Jazz piano 2

About this course

The course extends jazz piano skills through major and relative-minor standards, modal tunes and modal playing. Topics include minor-key II-V-I cadences, approaches to improvisation, essential playing material, effective practice and maintaining time. Teaching combines tutor input, individual guidance and practice with rhythm-section backing tracks. Most playing takes place as a group at digital pianos, with work on intros, basslines, comping and playing with others.

What you'll learn

• Play standard tunes in major and relative-minor keys
• Improvise solos over standard tunes
• Use minor-key II-V-I cadences and modal approaches
• Create introductions and basslines
• Comp effectively in swing and Latin time

Is this course right for you?

This course is intended for improver-level pianists developing beyond introductory jazz piano study. Participation involves individual practice as well as playing mostly as a group, including work with rhythm-section backing tracks.

• Learners should have completed Jazz piano 1 or developed equivalent shell voicings for II-V-I cadences in all major keys.
• Experience listening to jazz piano is expected.
• Learners should be able to interpret diatonic chord changes in standard lead sheets.
• Confidence using the modes of the major scale is expected.

Before you go

• Bring manuscript paper and a pencil.
• A device for recording the class may be brought if desired.
• Learning resources are available through Google Classroom.