Learn Jazz Standards Podcast

This podcast explores three mindset shifts to improve at jazz faster: adopting a growth mindset, embracing mistakes as part of the learning process, and focusing on fewer elements in practice sessions. These shifts can have a positive impact on one's journey in jazz music.

Brent discusses recognizing and using secondary dominants in jazz standards, using a one-six-two-five chord progression in the key of C as an example. He highlights examples of secondary dominants in jazz compositions and emphasizes the importance of analyzing jazz standards. Brent concludes by discussing the application of tension and resolution in improvisation over secondary dominants.

In this podcast episode, Brent addresses a question from a listener named Lewis. Lewis is interested in transitioning smoothly between unrelated keys in jazz improvisation, specifically dealing with non-diatonic chord progressions. Brent emphasizes the importance of thinking about voice leading, even when faced with unrelated chords. He uses examples from jazz standards like "Beatrice" and "Well You Needn't" to illustrate the concept. Brent suggests focusing on resolving notes melodically and encourages listeners to experiment with various ways of connecting unrelated chords. He also touches on the importance of instrument navigation, suggesting that musicians explore different registers and positions to enhance their ability to connect chords seamlessly. The episode concludes with a reminder to practice creatively and address specific musical challenges systematically.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!

This podcast explores the possibility of playing jazz on non-traditional instruments and emphasizes the importance of learning songs, understanding chords, and improvisation for all musicians. It discusses the universal fundamentals of playing jazz on different instruments and showcases examples of non-jazz instruments like the ukulele, dobro, and lap steel. The episode highlights the benefits of the Inner Circle membership for jazz skill development and encourages musicians to embrace their instrument and create a unique sound while taking action and practicing effectively.

Brent candidly discusses the fear of sounding bad in jazz and how it impedes progress and creativity. He shares his experience of overcoming this challenge by adopting a growth mindset and embracing mistakes. The importance of mindset in jazz and the parallel with sports psychology is highlighted.

In this podcast episode, Brent addresses the issue of playing short and choppy phrases in solos. He introduces the subdivisions exercise to help musicians develop longer, flowing eighth note lines. The episode emphasizes the importance of incorporating longer lines to enhance the professionalism of a solo. The podcast also includes tips on how to create flow in solos by playing continuous eighth notes and triplets.

The podcast discusses the importance of scales and arpeggios in jazz improvisation and suggests a framework for connecting them creatively. It emphasizes the value of relying on one's ear and forgetting about theory in order to achieve greater musical expression. The episode also highlights the significance of ear training and improv for enhancing natural playing.

The podcast explores the concept of ghost notes in jazz improvisation, using 'Scrapple from the Apple' as an example. Ghost notes add a certain feel to the music and are best learned organically through playing and phrasing jazz. The importance of knowledge in action and focused practice is emphasized.

Explore the question of the greatest jazz guitarist and the influence of guitarists like Wes Montgomery and Charlie Christian. Highlight the impact of jazz guitarists such as Django Reinhardt, Wes Montgomery, Jim Hall, Joe Pass, and more. Discover the unique sounds and influences of modern jazz guitarists like Bill Friselle and Kurt Rosenwinkle.

The podcast addresses the importance of good technique in playing jazz well and minimizing the risk of injury. It shares personal experiences and examples of famous musicians with different approaches to technique. The episode emphasizes the need for individualized approaches and good posture to ensure longevity in playing.