Most players who choose to learn jazz do so from the inspiration of hearing great jazz. So our early attempts at playing this music consist largely of imitating our favorite players. Eventually, we realize that to understand the language of jazz, we must not only train our ear but study theory as it relates to improvising. That means learning the scales and chords that form progressions and learning to navigate those progressions artistically.
The School of Jazz Online presents theory systematically, allowing the student to learn each skill necessary to improvise on chord changes.
THIS IS NOT A VIDEO SERIES and NOT A SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE
These are live classes held once a week on Zoom.
The curriculum is presented in two 8 week sessions as follows:
SESSION 1
1. How to interpret a melody 2. Major scales in all keys 3. The Major 7th Chord — The I-IV Progression 4. The Dominant 7th Chord — The V7-I Progression
5. Voice Leading 6. The Minor 7th Chord — The II-V-I Progression 7. The VI-II-V--I Progression 8. Applying these concepts to a jazz standard
SESSION 2
9. Rhythm Changes 10. The Blues 11. Bird’s Blues Changes 12. The Minor 7th b5 Chord
13. The Tritone Substitution 14. Giant Steps 15. How to learn a tune 16. Applying all concepts to a jazz standard
In each 90 minute class, new material is presented and immediately applied through specially designed activities. The Zoom format allows students to practice “privately” while on the air and then receive immediate feedback. From high school age to older adults, this course is the perfect next step for any aspiring jazz player.
In addition to customized worksheets for exercises and activities which will be provided, YOU WILL NEED THE FOLLOWING MATERIALS:
- A source for lead sheets such as the Real Book or Jamey Aebersold Volume 43 Groovin’ High - iReal Pro - A metronome (I recommend the Pulse app) - Manuscript paper and a pencil
“Les is that rarest of combinations - a teacher who also happens to be a high-level performer. He is a gifted saxophonist who can step onto any bandstand and floor the crowd. He also has an impressive knowledge of jazz history and theory. Most importantly, he has the ability to transform the vast ocean of jazz music into a practical, graduated, hands-on approach for study by emerging players. If you want to play jazz - start with Les!”
