acknowledging that dividing time between different styles may slow progress in any one area but emphasizing the holistic growth it facilitates. He concludes with a reminder of the importance of actionable knowledge and focused practice, inviting listeners to subscribe for more insights and discussions on navigating the multifaceted world of music. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.

In this Fast Track Friday episode, Brent dives into the crucial topic of learning jazz solos by ear. Building upon previous discussions about jazz education and practice strategies, he explores the multifaceted benefits of mastering jazz language through ear training. He explains the purpose behind this practice, highlighting how it strengthens ear-to-instrument connection, enhances rhythm and time feel, and fosters a deep understanding of the language of jazz. Through engaging anecdotes and practical advice, Brent emphasizes the transformative power of ear training in jazz education. He addresses common challenges faced by learners and encourages those navigating the sometimes tedious journey of learning by ear. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting your jazz journey, this episode offers invaluable guidance for honing your skills and mastering the language of jazz. Important Links: Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way LJS Inner Circle Membership Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month! Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.