Jazz Piano Advanced Term 3

About this course

The course develops advanced jazz harmony and improvisation through work on standards in styles including swing, Latin, blues, modal, funk and ballad. Learners study altered chords and scales, polychords, tritone substitution, rootless voicings, rhythm changes, melodic minor harmony and double-time playing, alongside advanced chord-recognition ear training. Teaching combines individual playing, paired work and exercises in rhythm, technique and chordal accompaniment. Regular listening to recordings supports repertoire study, while learners prepare tunes and may perform at the end of the term in a trio with bass and drums.

What you'll learn

• Apply advanced improvisation techniques across a varied jazz-standard repertoire
• Use altered harmony, polychords, tritone substitution and rootless voicings in jazz piano playing
• Accompany other musicians with bass lines and chords
• Interpret lead sheets and perform tunes in contrasting jazz styles
• Recognise advanced chord qualities through ear-training exercises

Is this course right for you?

This course is intended for advanced jazz pianists with several years of study and a working knowledge of jazz theory, chord symbols and modes. It also assumes developed improvisation and coordination skills, music-reading ability, regular practice between classes and consistent weekly attendance.

• Completion of Jazz Piano 4A and 4B is specified as an entry requirement
• Weekly homework includes assignments and preparation of tunes for in-class performance
• Term 3 online enrolment is restricted to learners enrolled in the previous term

Before you go

• Bring a notebook or manuscript paper and a pen or pencil.
• The course uses Exploring Jazz Piano Vol. 2 by Schott Music.
• An MP3 recorder or other recording device may be brought optionally.
• Access to online course materials, including recordings and sheet music, is explained during the first session.