Blog – Learn Jazz Standards https://www.learnjazzstandards.com Jazz advice and Jazz tips for Jazz musicians Wed, 30 Jul 2025 17:20:04 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/cropped-favicon-32x32.png Blog – Learn Jazz Standards https://www.learnjazzstandards.com 32 32 The 50 Best Jazz Trumpet Players Of All Time https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/best-jazz-trumpet-players/ Wed, 30 Jul 2025 17:10:28 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=197348 Are you ready to embark on a journey and discover the 50 greatest jazz trumpet players of all time? In this article, we pull from over a century of jazz history to deliver you the most influential figures in jazz trumpet. You’ll know many of these jazz trumpet players, but some of them will surely […]

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]]> Louis Armstrong - West End Blues nonadult Master The Dorian Scale Formula In All 12 Keys https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/dorian-scale-guitar-piano/ Thu, 24 Jul 2025 15:09:45 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=194825 The Dorian scale is one of the most used scales in music. Genres like jazz and rock music utilize the Dorian sound because it has unique characteristics—it is a minor mode and contains a minor third. However, it is brighter than the standard minor scale because it contains a major sixth interval. If you want […]

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]]> 9 Ways to Supercharge Your Improv With the Pentatonic Scale https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/9-uses-for-pentatonic-scale/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/9-uses-for-pentatonic-scale/#respond Thu, 24 Jul 2025 13:37:03 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=193305 The pentatonic scale is everywhere! From rock music, blues, and jazz to world music and other musical styles, pentatonic scales are a nearly universal phenomenon in human cultures worldwide. Whether studying jazz solos, the music of the Middle Ages, folk music, or Andean music, you’ll be sure to come across this five-note scale in your […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/9-uses-for-pentatonic-scale/feed/ 0 How Many Minor Scales Are There? Learn These 3 Scales! https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/three-minor-scales/ Wed, 23 Jul 2025 16:07:23 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=194846 Are you confused about minor scales and how to use them when improvising? If you are used to guessing and hoping what you play works (fingers crossed), then this article is for you! I’ll go over the three types of minor scales and their applications in improvisation. We’ll also learn about the minor modes embedded […]

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]]> The Best Ear Training for Jazz nonadult 5 Diminished Chord Progressions Every Jazz Musician Should Know https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/diminished-chord-progressions/ Tue, 22 Jul 2025 16:58:26 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=197273 Diminished chords are one of the most versatile and least understood tools in your musician’s toolbox! Understanding how jazz musicians utilize diminished chord progressions is essential for truly mastering your craft. That’s why we’re going to explore five crucial diminished chord progressions found across many jazz standards. Memorize these five diminished jazz chord progressions, their […]

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]]> Blues Scale Masterclass! Master These 5 Blues Scales https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/blues-scale/ Thu, 29 May 2025 15:45:57 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=193523 The blues scale is a useful tool musicians use to capture the unique tonal qualities of the blues. However, it isn’t the only useful tool in the toolbox. Depending on what you try to do, there may be even better options for infusing your playing with the sound of the blues. In this article, we […]

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]]> Diminished Chords Workshop: Supercharge Your Jazz Skills https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/diminished-chords/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/diminished-chords/#respond Tue, 27 May 2025 17:10:25 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=22701 Some musicians’ eyes glaze over when they hear “diminished chord,” but don’t fear! Understanding diminished chords is easy, and learning about what makes diminished chords work will make you a better jazz musician. In this Diminished Chord Workshop, we’ll explore everything you need to know about diminished chords, from how to build them to the […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/diminished-chords/feed/ 0 12 ESSENTIAL JAZZ CHORD PROGRESSIONS TO MASTER JAZZ HARMONY https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/jazz-chord-progressions/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/jazz-chord-progressions/#respond Wed, 21 May 2025 16:28:14 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=36253 Jazz chord progressions don’t have to be confusing. Many players who want to learn jazz music feel overwhelmed when they try to analyze jazz chord progressions and understand how they work. Because jazz chord progressions and jazz chords are harmonically complex, many musicians shy away from learning how to understand and wield them. However, with […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/jazz-chord-progressions/feed/ 0 Summertime Chords and Analysis—Learn This Classic Jazz Standard! https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/summertime-chords/ Tue, 20 May 2025 15:18:37 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=197163 Summertime is one of the most iconic jazz standards of all time! The Summertime chords and lyrics simply ooze American folk magic. Simply put, you should learn this jazz standard if you haven’t already, as it is a staple of jazz jam sessions and is even recognized outside of jazz circles. In this article, we’ll […]

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]]> Billie Holiday & Her Orchestra - Summertime (Official Audio) nonadult What Is Jazz Fusion? 15 Must-Hear Jazz Fusion Artists https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/jazz-fusion-artists/ Sun, 18 May 2025 16:02:12 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=197132 Jazz fusion is an important subgenre and a crucial part of jazz’s history and evolution. If you want to grasp the complete picture of jazz and its influence on music, you’ll need to learn about jazz fusion! This exciting branch of jazz music emerged in the 1960s and is still relevant today! In fact, many […]

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]]> M Davis Bitches Brew 1970Full Album] HD 1080p (1) nonadult 50 Jazz Licks To Supercharge Your Jazz Solos https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/50-jazz-licks/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/50-jazz-licks/#respond Wed, 14 May 2025 15:34:32 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=37619 Learning jazz licks is a great way to have a hands-on experience with the jazz language. Jazz licks—especially ones taken from or inspired by the jazz greats—help you think like a great jazz improviser. This article will put you in the pilot seat and help you to start thinking about harmony and melody like a […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/50-jazz-licks/feed/ 0 Learn Drop 2 Voicings on Piano and Guitar! https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/drop-2-voicings/ Mon, 05 May 2025 17:09:45 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=197099 Every jazz student will eventually encounter the concept of “drop 2 voicings.” If you want to become the best jazz player you can be, you’ll need to understand drop 2 voicings—even if you aren’t a chordal player! In this article, I’ll review everything you need to know about drop 2 voicings. We’ll cover: If you […]

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]]> Jazz Trumpet Beginners Guide: Start Here! https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/jazz-trumpet-beginners-guide/ Thu, 10 Apr 2025 16:43:51 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=193527 So, you want to try your hand at playing jazz trumpet. Well, you’ve come to the right place! In this intro guide to jazz trumpet, we will explore everything you need to know to start playing jazz on the trumpet. While there are core principles of jazz that aren’t instrument-specific, to truly master jazz trumpet, […]

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]]> Chord Voicings Crash Course! Everything You Should Know About Chord Voicings https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/chord-voicings/ Fri, 21 Mar 2025 18:16:38 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=197059 There’s a big gap between knowing what chords are and playing chords like Bill Evans! If you hope to bridge that gap, you should study chord voicings! Chord voicings refer to the many different ways you can express harmony. Yes, a C chord is only made of a C, an E, and a G, but […]

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]]> Understand Scale Degrees And Master Music Theory! https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/scale-degrees/ Tue, 18 Mar 2025 14:30:59 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=197053 Learning scale degrees will help you see the structure of chords, scales, and arpeggios. Using the scale degree framework to understand music theory, you’ll develop an intuitive, functional understanding of these essential musical concepts and become a better musician! This article will explore everything you need to know about scale degrees and how they enhance […]

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]]> 12 Must-Know Minor Chord Progressions (And 5 Practice Tips) https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/minor-chord-progressions/ Thu, 13 Mar 2025 15:26:16 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=197016 To master jazz, you must play through and memorize common minor chord progressions! From a short minor iiø-V-i to longer tunes written entirely in minor keys, minor chord progressions comprise about twenty-five percent of all jazz standards. In this article, we’ll discuss all the minor chord progressions you’ll likely encounter in jazz standards! This thorough […]

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]]> What is Hard Bop? (Plus the 15 Most Iconic Hard Bop Albums) https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/hard-bop/ Fri, 07 Mar 2025 17:16:14 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=196958 Hard Bop is an important subgenre of jazz and a highly influential period in jazz history that saw the ascendency of many iconic jazz musicians and gave rise to legendary jazz albums that still hold sway over the jazz world today. But what makes the Hard Bop style so Hard Bop, for lack of a […]

