Learn Jazz Standards Podcast

Topics discussed include bebop scales, the role of music theory in jazz, potential pitfalls of a linear approach, importance of ear and intuition in improvisation, creating tension and resolution in melodies, exploring tonal centers, developing a more melodic sense through free playing

Explore whether jazz greats relied on music theory, the role of theory in jazz, and the importance of ear training and improvisation.

In this episode, Brent answers a question from Kevin, an Inner Circle member. This time, the spotlight is on a dilemma many players face: how much should you practice, and when does the time come to ease up?Brent shares insights into the effectiveness of consistent, strategic, and enjoyable practice, emphasizing quality over quantity. Is it about practicing for hours on end, or can efficient and focused sessions get you where you want to be?Discover the keys to mastering the art of practicing from the best jazz musicians and how it contributes to their proficiency. Whether you're starting your jazz journey or navigating the path to becoming a pro, this episode promises valuable insights to make your practice time truly count.Important Links:Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart WayLJS Inner Circle MembershipListen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!

Learn how to construct killer solos within the constraints of short breaks in big band arrangements. Understand the importance of analyzing chord progressions and harmonizing scales with seventh chords. Explore the concept of voice leading in improvisation and its impact on melodic decisions. Enhance improvisation skills through practice and looping chord progressions. Check out the extensive library of concepts and strategies for jazz improvisation on the podcast.

In this podcast episode, Brent breaks down the application of bebop scales in major, dominant, and minor chords, revealing the magic of chromatic passing tones. He emphasizes viewing the bebop scale as a tool to grasp chromaticism in jazz language rather than as rigid improvisational rules. Discover the art of improvisation and learn how bebop scales can elevate your jazz playing. Uncover practical insights and gain a fresh perspective on utilizing scales in your musical expression.The goal is to deepen the understanding of the bebop scale's practical application in jazz playing.Important Links:Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart WayLJS Inner Circle MembershipListen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!

In this Fast Track Friday episode of the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast, Brent discusses strategies for developing one's own sound in jazz improvisation. He emphasizes the importance of taking influence from a wide variety of jazz musicians, exploring other instruments, and diversifying musical influences outside of jazz. Brent suggests that learning solos from musicians who don't play the same instrument can provide fresh perspectives and ideas. Additionally, he encourages the practice of composition as a means of internalizing and expressing individual musical ideas. Finally, Brent recommends experimenting with different approaches to the instrument, such as exploring various scales, fingerings, or tunings, to foster creativity and unique sounds.Important Links:Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart WayLJS Inner Circle MembershipListen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!

In this episode of the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast, Brent addresses Gary Cavallar's question on shifting focus from playing notes to creating more organic saxophone solos. Brent explores ways to enhance creativity and improvisation. He suggests analyzing habits and incorporating new tools to break repetitive patterns. Learning more jazz language, including licks and solos from musicians, is crucial for expanding musical ideas. Brent emphasizes the importance of composition, either composing full solos or individual choruses, to internalize and refine ideas. Lastly, he advises self-analysis by recording and evaluating one's playing to identify strengths and areas for improvement, thus fostering a more creative and natural approach to improvisation.Important Links:Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart WayLJS Inner Circle MembershipListen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!

In this episode of the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast, Brent addresses the age-old question of proper etiquette when two chording instruments, such as guitar and piano, play together in a jam session. He emphasizes the importance of serving the music and avoiding a chaotic clash of chords. Brent suggests various scenarios, such as taking turns comping or having one instrument play a more subtle role. Personal preference may lead to being the primary or secondary comper, but the key is always serving the music and respecting each musician's role. The key is to prioritize musicality and ensure that everyone contributes to creating a cohesive and enjoyable musical experience.Important Links:Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart WayLJS Inner Circle MembershipListen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!

In this podcast episode, Brent addresses a question from Roxanna, a classically trained pianist struggling with jazz rhythm and phrasing. Brent explains the essence of the swing feel in jazz, emphasizing the triplet-based rhythm. He advises starting with simple exercises, such as playing major scales with a swing feel. The discussion extends to jazz phrasing, highlighting the importance of learning by ear from great jazz musicians. Brent encourages musicians, especially those from classical backgrounds, to internalize jazz phrasing and rhythm through this immersive process, making it an integral part of their practice routine.Important Links:Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart WayLJS Inner Circle MembershipListen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!

In this podcast episode, Brent addresses Jacqueline's question about chromatic passing tones and accents. He emphasizes the importance of understanding swing feel and how it influences accenting in jazz. Brent introduces two types of chromatic note and provides insights into accenting these notes, highlighting that accents often depend on individual musical intuition and can vary based on the context, the musician's style, and specific nuances in phrasing. Brent encourages experimentation and learning from other musicians to develop a natural feel for accenting chromatic lines.Important Links:Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart WayLJS Inner Circle MembershipListen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!