Blues Piano 2B

About this course

Participants play and improvise blues in different keys and styles alongside other pianists, while studying recordings by notable blues players through listening and copying exercises. The course explores a range of left-hand approaches and improvisation techniques, with opportunities to investigate styles such as boogie-woogie, New Orleans, jazz, gospel and funk.

What you'll learn

• Perform blues pieces in different styles and keys
• Improvise using the right hand
• Accompany piano playing with varied left-hand patterns
• Identify and discuss a range of blues piano styles

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for intermediate pianists with substantial blues piano experience. Learners should be comfortable playing with both hands, keeping time and participating in group playing and improvisation. Regular, focused practice and preparation of pieces for class are expected.

• Several years of blues piano study or experience are recommended
• Familiarity with material from Improvising Blues Piano may be beneficial
• Participants play and improvise in the company of other pianists

Before you go

• A copy of Tim Richards' Improvising Blues Piano (Schott, 1997) is recommended.
• Learners are expected to prepare pieces and other tasks set for class.