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]]> Art Blakey & the Jazz Messengers - Moanin' nonadult Backdoor Progression Masterclass: Master the Backdoor ii-V! https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/backdoor-progression/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/backdoor-progression/#respond Thu, 27 Feb 2025 18:09:07 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=61705 If you’ve studied jazz for a while, it won’t be long before you discover the concept of the “backdoor progression.” It is an important chord progression that takes the listener through a “backdoor” to a target chord instead of going through the regular dominant or V chord. In this article, we’ll learn all about this […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/backdoor-progression/feed/ 0 Easy Jazz Chords! Learn These 20 Jazz Guitar Chords https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/essential-jazz-guitar-chords/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/essential-jazz-guitar-chords/#respond Tue, 25 Feb 2025 17:19:49 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=1184 Whether you’ve been playing jazz guitar for a while or are new to jazz music, one thing you’ll most definitely need to take your jazz guitar playing to the next level is a solid understanding of jazz guitar chords. Jazz chords are lush and rich compared to other genres, so you’ll need several jazz chords […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/essential-jazz-guitar-chords/feed/ 0 Jazz Chords for Beginners (Every Jazz Chord You Need To Know) nonadult Learn these 13 Easy Music Intervals For Music Mastery https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/music-intervals/ Mon, 24 Feb 2025 16:37:37 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=194977 Music intervals are the building blocks of melody, harmony, and musical structure. Everything you’ll learn as a Western-trained musician will be tethered to musical intervals, whether you play jazz, classical, rock, or other popular music. Whether you are learning chords, scales, arpeggios, or chord progressions, you’ll need to understand intervals first! In this article, we’ll […]

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]]> Tempo Rubato: Enhance Your Musical Expression Like A #1 Pro https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/tempo-rubato/ Thu, 20 Feb 2025 19:14:47 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=196828 You’ve probably heard the term tempo rubato, but have you ever thought about what it really means? Some musicians may dismiss it as playing “free” or “out of time,” but those explanations fail to capture this powerful musical technique’s real essence and context-dependent meanings. Tempo rubato is an essential skill that every jazz musician needs […]

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]]> Keith Jarrett - Over the Rainbow (Tokyo 1984) [Restored] nonadult 12 Useful Jazz Turnarounds To Enhance Your Jazz Playing https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/jazz-turnarounds/ Wed, 19 Feb 2025 18:42:14 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=196823 If you want to be the best jazz player you can be, you need to understand jazz turnarounds. Even non-chordal saxophone and trumpet players need to know about different jazz turnarounds to navigate these chord progressions when improvising over jazz songs! We’re about to embark on a journey that will help you understand and recognize […]

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]]> 50 Famous Saxophone Players. Who Are The Best Saxophone Players of All Time? https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/famous-saxophone-players/ Mon, 17 Feb 2025 18:20:41 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=195427 Jazz history is full of incredible jazz saxophonists, but deciding on the best saxophone players of all time requires some serious thought and reflection! The jazz saxophonists on this list brought (or still bring) something unique to the jazz world. Whether they were amazing multi-instrumentalists, genre renegades, fearless innovators, or jazz pioneers, the jazz musicians […]

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]]> LESTER YOUNG 'Pennies from Heaven' 1950 nonadult 50 FAMOUS JAZZ MUSICIANS! DO YOU KNOW THESE GREAT JAZZ ARTISTS? https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/famous-jazz-musicians/ Mon, 20 Jan 2025 16:48:11 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=193474 The best way to learn any language is to listen to its native speakers. When it comes to understanding the musical language of jazz, there are so many famous jazz musicians you can learn from. This list of great jazz musicians is designed to introduce you to fifty of them. The truth is that so […]

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]]> The Best Of Louis Armstrong (2h) nonadult 2-5-1 Chord Progression Masterclass: Learn the ii-V-I Progression! https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/2-5-1-chord-progression/ Tue, 14 Jan 2025 15:55:49 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=194602 The 2-5-1 chord progression is the most common (and maybe most important) harmonic building block used in jazz standards. Knowing what ii-V-I chord progressions are, how to identify them, and how to improvise over them are essential to playing jazz! Luckily, we will do a deep dive into the ii-V-I progression, so you’ll come away […]

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]]> All Of Me Jazz Workshop—Play This Iconic Jazz Song Today! https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/all-of-me-jazz-standard/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/all-of-me-jazz-standard/#respond Tue, 07 Jan 2025 16:30:10 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=2485 Welcome to this “All of Me” Jazz Workshop! We will review everything you need to know to master this iconic jazz standard. By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to improvise over and perform “All of Me,” whether at home or your local jam session! Here are some of the essentials we’ll cover: […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/all-of-me-jazz-standard/feed/ 0 All Of Me nonadult Learn All The Things You Are Chords! Master This Classic Jazz Standard https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/all-the-things-you-are/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/all-the-things-you-are/#respond Fri, 03 Jan 2025 15:35:44 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=53 “All The Things You Are” is a classic jazz standard you must learn to master jazz harmony and memorize how jazz songs move. This tune’s chord progression contains the secrets found in many key jazz standards that, once memorized and internalized, will help you master the jazz language. In this article, we’ll explore the chord […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/all-the-things-you-are/feed/ 0 Ella Fitzgerald - All The Things You Are (with lyrics) nonadult Musical Cadences: Learn 4 Essential Cadence Types (And More) https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/musical-cadences/ Mon, 23 Dec 2024 16:07:24 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=196544 Musical Cadences are harmonic sequences that resolve or otherwise mark the end of a musical phrase. These chord resolutions come in various types and can be heard across many musical genres! To be the best musician you can be, it’s essential to know what these different cadences sound like and how they function. That’s why […]

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]]> The Melodic Minor Scale: Complete Musician’s Guide https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/melodic-minor-scale/ Wed, 18 Dec 2024 15:28:26 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=193462 If you already feel comfortable with the major scale and all its modes, chances are you are looking for new scales to enhance your jazz playing. The major scale and its modes can handle plenty of jazz chord progressions, but they aren’t enough to capture the entire scope of the “jazz sound.” You’ll need more […]

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]]> Augmented Chord Crash Course: Elevate Your Playing With Augmented Chords https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/augmented-chord/ Wed, 11 Dec 2024 17:04:27 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=196485 To fully understand music theory, you’ll need to know what an augmented chord is. Augmented chords are essential chords that have several applications in songwriting and improvising. This article will explore everything you need to know about augmented chords! We’ll talk about If you want to take your theory chops to the next level, check […]

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]]> Iris (2022 Remaster) nonadult The Girl From Ipanema Chords: Master This Bossa Nova Classic https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/girl-from-ipanema-chords/ Fri, 06 Dec 2024 16:11:32 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=196468 “The Girl From Ipanema” is a classic Bossa Nova song that helped kick off the Bossa Nova craze in the United States. It is one of the most famous jazz standards and possibly the second most recorded song in history, after “Yesterday” by the Beatles. In this article, we will learn how to play this […]

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]]> "The Girl from Ipanema" Astrud Gilberto, João Gilberto and Stan Getz nonadult Misty Chords Jazz Tutorial: Master Misty In 3 Steps https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/misty-chords-jazz-tutorial/ Wed, 04 Dec 2024 15:36:11 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=188838 So, you want to learn the jazz ballad, Misty? Excellent! You’ve come to the right place. This article will explain everything you need to know to understand, memorize, and play Misty. In this Misty jazz tutorial, you’ll learn— Be sure to use the table of contents to get right to the harmonic analysis. This article […]

