Introduction to Jazz Piano Term 2

About this course

The course develops introductory jazz piano skills through work on harmony, improvisation and rhythm. Participants play individually, listen to the tutor and other students, and study musical examples from different jazz traditions, including blues, swing and Latin jazz. Teaching combines verbal explanation with handouts, videos, practical demonstrations and activities involving singing and clapping. Piano exercises address coordination between the left and right hands, while guided work explores how rhythmic, melodic and harmonic ideas can be used in jazz solos.

What you'll learn

• Improvise over simple jazz chord sequences using an appropriate method.
• Play solos in a jazz style using characteristic rhythmic, melodic and harmonic ideas.
• Develop knowledge of jazz styles including blues, swing and Latin jazz.
• Use basic left- and right-hand coordination exercises to develop greater independence at the piano.
• Recognise jazz from different musical traditions.

Is this course right for you?

This continuation course is intended for pianists with practical skills around Grade 3 ABRSM or equivalent. Learners are expected to play piano individually, listen to others and take part in singing and clapping exercises. Tutor approval is required before enrolment.

• Requires practical piano skills at around Grade 3 ABRSM or equivalent.
• Learners should be able to play with both hands, play by ear with both hands, or read a melody line with chord symbols.
• The course continues from Jazz Piano 1A.

Before you go

• Participants should have a piano available for practice at home.
• Bring manuscript paper, a notebook and writing materials.