Learn Jazz Standards Podcast

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.

In this episode, Brent tackles a thought-provoking question from Kevin Pritchett about the balance between learning at different speeds and knowing when to move on. Through insightful commentary and practical advice, Brent navigates the complexities of musical learning, offering strategies for maximizing practice time and achieving musical goals effectively. Drawing on his experience as an educator and musician, Brent emphasizes the importance of understanding personal objectives and tailoring practice sessions to address specific needs, whether it's mastering technical execution or absorbing jazz language. Whether you're grappling with tempo challenges or seeking guidance on optimizing practice routines, this episode provides invaluable insights to elevate your musical growth and enhance your jazz playing. 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 talks about the nuances of jazz blues, responding to a listener's query about the differences between traditional 12-bar blues and its jazz counterpart. With clear explanations and musical demonstrations, he breaks down the chord progressions and structural variations characteristic of jazz blues, offering valuable insights for jazz musicians of all levels. From the basic 12-bar format to more complex evolutions like the bird blues, Brent provides a comprehensive overview of jazz blues forms, emphasizing the importance of learning various jazz blues heads to enhance improvisational skills and repertoire. Through practical examples and thoughtful analysis, Brent empowers aspiring jazz musicians to deepen their understanding of blues harmony and develop their improvisational prowess. With engaging anecdotes and helpful tips for effective practice, this episode promises to inspire listeners as they embark on their jazz 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 addresses a listener's question about soloing over modal tunes like "So What" or "Maiden Voyage." He breaks down the concept of modal jazz and offers practical advice for creating engaging improvisations over limited chord changes. By explaining the modal scales associated with each chord and emphasizing the importance of melody creation, he provides valuable insights for jazz musicians at all skill levels. Throughout the episode, Brent delves into the art of improvisation, offering a crash course in modal harmony, and exploring triad patterns and chromatic notes while prioritizing creativity and expression. Through practical tips and musical demonstrations, he encourages elevating improvisational skills and embracing the rich possibilities of modal 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 introduces a listener's question about classical violinists transitioning into jazz music. He highlights the challenges classical musicians face, particularly with improvisation, compared to their familiarity with sheet music interpretation. Brent breaks down the process of learning jazz for classical musicians by providing practical steps and insights. Throughout the episode, Brent emphasizes the importance of active engagement and experimentation in learning jazz. He encourages classical musicians, and musicians of all backgrounds, to embrace the process of improvisation and explore new musical territory with patience and an open mind. By demystifying the transition from classical to jazz music, Brent empowers listeners to embark on a journey of musical discovery and self-expression, reminding them that progress comes from consistent practice, experimentation, and a willingness to step outside of their comfort zones. 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 of the Learn Jazz Standards podcast, Brent discusses the critical importance of finding joy and happiness as a musician. Drawing on personal experiences and insights, he explores the detrimental effects of self-doubt and dissatisfaction on musical growth and fulfillment. Through thought-provoking questions and practical suggestions, Brent invites listeners to explore the sources of happiness in their musical pursuits, whether through enjoyable practice routines, fulfilling challenges, supportive musical environments, or the right equipment. Brent offers a refreshing perspective on overcoming obstacles and cultivating a positive mindset in the pursuit of musical excellence. Tune in to this episode for invaluable insights and inspiration to infuse your musical journey with joy, fulfillment, and lasting satisfaction. 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 podcast episode, Brent discusses a fundamental music theory concept brought up by listener Andy Berry regarding the distinctions between scale tones and chord extensions. Brent equips listeners with a deeper understanding of how the elements of different chord extensions shape harmonic structures and contribute to the rich tapestry of jazz music. With his expert guidance, he shares insights on how to navigate the nuances between scale tones and chord extensions. Through engaging explanations and insightful analogies, Brent empowers musicians to enhance their improvisational skills and expand their harmonic vocabulary. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a budding musician eager to deepen your understanding of music theory, this episode offers valuable insights to enrich 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 episode, Brent addresses a common concern voiced by Cherie Vodica from Raleigh, North Carolina, about regaining confidence in playing with other musicians after spending a significant amount of time practicing alone, particularly due to the isolation brought on by the pandemic. Through insightful advice and practical strategies, Brent offers valuable guidance on overcoming self-doubt and preparing oneself for collaborative musical endeavors. With a blend of empathy and actionable advice, Brent encourages taking proactive steps toward reconnecting with the joy of playing music with others. He advocates for a holistic approach that combines exposure therapy with deliberate practice. By reframing challenges as opportunities for growth and embracing a mindset of curiosity and resilience, musicians can navigate the transition from solitary practice to collaborative performance with confidence and enthusiasm. 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 an essential aspect of jazz theory: the minor 2-5-1 chord progression. Responding to a listener's inquiry, Brent provides a comprehensive breakdown of this foundational progression, elucidating its significance and outlining the various chord qualities and extensions commonly employed. By going into the mechanics of the minor 2-5-1 progression, Brent shares practical knowledge and actionable insights to enhance one's understanding of jazz theory and improvisation. With a focus on demystifying complex concepts and offering tangible examples, he empowers musicians of all levels to navigate the intricacies of chord progressions with confidence and creativity. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a novice looking to expand your musical repertoire, this episode promises to enrich your understanding of jazz harmony and inspire new avenues for exploration in 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 week's episode, Brent discusses a common struggle many musicians face: self-doubt. Through a poignant listener question, he addresses the pervasive nature of self-doubt and shares personal anecdotes, making it evident that even world-class musicians experience this phenomenon. Throughout the episode, Brent offers actionable insights and practical strategies for overcoming self-doubt. By reframing self-doubt as a natural part of the creative process, musicians can cultivate resilience and confidence in their abilities. With Brent's guidance, listeners are empowered to navigate their musical journey with courage, curiosity, and a renewed sense of purpose. Don't miss out on this insightful episode that will inspire you to approach music with acceptance and joy. 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.