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]]> Learn Jazz Standards Blog adult There Will Never Be Another You: Learn This Iconic Jazz Standard https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/there-will-never-be-another-you/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/there-will-never-be-another-you/#respond Tue, 03 Dec 2024 16:41:15 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=349 “There Will Never Be Another You” is an iconic jazz standard that jazz fans should be familiar with—especially since this tune is a common jam session classic. If you are studying jazz or want to learn more about this particular tune, this jazz standard contains many iconic jazz chord progressions found in countless other jazz […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/there-will-never-be-another-you/feed/ 0 There Will Never Be Another You (Vocal Version) nonadult Master the Phrygian Dominant Scale In 12 Keys! A Complete Guide https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/phrygian-dominant-scale/ Wed, 27 Nov 2024 17:02:26 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=196386 The Phrygian dominant scale is an important mode of the harmonic minor scale, and it’s one you should know if you want to improvise over altered dominant chords. We’ll go over everything you need to know about the Phrygian dominant scale, including: By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to tackle minor ii-Vs […]

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]]> Mastering Secondary Dominants: Enhance Your Chord Progressions https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/secondary-dominants/ Mon, 25 Nov 2024 18:58:40 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=196370 Secondary dominants are common compositional devices in all kinds of music, from jazz and classical to rock and blues. However, if you are new to music theory, you might not know what secondary dominants are or how they function. Don’t worry! We will break down secondary dominant chords and how to use them so you […]

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]]> Master Jazz Language And Have It Stick (3 Elements of Jazz) https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/jazz-language/ Fri, 22 Nov 2024 18:14:09 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=35012 If you research jazz music and watch jazz musicians talk about their craft, you’ll encounter the term jazz language. But what does that mean? Jazz, an art form over 100 years old, has developed a unique set of musical attributes that distinguish it from other genres. These musical attributes make jazz sound like jazz and […]

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]]> MASTER THESE 12 MAJOR SCALES FOR JAZZ SUCCESS https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/12-major-scales/ Tue, 29 Oct 2024 16:13:54 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=22361 Major scales contain almost everything you need to understand harmony, melody, and the basics of jazz improvisation. This series of whole and half steps contains the intervallic and chordal relationships found in many jazz standards. Mastering the major scale makes it much easier to memorize chord progressions and create moving, musical melodies when improvising. In […]

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]]> Slash Chords! What Are They & Their 3 Essential Uses https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/slash-chords/ Tue, 29 Oct 2024 14:35:23 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=196317 Were you ever reading along with the chords to your favorite song when you came across a slash chord? Slash chords are used when the composer wants you to play a chord in a specific way. These chords might have different functions depending on the context in which you encounter them. In this article, we’ll […]

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]]> Voice Leading 101: 4 Steps For Smooth Voice Leading In Music https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/voice-leading/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/voice-leading/#respond Wed, 23 Oct 2024 14:12:05 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=56893 Good voice leading is good voice leading, no matter what musical style you like to play! Voice leading is a musical technique found in many Western music traditions, from choral and classical music to jazz and pop music. It isn’t unique to any particular style of music; instead, it’s a sign that the musician has […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/voice-leading/feed/ 0 Dunstable: Quam pulchra es nonadult What A Wonderful World Chords! Learn This Classic Jazz Standard https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/what-a-wonderful-world-chords/ Wed, 16 Oct 2024 18:08:10 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=196289 “What A Wonderful World” is a classic jazz standard and an essential piece of American musical history! In this article, we will learn the “What A Wonderful World Chords” and discover why this song is so timeless. We’ll provide a harmonic analysis and show you how to play each chord in this song! If you […]

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]]> Louis Armstrong - What A Wonderful World (Lyrics) nonadult What’s The Whole Tone Scale? Master the Whole Tone Sound In Your Solos https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/whole-tone-scale/ Tue, 15 Oct 2024 15:51:26 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=196279 The whole tone scale is an important symmetrical scale with many uses for jazz improvisers. These unique-sounding scales can help you add extra spice to your jazz solos if you can use them effectively. In this article, we’ll explore the whole tone scale, learning about its history and how composers and improvisers have used it […]

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]]> Wayne Shorter - Juju nonadult Learn To Play Blue Bossa! Beginner Blue Bossa Chords Lesson https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/blue-bossa-chords/ Fri, 11 Oct 2024 13:55:56 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=196271 “Blue Bossa” is an important jazz standard and a quintessential milestone for any musician interested in learning to play jazz. Equal parts bossa nova and hard bop, Blue Bossa comes from an era of jazz that sought after new sounds and ideas to bring into the tradition. In this article, we’ll learn how to play […]

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]]> Joe Henderson & Kenny Dorham - 1963 - Page One - 01 Blue Bossa nonadult What Are The 30 Best Jazz Albums Of All Time? https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/best-jazz-albums-of-all-time/ Wed, 09 Oct 2024 15:42:18 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=196265 If you are interested in learning jazz, you’ll eventually come to this burning question—what are the best jazz albums of all time? Obviously, the answers to this question depend on many, many factors. However, there are specific jazz albums that everyone interested in jazz needs to hear. We’ve compiled 30 of the best jazz albums […]

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]]> Play a Walking Bass Line Like a Pro in 4 Easy Steps (You Don’t Even Need A Bass) https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/bass/write-walking-bass-line/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/bass/write-walking-bass-line/#respond Fri, 20 Sep 2024 15:25:05 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=41641 Whether you play bass guitar, piano, or guitar (and even when you play a horn), you should know how to construct walking bass lines. The walking bass line is a quintessential feature of jazz, and understanding how to play one will strengthen your understanding of jazz and your ability to compose and improvise on your […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/bass/write-walking-bass-line/feed/ 0 What Is Jazz Music? 6 Reasons Why Jazz Is Important https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/what-is-jazz-music/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/what-is-jazz-music/#respond Wed, 18 Sep 2024 15:53:15 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=39064 What is jazz music? If you’re reading this, it’s probably because you love jazz. Many of us know why we love jazz, even if we can’t always put it into words. Though we might be jazz fans for different reasons, most of us can relate to first discovering and falling in love with jazz music. […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/what-is-jazz-music/feed/ 0 How To Play 7th Chords: 5 Types of 7th Chords on Piano & Guitar https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/play-7th-chords-on-piano-guitar/ Mon, 16 Sep 2024 13:25:08 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=190219 Are you stuck on 7th chords and can't seem to break through? This ultimate guide to 7th chords will help you master jazz harmony.

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]]> 28 Essential Jazz Blues Songs You Need to Know https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/28-jazz-blues-heads-to-learn/ Thu, 12 Sep 2024 16:24:30 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=193479 Learning how to play over a jazz blues is essential for anyone looking to learn how to play jazz. Though jazz blues is often one of the first jazz song forms students learn, it’s a vitally important one that will follow them throughout their respective jazz journey. The concepts you’ll learn through jazz blues songs […]

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]]> 3 Jazz Blues Forms Every Jazz Musician Needs to Know nonadult Moon River Chords: Chord Charts & Analysis and Made Easy https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/moon-river-chords/ Tue, 10 Sep 2024 16:48:56 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=195170 So, you want to learn the Moon River chords! Well, you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll do a chordal analysis of Moon River and break down all its cool compositional devices. Then, after we’re done with all the theory, we’ll look at the tune’s history and why it’s been such a timeless jazz song […]

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]]> Breakfast at Tiffany's (3/9) Movie CLIP - Moon River (1961) HD nonadult 3 Ways To Master The Guitar Fretboard And Have It Stick https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/guitar-fretboard/ Sat, 31 Aug 2024 16:13:40 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=196183 The guitar fretboard doesn’t have to be so mysterious! I remember being utterly baffled and confused by the guitar fretboard layout when I was a younger guitarist. I only knew the narrow paths that pentatonic scales carved out from the wild fretboard jungle. However, in the words of the late Eddie Van Halen, you only […]

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]]> Learn Autumn Leaves Chords (And Many Other Jazz Standards) https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/autumn-leaves-chords/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/autumn-leaves-chords/#respond Fri, 30 Aug 2024 15:04:27 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=54220 One of the most famous jazz standards of all time is Autumn Leaves by Joseph Kosma, and if you want to learn Autumn Leaves chords, this post is for you. Autumn Leaves is an excellent jazz standard because it covers some basic chord progressions and harmonic concepts found throughout jazz. If you can understand how […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/autumn-leaves-chords/feed/ 0 Learn Jazz Standards Blog nonadult The 50 Best Jazz Guitarists of All Time (See Your Favorite?) https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/best-jazz-guitarists/ Fri, 30 Aug 2024 14:56:22 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=196075 Who are the fifty best jazz guitarists of all time? We will explore fifty of the most influential and consequential jazz guitarists of the last 100 years and discuss why every jazz guitarist on this list deserves their spot! If you love jazz guitar and want to take your jazz guitar playing to the next […]

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]]> Django Reinhardt CLIP performing live 1945 nonadult What’s the Locrian Mode? Learn the Locrian Scale in 12 Keys https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/locrian-mode/ Sun, 25 Aug 2024 15:43:58 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=196060 The Locrian mode is one of the seven modes of the major scale. It has a unique sound that stands apart from other scales. This article will explore why and teach you how to play this scale in all 12 keys! We’ll explore it on guitar and piano and discuss how to use it in […]

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]]> 6 Bossa Nova Chord Progressions You Need to Know! https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/bossa-nova-chord-progressions/ Fri, 23 Aug 2024 13:35:55 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=195237 If you want to play Bossa Nova music, you must know some Bossa Nova chord progressions! However, Bossa Nova music is way more than harmony! To get a feel for Bossa Nova and Brazilian music generally, you’ll need to learn about Brazil’s rich rhythmic tradition and the key composers who fused jazz harmony with traditional […]

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]]> Black Orpheus nonadult Ultimate Guide to Jazz Theory: 4 Steps To Master Jazz Harmony and Jazz Improvisation https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/ultimate-guide-to-jazz-theory/ Wed, 21 Aug 2024 13:29:55 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=168894 You don’t need to know much about jazz theory to learn how to play jazz. This is one of the biggest misconceptions jazz-curious musicians have. Many of the deeper jazz theory concepts develop naturally after you’ve been listening to and playing jazz music for a little bit. To get the train rolling with jazz improvisation, […]

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]]> ONLY Scales You NEED to Know for Jazz nonadult What Are the Top 25 Duke Ellington Songs You Need To Know? https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/duke-ellington-songs/ Mon, 05 Aug 2024 16:34:15 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=195988 If you are interested in jazz music, you will inevitably encounter Duke Ellington’s songs. Duke Ellington wrote a significant percentage of the jazz standards we know and love. He is up there with Cole Porter and George Gershwin regarding sheer influence and output! We’ve prepared this list of the 25 best Duke Ellington songs to […]

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]]> Duke Ellington and his Orchestra - Take The A Train (1962) [official video] nonadult Major & Minor Piano Scales in 12 Keys With Fingerings! https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/piano-scales/ Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:58:23 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=195970 If you are an aspiring jazz pianist, you’ll need to master basic piano scales! Learning major and minor scales on the piano will help you improve your improvisation and understand chord-key relationships. As it turns out, many aspects of music theory depend on understanding scales inside and out. Luckily, we’ve compiled all the piano scales […]

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]]> Who Are The 50 Best Jazz Pianists Of All Time? https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/best-jazz-pianists/ Fri, 26 Jul 2024 16:03:52 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=195866 Jazz music and piano go hand-in-hand! You can’t talk about great jazz musicians without mentioning several jazz pianists. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the greatest jazz pianists of all time! We’ll explore the best jazz pianists from all eras—from the early jazz of the 1920s to contemporary jazz—and discuss why these virtuosic pianists […]

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]]> ART TATUM LIVE [EXTREMELY RARE FOOTAGE] nonadult Diminished Scales: Everything You Need to Know https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/diminished-scales/ Mon, 22 Jul 2024 16:12:38 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=195850 Diminished scales are incredibly useful tools for improvisers and are necessary for jazz musicians to understand! The unique nature of the diminished scale makes it a strong choice when trying to hit certain sounds in your improvisation. However, many musicians don’t take full advantage of everything the diminished scale offers! That’s why I will break […]

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]]> 21 ESSENTIAL ARPEGGIOS TO HELP YOU PLAY BETTER SOLOS https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/arpeggios/ Thu, 18 Jul 2024 15:34:29 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=195106 Arpeggios are an important tool musicians use to outline changes and hit specific chord tones. Learning how to play arpeggios and applying them in creative ways over chord progressions is a skill many jazz musicians strive to accomplish. If you struggle to understand arpeggios and how arpeggiation works, you’re in luck! We will review arpeggios […]

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]]> MASTER RHYTHM CHANGES IN ALL 12 KEYS https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/rhythm-changes-in-all-12-keys/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/rhythm-changes-in-all-12-keys/#respond Wed, 17 Jul 2024 13:52:22 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=5946 Why practice Rhythm Changes? Well, if you want to learn how to play jazz music, you’ll need to understand the essential jazz chord progressions found in this classic song form. In this article, we’ll explore the history of Rhythm Changes and analyze its chord progression. Then we’ll provide a practice plan to help you master […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/rhythm-changes-in-all-12-keys/feed/ 0 What Is Quartal Harmony? Your Easy Guide To Quartal Chords https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/quartal-harmony/ Thu, 27 Jun 2024 18:00:16 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=195805 If you spend enough time listening to and studying jazz, you’ll eventually encounter quartal harmony. Quartal harmony sounds ambiguous, consonant, and more “open” because the constituent intervals within the chords are perfect fourths, not thirds, like in traditional tertiary harmony. Jazz guitarists and pianists often use quartal harmony to infuse their chord progressions with ambiguity […]

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]]> John Coltrane Quartet - Impressions. nonadult The 25 Best Frank Sinatra Songs! Why Frank Sinatra is Timeless. https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/frank-sinatra-songs/ Tue, 25 Jun 2024 20:50:27 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=195737 Frank Sinatra songs are staples of the Great American Songbook. Frank Sinatra is one of those jazz singers who is recognized and celebrated outside of jazz. Not only was this due to his breakthrough success as a Hollywood actor, but also because jazz music was pop music in the 40s and 50s. Today, Frank Sinatra […]

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]]> Fly Me To The Moon (2008 Remastered) nonadult 50 MUST-KNOW JAZZ STANDARDS (LEARN THESE JAZZ STANDARDS FIRST) https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/50-jazz-standards-you-need-to-know/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/50-jazz-standards-you-need-to-know/#respond Mon, 24 Jun 2024 16:09:00 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=23603 There are so many jazz songs out there. When learning jazz, it’s hard to know where to start and which jazz standards are the most important to learn. That’s why… We’ve created this list to help you and other beginner jazz musicians filter out the most important jazz standards to help you improve your jazz […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/50-jazz-standards-you-need-to-know/feed/ 0 All Of Me nonadult 15 Essential Jazz Piano Chords! (Jazz Chords Piano Lesson) https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/15-jazz-piano-chords/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/15-jazz-piano-chords/#respond Fri, 21 Jun 2024 16:03:35 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=24264 One of jazz music’s most prominent characteristics is its rich harmony, and nothing quite captures jazz harmony like jazz piano chords. Unlike many other forms of music, it’s full of intricate chord progressions and full-bodied chords. It can look a little intimidating to an outsider looking in, but anyone with a basic knowledge of chord […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/15-jazz-piano-chords/feed/ 0 Fly Me To The Moon Chords: Learn This Frank Sinatra Song! https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/fly-me-to-the-moon-chords/ Wed, 19 Jun 2024 15:04:50 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=195592 Fly Me To The Moon is an iconic jazz standard made famous by the legendary Frank Sinatra. In this article, we’re going to demystify the Fly Me To The Moon chords so you can play this classic jazz standard just like Frank! First, we’ll learn the chords, and then we’ll analyze the chord progression so […]

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]]> Fly Me To The Moon (2008 Remastered) nonadult The Phrygian Scale! Learn the Phrygian Mode in 12 Keys https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/phrygian-scale/ Thu, 13 Jun 2024 20:38:38 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=195547 The Phrygian scale is a unique-sounding minor scale with certain qualities that set it apart from other minor scales. In this article, we will explore and learn the Phrygian mode in all 12 keys! This beautiful scale is known for its use in Flamenco music and is sometimes called the Spanish minor scale. However, this […]

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]]> WHAT IS A CHORD SUBSTITUTION? 5 ESSENTIAL JAZZ CHORD SUBSTITUTIONS YOU NEED TO KNOW https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/what-is-a-chord-substitution/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/what-is-a-chord-substitution/#respond Fri, 07 Jun 2024 14:44:19 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=44943 Chord substitution is a technique used by improvisers and composers. In this technique, one or more chords in a chord progression are replaced by other, seemingly different chords. This is because some chords share certain qualities with other chords, which make them interchangeable under certain circumstances despite having different root notes and sounding very different. […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/what-is-a-chord-substitution/feed/ 0 Jazz Chord Substitutions Explained nonadult Beginner Jazz Guitar: Start Your Jazz Guitar Journey Here https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/beginner-jazz-guitar/ Thu, 30 May 2024 14:21:12 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=191632 Though you might not believe it yet, there are proven steps you can take to learn jazz guitar, improve your knowledge of jazz theory, and elevate your jazz guitar playing skills to new heights. This beginner jazz guitar course will go over the jazz guitar basics you need to get started! It may seem like […]

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]]> Diatonic Chords You Need To Know (Triads and 7th Chords) https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/diatonic-chords/ Mon, 27 May 2024 14:05:06 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=195368 Diatonic chords are a series of chords built from the major scale (or natural minor scale). These diatonic chords and the chord progressions made from them make up most songs in Western music. Even songs that change keys use the logic of diatonic chords in their chord progressions. In this article, we’ll unravel the logic […]

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]]> JAZZ SCALES! 16 JAZZ SCALES YOU NEED TO KNOW https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/16-important-jazz-scales/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/16-important-jazz-scales/#respond Wed, 22 May 2024 17:33:57 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=19834 If you are starting to study jazz, you might feel overwhelmed by all the different types of scales jazz musicians use when improvising. While it’s true that there are quite a few jazz scales out there, each with its own distinctive sound, there are plenty of similarities and connections between them that make learning and […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/16-important-jazz-scales/feed/ 0 What Are The Modes of the Major Scale? (Modes 101) nonadult WHAT ARE MODES IN MUSIC? 7 MUSIC MODES EXPLAINED https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/what-are-modes-in-music/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/what-are-modes-in-music/#respond Tue, 14 May 2024 15:38:21 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=22855 How often do you ask, “What are modes in music?” Maybe you are new to musical modes, or perhaps you are familiar with them but want to deepen your understanding of them. If either is true, then you will want to read this post. Any music student will eventually encounter modes. A strong command of […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/what-are-modes-in-music/feed/ 0 4 BLUES CHORD PROGRESSIONS TO HELP YOU MASTER THE BLUES https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/blues-chord-progressions/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/blues-chord-progressions/#respond Fri, 10 May 2024 17:09:31 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=39481 Blues is one of jazz’s three key ingredients, and the blues chord progression is one of its most important song forms. So, if you want to understand jazz’s language, you’ll first need to internalize the sounds, rhythms, and colors. And that involves mastering several forms of the blues progression.  In this post, we’ll take a […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/blues-chord-progressions/feed/ 0 Tritone Substitutions Guide: Master Solos Over Tritone Subs https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/tritone-substitution-types/ Fri, 03 May 2024 13:25:33 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=193467 The tritone substitution is a very important harmonic device in jazz music. This technique adds color and tension to your jazz improvisation and spices up jazz harmony while keeping the function of the chord progression intact. If you listen to jazz, you have definitely heard a tritone substitution in action. However, you may not know what […]

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]]> Parallel Minor and Relative Minor! What’s the Difference Between Relative and Parallel Keys? https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/parallel-minor-and-relative-minor/ Wed, 24 Apr 2024 13:03:57 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=195221 Have you ever wondered what the difference between a Parallel minor and a relative minor is? Well, in this article, we’re going to dive deep into what relative minor and parallel minor mean and discuss each relationship in every key! By the end of this article, you’ll be an expert on relative keys and parallel […]

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]]> Modal Interchange in Chord Progressions: How To Use Borrowed Chords https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/modal-interchange/ Mon, 22 Apr 2024 14:30:29 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=195185 Modal interchange is a compositional device that takes basic diatonic chord progressions and pushes them to the next level. If you’ve ever had your face melted by a chord progression but didn’t know exactly what was happening, there’s a good chance you heard modal interchange in action! This article will explore modal interchange and how […]

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]]> Stella By Starlight (Play-Along) nonadult Chord Inversions: Play and Practice Inverted Chords on Guitar and Piano https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/chord-inversions/ Mon, 15 Apr 2024 13:55:33 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=195148 If you are ready to take your chord knowledge to the next level and tackle chord inversions, you’ve come to the right place! We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about inverted chords so that by the end of this article, you’ll learn how to build, cycle through, and voice lead using chord […]

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]]> Learn The Aeolian Scale On Guitar and Piano in 12 Keys https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/aeolian-scale-guitar-piano/ Tue, 02 Apr 2024 17:44:07 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=195045 Did you know that the Aeolian scale and the natural minor scale are actually the same scale? Music theory can sometimes be a little confusing, but we’ll clear the air and help you learn the Aeolian scale (and natural minor scale) in all 12 keys! We’ll also explore why the Aeolian scale is also called […]

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]]> Ear Training Exercises: 3 Steps For A Stronger Ear https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/ear-training-exercises/ Thu, 28 Mar 2024 14:58:42 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=194988 Ear training practice is an essential part of being a musician. Despite knowing this, most musicians are slow to develop ear-training strategies and engage in regular ear-training practice. However, consistent ear training exercises will improve your aural skills, music comprehension, and experiential understanding of music theory. In this article, I’ll make the case for practicing […]

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]]> Use Bebop Scales Like a Pro and Master Chromaticism in Solos https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/use-bebop-scales-like-pro/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/use-bebop-scales-like-pro/#respond Mon, 25 Mar 2024 17:10:11 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=38441 Bebop scales are a staple of jazz vocabulary. If you want to master the jazz language and become a better jazz improviser, you’ll need to practice bebop scales! Luckily, we’ve prepared this primer on bebop scales, where they came from, and how to use them to enrich your jazz playing. We’ll cover bebop scale variations […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/use-bebop-scales-like-pro/feed/ 0 EAR TRAINING: 5 FUNDAMENTAL STEPS TO DEVELOP YOUR MUSICAL EAR https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/ear-training/ear-training-fundamentals/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/ear-training/ear-training-fundamentals/#respond Thu, 21 Mar 2024 17:36:24 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=46755 Regular ear training exercises will help you improve your musicianship skills and bring you one step closer to the improviser’s holy grail—playing exactly what you hear in your head on the spot. With consistent effort, you can use your ear to identify chords and chord progressions, recognize intervals, and understand melodies—all without picking up your […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/ear-training/ear-training-fundamentals/feed/ 0 How to Train Your Ears to Hear Intervals the RIGHT Way nonadult Jazz Scales Guitar Workshop: 20 Essential Jazz Guitar Scales https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/jazz-scales-guitar/ Tue, 12 Mar 2024 17:27:44 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=194835 Ready for a comprehensive jazz scales guitar workshop? I’ve compiled 20 scales essential for learning jazz and jazz vocabulary. We’ll dive into these twenty scales and why they are critical for mastering jazz improvisation on the guitar. We’ll cover— Whether you play straight-ahead jazz, jazz blues, rock, fusion (or any genre), mastering scales on the […]

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]]> LEARN THE HARMONIC MINOR SCALE ON GUITAR AND PIANO (ALL 12 KEYS) https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/harmonic-minor-scale-guitar-piano/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/harmonic-minor-scale-guitar-piano/#respond Thu, 29 Feb 2024 20:02:20 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=44306 The harmonic minor scale has a distinctive sound, which makes it a powerful musical choice for jazz improvisers. If you learn how to use the harmonic minor scale and its modes, you’ll be better able to articulate many of the awesome altered sounds found throughout jazz music. Even if you don’t play jazz, the harmonic […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/harmonic-minor-scale-guitar-piano/feed/ 0 The Lydian Scale on Guitar and Piano (Unlock Improv Success) https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/lydian-scale-guitar-piano/ Wed, 28 Feb 2024 17:25:33 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=194718 The Lydian scale is a beautiful-sounding variation on the major scale with specific improvisation uses. In this article, we’ll explore the Lydian scale and learn why it is unique. We’ll cover— Be sure to listen to the audio examples of the Lydian scales listed below! Also, if you are trying to improve your jazz playing […]

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]]> The Mixolydian Scale On Guitar and Piano (Everything You Need To Know) https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/mixolydian-scale-guitar-piano/ Mon, 26 Feb 2024 15:30:12 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=194699 The Mixolydian scale is not only an important tool in your improvisational toolbox, but it’s also an important demonstration of functional harmony in action. That’s why understanding how and why the Mixolydian mode works the way it does is crucial for mastering improvisation. Luckily, we’ve prepared this detailed overview of the Mixolydian scale to help […]

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]]> CAGED SYSTEM SCALES FOR GUITAR (BECOME A CAGED SYSTEM GUITAR MASTER) https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/caged-system-scales-for-guitar/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/caged-system-scales-for-guitar/#respond Fri, 02 Feb 2024 15:04:42 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=1499 Guitar players have it hard, but systems like the CAGED system scales can help you understand the guitar fretboard maze! You’ll become a more competent guitar player by memorizing the CAGED system, which associates major scale patterns with basic open chord shapes. In this article, we’ll explore the CAGED system and how it relates to […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/caged-system-scales-for-guitar/feed/ 0 10 Jazz Guitar Licks To Supercharge Your Jazz Guitar Solos https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/jazz-guitar-licks/ Fri, 19 Jan 2024 21:16:31 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=194429 Jazz guitar licks are a great way to learn and apply improvisational concepts. However, when learning jazz guitar licks, you should understand how and why they work. Simply memorizing shapes on the neck will only take you so far. If you want to master jazz improvisation on guitar, you’ll want to know exactly why something […]

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]]> Play A Jazz Guitar Chord Melody in 3 Steps https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/guitar-chord-melody/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/guitar-chord-melody/#respond Thu, 11 Jan 2024 17:00:13 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=188117 Nothing says jazz guitar quite like the chord melody. Mastering chord melody arrangements of jazz standards vastly improves your musicianship and teaches you to compose, arrange, and improvise at a higher level than with single-note solos or chords alone. Chord melodies take chordal and melodic improvisation and fuse them into an all-in-one performance. This post […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/guitar-chord-melody/feed/ 0 Learn Jazz Standards Blog adult Jazz Improvisation Crash Course: 3 Steps To Master Jazz Improvisation https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/jazz-improvisation-made-simple/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/jazz-improvisation-made-simple/#respond Fri, 29 Dec 2023 14:57:56 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=65226 Mastering jazz improvisation is the holy grail for many aspiring jazz musicians. We all want to become better jazz improvisers and take our jazz improvisation skills to the next level, but many musicians aren’t sure how to improve their jazz chops. You may relate to one or more of the following problems: Listen, I get […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/jazz-improvisation-made-simple/feed/ 0 5 Myths About Learning to Play Jazz nonadult Melodic Minor Modes: Enhance Your Improv With These 7 Modes https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/melodic-minor-modes/ Wed, 27 Dec 2023 17:22:26 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=193511 The melodic minor scale is one of the most essential and valuable scales you can master. To truly master this useful jazz scale, you have to learn the melodic minor modes! Yes, you should know your major scale and its modes, but the major scale and other derived scales, like the natural minor scale, don’t […]

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]]> Master the Diminished Triad on the Guitar and Infuse Your Playing With the Diminished Sound https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/diminished-triad-shapes-guitar/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/diminished-triad-shapes-guitar/#respond Fri, 22 Dec 2023 15:55:00 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=21124 The diminished triad is an essential part of functional harmony! Without it, you wouldn’t have diatonic chord progressions or dominant chords. Mastering the diminished triad is necessary to become the best jazz musician you can be. Luckily, we’ve prepared this article covering everything you need to know! We’ll cover what the diminished triad is, its […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/diminished-triad-shapes-guitar/feed/ 0 Why Is Jazz Important? Here’s Why Jazz Music Matters https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/why-is-jazz-important/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/why-is-jazz-important/#respond Wed, 20 Dec 2023 13:36:58 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=29100 Why is jazz important? Many studies have shown the benefits of music and music education in schools. Research shows that learning music helps develop many non-music-related skills and important brain functions. We know that music matters, but why does jazz music matter? That’s exactly what we’ll be discussing today! Jazz music is more than a genre or something […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/why-is-jazz-important/feed/ 0 On The Importance Of Jazz nonadult How to Learn Jazz Standards In 3 Easy Steps https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/how-to-learn-jazz-standards/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/how-to-learn-jazz-standards/#respond Fri, 01 Dec 2023 16:41:13 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=47115 I get emails quite often from our readers and podcast listeners who come to Learn Jazz Standards looking for answers. They want to become jazz musicians. In fact, just about all of our jazz community members are here for this reason, and I imagine you are in the same boat. While everyone comes from different […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/how-to-learn-jazz-standards/feed/ 0 The Altered Scale In Jazz: How To Get That Altered Sound In Your Jazz Solos https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/altered-scale-in-solos/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/altered-scale-in-solos/#respond Fri, 01 Dec 2023 16:29:59 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=28175 If you want to improve your jazz soloing and incorporate the altered sound into your playing, you’ll need to learn how to use the altered scale! The altered scale works well over certain dominant chords, but it doesn’t work over others. Do you know why? Understanding the music theory behind why the altered scale works […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/altered-scale-in-solos/feed/ 0 Developing Your Hi-Hat Cymbal Technique: 3 Coordination Exercises to Free Your Left Foot https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/drums/hi-hat-cymbal-technique/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/drums/hi-hat-cymbal-technique/#respond Tue, 21 Nov 2023 14:41:09 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=63203 In contemporary jazz, every jazz drummer must have jazz comping chops on the hi-hat cymbals. Though quality hi-hat chops are an important element of well-rounded jazz drumming, other music genres don’t emphasize left-foot improvisational technique. If you are coming to jazz from other genres like rock or funk, you’ll need to develop your hi-hat cymbal […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/drums/hi-hat-cymbal-technique/feed/ 0 15 Jazz Ballads You Need To Know (And Why Learning Jazz Ballads Is Important) https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/15-jazz-ballads/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/15-jazz-ballads/#respond Tue, 21 Nov 2023 14:16:29 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=34845 Learning jazz ballads is an essential part of learning the language of jazz. There are many reasons why you should focus some of your practice time on learning the art of the jazz ballad. Not only do jazz ballads make for beautiful and passionate musical experiences, but they are way more challenging to play than […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/15-jazz-ballads/feed/ 0 Double Sharp! Double Flat! Where Do They Come From? https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/where-do-double-sharps-and-double-flats-come-from/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/where-do-double-sharps-and-double-flats-come-from/#respond Mon, 20 Nov 2023 15:38:48 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=28779 You may not know what to do the first time you encounter a double sharp or a double flat in the wild! Don’t panic! In this post, we’ll talk about what double sharps and double flats are and where they come from to help make your encounters with them more bearable. At first, they may […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/where-do-double-sharps-and-double-flats-come-from/feed/ 0 Bach: WTC1 No. 3 in C sharp major BWV 848 (Richter) nonadult Master Major Triads On The Guitar To Unlock Jazz Success https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/major-triads-guitar/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/major-triads-guitar/#respond Thu, 16 Nov 2023 21:58:22 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=20704 Many beginner and intermediate jazz players want to skip learning major triads and jump right to bigger, juicer chords. However, skipping out on thoroughly learning major and minor triads all over the fretboard will compromise your jazz knowledge and guitar-playing abilities! Seriously, learning triads will make everything else easier! From improvisation and comping chords to […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/major-triads-guitar/feed/ 0 Master The Minor Triad All Over The Guitar Fretboard https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/minor-triads-guitar/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/minor-triads-guitar/#respond Thu, 16 Nov 2023 21:46:21 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=20905 Your journey toward fretboard mastery won’t be complete until you’ve mastered the minor triad! By mastering both major and minor triads on the fretboard, you’ll— This post will focus on minor triads. We’ll discuss the minor triad in music theory, how to construct minor triads in all inversions, how minor triads lay over the fretboard, […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/minor-triads-guitar/feed/ 0 Musical Scales: Make Scale Practice More Fun and Engaging In 4 Steps! https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/musical-scales/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/musical-scales/#respond Wed, 15 Nov 2023 20:32:13 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=55074 Practicing scales is vital to developing your musicianship, but running the same scales in the same way day in and day out can get boring fast. Don’t fret—we have a solution! In this article, we’ll discuss several ways to practice musical scales that are more engaging, rewarding, and challenging than you might be used to. […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/musical-scales/feed/ 0 Major 7th Chord: Mastering Maj7 Chord Theory And Guitar Voicings https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/major-7th-chord-guitar/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/major-7th-chord-guitar/#respond Wed, 15 Nov 2023 20:05:11 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=21292 To learn jazz guitar, you’ll need to understand seventh chords conceptually and memorize their shapes on the fretboard. When learning seventh chords, the best place to start is the major seventh chord. This post will break down everything you need to know about major seventh chords in music theory and practice on the guitar. We’ll […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/major-7th-chord-guitar/feed/ 0 3 Dominant 7th Chord Types All Jazz Musicians Encounter https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/dominant-7th-chord-types/ Thu, 26 Oct 2023 08:07:26 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=193514 Anyone who has played jazz or leafed through a jazz fakebook or “real book” probably has noticed that the dominant 7th chord is one of the most common chords musicians encounter in jazz standards. However, not all dominant seventh chords have the same upper structures or functions. What a jazz musician plays over a dominant […]

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]]> Mastering Polyrhythms: 3 Polyrhythmic Exercises Every Jazz Musician Should Know https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/rhythm/3-polyrhythms-exercises/ Thu, 26 Oct 2023 04:15:00 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=193501 Why should you practice polyrhythms? Well, rhythm is one of the most important aspects of jazz. To take your playing to the next level, you must constantly challenge yourself to improve the rhythmic aspects of your playing. One way to get better at playing the rhythms and syncopations often found in jazz is to practice […]

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]]> Mastering The Half-Diminished Chord On Guitar (With Chord Charts!) https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/half-diminished-chord-guitar/ Wed, 25 Oct 2023 23:56:00 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=193455 If you are new to jazz guitar, one chord you’ll want to learn ASAP is the half-diminished chord (also known to jazz musicians as the -7b5 chord). This minor chord is widely used in jazz music and is an important chord in diatonic harmony. In this post, we will dive into the half-diminished seventh chord, […]

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]]> Jazz Saxophone: A Beginner’s Guide for Jazz Saxophonists https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/intro-jazz-saxophone/ Tue, 25 Jul 2023 16:51:41 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=191686 No matter what instrument you play, there are fundamental aspects of jazz that every jazz musician needs to practice. However, there are also instrument-specific things you need to focus on to master jazz on your particular instrument. All of these different aspects might seem overwhelming, but with the right bite-by-bite approach, you can make massive […]

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]]> Ear Training Chord Progressions: How To Identify Chords By Ear In 4 Steps https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/ear-training/ear-training-chord-progressions/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/ear-training/ear-training-chord-progressions/#respond Tue, 18 Jul 2023 16:07:53 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=1434 Two of the freedoms we yearn for as musicians are recognizing chord progressions on the spot and understanding songs by ear. Being shackled by reliance on sheet music can be draining, especially in styles of music like jazz which are based on improvisation. We all want to get to the level where we can hear […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/ear-training/ear-training-chord-progressions/feed/ 0 How to Build Chord Extensions and Alterations (And Become a Better Jazz Improviser) https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/chord-extensions-alterations/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/chord-extensions-alterations/#respond Fri, 14 Jul 2023 13:34:28 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=29947 Have you ever read a lead sheet or chord chart and encountered some crazy symbol built into the chord progression? If crazy chord symbols are getting in your way and keeping you from learning about jazz harmony, then this post is for you! In this post, we’ll review everything you need to know about chord […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/chord-extensions-alterations/feed/ 0 5 Essential Jazz Rhythms to Improve Your Rhythmic Precision and Feel https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/rhythm/5-jazz-rhythms-to-improve-rhythmic-precision-and-feel/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/rhythm/5-jazz-rhythms-to-improve-rhythmic-precision-and-feel/#respond Fri, 30 Jun 2023 14:06:10 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=54991 When we are first learning a musical instrument, we usually want to focus on the cool stuff. We want to show off to our peers how good we are getting by playing patterns that have syncopated jazz rhythms and a whole lot of notes. In the process, we overlook the fundamental factors that separate beginner […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/rhythm/5-jazz-rhythms-to-improve-rhythmic-precision-and-feel/feed/ 0 Giants steps solo by a Robot! nonadult Lead Sheet Jazz Tutorial: How To Create Lead Sheets (And When You Should and Shouldn’t Use Them) https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/how-to-write-out-a-lead-sheet-jazz/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/how-to-write-out-a-lead-sheet-jazz/#respond Thu, 15 Jun 2023 16:02:51 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=23966 Ah, the lead sheet. Jazz musicians everywhere are familiar with the lead sheet. Lead sheets are no doubt useful tools for communicating the basic elements of a jazz tune or an original composition. In this sense, lead sheets help make the music easy to pick up, play, and share. Charting out the harmony and melody […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/how-to-write-out-a-lead-sheet-jazz/feed/ 0 When To Use iReal Pro To Learn Jazz https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/video/when-to-use-ireal-pro-to-learn-jazz/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/video/when-to-use-ireal-pro-to-learn-jazz/#respond Fri, 02 Jun 2023 15:53:44 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=184687 5 Ways iReal Pro Will Help You Learn To Play Jazz (And 4 Ways It Won’t) For many jazz students, a tool like iReal Pro can be a game-changer. But knowing when and how to use it is just as crucial as having it in your toolkit. It’s easy to become too dependent on it, […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/video/when-to-use-ireal-pro-to-learn-jazz/feed/ 0 Learn Jazz Standards Blog adult 20 Easy Jazz Standards You Need To Know To Start Learning Jazz https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/20-easy-jazz-standards/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/20-easy-jazz-standards/#respond Fri, 12 May 2023 19:07:16 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=24038 If you want to learn how to play jazz, you will need to learn jazz standards. Period. The jazz language is built around the harmonies, melodies, and rhythms of jazz standards. So, to truly get the hang of jazz, you’ll need to get comfortable with the common chord progressions found throughout jazz tunes. I know […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/20-easy-jazz-standards/feed/ 0 First 3 Jazz Standards You Need To Learn nonadult How To Get Into Jazz: A 5-Step Beginners Guide https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/how-to-get-into-jazz/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/how-to-get-into-jazz/#respond Fri, 21 Apr 2023 19:45:14 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=32000 Okay, so you want to know how to get into jazz but don’t know where to start. That’s okay—this post will help you break through and dive deep into the jazz world! Learning jazz, playing jazz, and listening to jazz music is a very rewarding experience. Once you get your foot in the door, you’ll […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/how-to-get-into-jazz/feed/ 0 The ONLY Jazz Standards You Need to Know nonadult 9 Jazz Waltz Tunes You Should Know https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/9-jazz-waltzes/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/9-jazz-waltzes/#respond Mon, 20 Mar 2023 23:18:45 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=36082 So, what’s important about the jazz waltz? Well, there are several reasons why learning jazz waltzes are crucial for your musical development. Whether you play the piano, the trumpet, the guitar, or drum set, you are going to want to study the jazz waltz for the following reasons⁠— Is playing in odd time a challenge […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/9-jazz-waltzes/feed/ 0 28 Jazz Blues Heads You Need to Know [UPDATED] https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/28-jazz-blues-heads-you-need-to-know/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/28-jazz-blues-heads-you-need-to-know/#respond Wed, 16 Oct 2019 06:40:20 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=28863 The blues has always played a central role in jazz music from the very beginning and is without a doubt one of the most important forms in jazz. It’s important for every jazz musician to know a good handful of blues heads, and even variations on the typical 12 bar form. The blues has so […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/28-jazz-blues-heads-you-need-to-know/feed/ 0 3 Jazz Blues Forms Every Jazz Musician Needs to Know nonadult Using the Bebop Scale on Days of Wine and Roses https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-licks/using-the-bebop-scale-on-days-of-wine-and-roses/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-licks/using-the-bebop-scale-on-days-of-wine-and-roses/#respond Wed, 01 May 2019 14:09:41 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=81777 Days of Wine and Roses is a bittersweet tune with heart-wrenching lyrics about nostalgia and the fleeting nature of happiness and youth. It was written by American film and popular song composer Henry Mancini for the 1962 movie of the same name. Many jazz musicians have since performed and recorded the song, and now “Days […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-licks/using-the-bebop-scale-on-days-of-wine-and-roses/feed/ 0 2 Jazz Improv Concepts and an Etude Over “Solar” https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/2-jazz-improv-concepts-and-an-etude-over-solar/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/2-jazz-improv-concepts-and-an-etude-over-solar/#respond Wed, 03 Apr 2019 13:57:18 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=81771 “Solar” is a jazz standard written by one of the most famous jazz musicians of all time, trumpeter Miles Davis. The best-known Miles recording of “Solar” is probably from his iconic 1957 Prestige album Walkin’. Miles typically receives compositional credit for this song even though there is an ongoing debate over the true authorship of […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/2-jazz-improv-concepts-and-an-etude-over-solar/feed/ 0 Double Your Scale Practicing Efficiency with this Bebop-Diminished Pattern https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/double-your-scale-practicing-efficiency-with-this-bebop-diminished-pattern/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/double-your-scale-practicing-efficiency-with-this-bebop-diminished-pattern/#respond Wed, 13 Mar 2019 12:00:45 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=78883 All musicians must practice scales at some point in their musical development. Scales are some of the most fundamental building blocks of Western styles of music, including jazz. As musicians, indeed we’re often told how important it is to practice scales and how useful they are for helping us navigate jazz standards. But too often […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/double-your-scale-practicing-efficiency-with-this-bebop-diminished-pattern/feed/ 0 3 Lessons I Learned From Ornette Coleman’s “Lonely Woman” https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/3-lessons-i-learned-from-ornette-colemans-lonely-woman/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/3-lessons-i-learned-from-ornette-colemans-lonely-woman/#respond Tue, 05 Mar 2019 15:06:17 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=75837 Though it is practically a cliché in the jazz world today, it is nonetheless true to remark that 1959 was a profoundly significant year in jazz history. In an astonishing creative outpouring, at least five seminal jazz recordings were created and released at the close of the 1950s, all of which suggested intriguing and contrasting […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/3-lessons-i-learned-from-ornette-colemans-lonely-woman/feed/ 0 Hexatonic/Pentatonic Jazz Improvisation Workout https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/hexatonic-pentatonic-jazz-improvisation-workout/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/hexatonic-pentatonic-jazz-improvisation-workout/#respond Wed, 13 Feb 2019 16:12:27 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=75830 We’ve talked about pentatonics on LJS in the past both on the blog and on the podcast. In this post, I want to build on the concepts surrounding pentatonic scales and talk about a useful hexatonic, or 6-note, scale. After introducing the hexatonic scale, I’ve included a 1-chorus pentatonic/hexatonic workout over the chord changes to […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/hexatonic-pentatonic-jazz-improvisation-workout/feed/ 0 3 Rhythm Changes Strategies from John Coltrane on Oleo https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/3-rhythm-changes-strategies-from-john-coltrane-on-oleo/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/3-rhythm-changes-strategies-from-john-coltrane-on-oleo/#respond Wed, 06 Feb 2019 15:14:46 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=78204 In the 1950’s, Miles Davis released a series of iconic recordings of jazz standards with his “first great quintet,” which, in its most classic format, featured Miles on trumpet, John Coltrane on tenor saxophone, Red Garland on piano, Paul Chambers on bass, and “Philly” Joe Jones. Miles rapidly released a series of classic albums in […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/3-rhythm-changes-strategies-from-john-coltrane-on-oleo/feed/ 0 Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Red Garland, Paul Chambers, Phily Joe Jones - Oleo nonadult Combining Rate Shift and Odd Groupings to Spice Up Your Rhythms https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/rhythm/combining-rate-shift-and-odd-groupings-to-spice-up-your-rhythms/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/rhythm/combining-rate-shift-and-odd-groupings-to-spice-up-your-rhythms/#respond Wed, 30 Jan 2019 16:10:42 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=76606 There are many ways to make your solos more interesting utilizing rhythm. In previous lessons, Using Rests and Odd Groupings to Spice Up Your Rhythms and Accents and Odd Groupings: 12 Exercises to Spice Up Your Rhythms, I laid down the basic concept behind some of the exercises I talk about in this lesson. I would […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/rhythm/combining-rate-shift-and-odd-groupings-to-spice-up-your-rhythms/feed/ 0 3 Altered Licks All Jazz Musicians Should Know https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/3-altered-licks-all-jazz-musicians-should-know/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/3-altered-licks-all-jazz-musicians-should-know/#respond Wed, 23 Jan 2019 15:26:36 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=70898 There are some melodic lines that are so iconic that, despite my outspoken general opposition to the idea of “lick playing,” I believe every jazz musician should practice and memorize them in all 12 keys. Once they’ve been internalized, they can be used as core melodic ideas that improvisers can use as starting points. Then […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/3-altered-licks-all-jazz-musicians-should-know/feed/ 0 How to Use Altered Pentatonics https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/how-to-use-altered-pentatonics/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/how-to-use-altered-pentatonics/#respond Wed, 16 Jan 2019 14:15:38 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=72476 I’ve discussed the major pentatonic scale here on LJS before and some of its uses. In this post I want to briefly review the major pentatonic scale and then talk about what I call altered pentatonic scales. Pentatonic scales are useful because they allow you to focus your melodic improvisation by whittling your note choice […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/how-to-use-altered-pentatonics/feed/ 0 Trading Fours Like Elvin Jones: Style And Analysis https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/drums/trading-fours-like-elvin-jones-style-and-analysis/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/drums/trading-fours-like-elvin-jones-style-and-analysis/#respond Wed, 09 Jan 2019 15:25:02 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=70950 A few months ago, I shared with you a lesson on Elvin Jones, entitled How To Comp On The Drums Like Elvin Jones, in which I discussed the comping side of the great late Elvin Jones’ playing. If you have not checked it out, I recommend you do so before moving forward; they are highly related. […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/drums/trading-fours-like-elvin-jones-style-and-analysis/feed/ 0 Anthropology nonadult How to Improvise Over “Inner Urge” https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/how-to-improvise-over-inner-urge/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/how-to-improvise-over-inner-urge/#respond Wed, 12 Dec 2018 15:13:04 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=72450 Joe Henderson’s “Inner Urge” from his iconic 1965 record also entitled Inner Urge is one of the most frequently called tunes at jam sessions when jazz musicians want to play a fast and challenging song. It’s a good tune to know because it’s one of the testing-ground tunes that more advanced musicians call to challenge […]

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]]> https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-theory/how-to-improvise-over-inner-urge/feed/ 0 How to Practice Walking Bass Lines for All Jazz Instrumentalists https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/how-to-practice-walking-bass-lines-for-all-jazz-instrumentalists/ https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/blog/learning-jazz/jazz-advice/how-to-practice-walking-bass-lines-for-all-jazz-instrumentalists/#respond Wed, 05 Dec 2018 16:07:01 +0000 https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/?p=70882 Here on Learn Jazz Standards, there are a few great posts on walking bass lines for bass players: How to Keep Your Bass Lines Interesting and How to Write a Walking Bass Line. In this post, I want to take abstract concepts about how bass lines are constructed and use them to create practical exercises that […]

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