Learn Jazz Standards Podcast artwork

Learn Jazz Standards Podcast

803 episodes - English - Latest episode: 6 days ago - ★★★★★ - 429 ratings

The LJS Podcast is the podcast where you get weekly jazz tips, interviews, stories and advice for becoming a better jazz musician! Hosting the show is the jazz musician behind learnjazzstandards.com, author, and entrepreneur Brent Vaartstra, who’s one goal is to answer any question about playing jazz music you may have. Jazz can be a challenging music to learn and play, but it doesn’t have to be so hard. Each episode features a specific musical challenge that jazz students may come across, where it is discussed and answered. Special jazz guests frequent the show, sharing their expertise on an array of different musical subject matter. Listeners are invited to call in with their jazz questions to the podcast hotline, where it could get answered on a future LJS Podcast episode. Join thousands of other listeners getting free jazz education every week!

Music Commentary Music Education How To jazz jazz standards jazz improvisation jazz theory jazz solo jazz guitar jazz piano jazz saxophone jazz bass jazz trumpet
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Episodes

What Makes You Happy As a Musician?

April 19, 2024 12:00 - 11 minutes - 8.07 MB

In this Fast Track Friday episode of the Learn Jazz Standards podcast, Brent discusses the critical importance of finding joy and happiness as a musician. Drawing on personal experiences and insights, he explores the detrimental effects of self-doubt and dissatisfaction on musical growth and fulfillment. Through thought-provoking questions and practical suggestions, Brent invites listeners to explore the sources of happiness in their musical pursuits, whether through enjoyable practice rou...

What's the Difference Between a Scale Tone and a Chord Extension?

April 18, 2024 12:00 - 11 minutes - 7.78 MB

In this podcast episode, Brent discusses a fundamental music theory concept brought up by listener Andy Berry regarding the distinctions between scale tones and chord extensions. Brent equips listeners with a deeper understanding of how the elements of different chord extensions shape harmonic structures and contribute to the rich tapestry of jazz music. With his expert guidance, he shares insights on how to navigate the nuances between scale tones and chord extensions. Through engaging exp...

How to Gain Confidence to Play With Other Musicians

April 17, 2024 12:00 - 9 minutes - 6.8 MB

In this episode, Brent addresses a common concern voiced by Cherie Vodica from Raleigh, North Carolina, about regaining confidence in playing with other musicians after spending a significant amount of time practicing alone, particularly due to the isolation brought on by the pandemic. Through insightful advice and practical strategies, Brent offers valuable guidance on overcoming self-doubt and preparing oneself for collaborative musical endeavors. With a blend of empathy and actionable a...

How A Minor 2-5-1 Chord Progression Works

April 16, 2024 12:00 - 12 minutes - 8.65 MB

In this episode, Brent tackles an essential aspect of jazz theory: the minor 2-5-1 chord progression. Responding to a listener's inquiry, Brent provides a comprehensive breakdown of this foundational progression, elucidating its significance and outlining the various chord qualities and extensions commonly employed. By going into the mechanics of the minor 2-5-1 progression, Brent shares practical knowledge and actionable insights to enhance one's understanding of jazz theory and improvisa...

How Do I Overcome Self Doubt As A Musician?

April 15, 2024 12:00 - 10 minutes - 7.37 MB

In this week's episode, Brent discusses a common struggle many musicians face: self-doubt. Through a poignant listener question, he addresses the pervasive nature of self-doubt and shares personal anecdotes, making it evident that even world-class musicians experience this phenomenon. Throughout the episode, Brent offers actionable insights and practical strategies for overcoming self-doubt. By reframing self-doubt as a natural part of the creative process, musicians can cultivate resilien...

The Big Myth About Playing What You Hear

April 12, 2024 12:00 - 8 minutes - 5.99 MB

In this Fast Track Friday episode, Brent revisits the week's episodes and delves deeper into the theme of playing what you hear. He reflects on a recent question posed during one of the Inner Circle's live Q&A sessions, where a member sought advice on the best approach to improvisation. Drawing from personal experiences and expert insights, he navigates the complexities of auditory perception and instrumental fluency, offering listeners invaluable guidance on cultivating a holistic approach ...

The Importance of Muscle Memory and Jazz Improv

April 11, 2024 12:00 - 9 minutes - 6.4 MB

In this episode, Brent discusses an intriguing question posed by listener Alan Kahn regarding the challenge of transitioning to a wind synthesizer from the trumpet and recapturing the ability to play by ear. Alan shares his previous experiences playing trumpet in various musical settings without extensive music theory knowledge, relying solely on his intuitive ability to improvise and captivate audiences. However, upon switching to the wind synthesizer and adapting to saxophone fingering, Al...

How Do I Play What I'm Hearing In My Head?

April 10, 2024 12:00 - 8 minutes - 6.22 MB

In this episode, Brent addresses a crucial question posed by listener Troy West about bridging the gap between auditory imagination and instrumental execution in jazz improvisation. He offers invaluable insights and practical exercises to enhance the connection between what musicians hear in their minds and what they play on their instruments. He begins by discussing the fundamentals of ear training, emphasizing the importance of interval and chord recognition as essential skills for strengt...

Should I Plan Out My Jazz Solos?

April 09, 2024 12:00 - 10 minutes - 6.93 MB

In this episode, Brent answers a thought-provoking question from listener Winfried Wilms about achieving a final version of improvisation. Through a captivating exploration, Brent unpacks the complexities of planning versus improvising in jazz solos. Drawing upon his extensive experience as a jazz musician and educator, he navigates the nuances of preparing for performances while maintaining the essence of improvisation. He emphasizes the importance of balancing structured practice with sp...

Why The Blues Is Important For Jazz?

April 08, 2024 12:00 - 8 minutes - 6.05 MB

In this week's episode, Brent delves into an intriguing question from listener Cliff Bryant: Which came first, the blues or jazz? Through a captivating exploration, Brent unravels the historical and musical connections between these two iconic genres. From the roots of the blues in African American culture to its profound influence on the birth of jazz in early 20th-century New Orleans, Brent paints a vivid picture of the interconnectedness between these musical traditions. Drawing upon hi...

Steal My Jazz Gig Setlist!

April 05, 2024 12:00 - 9 minutes - 6.85 MB

In this Fast Track Friday episode, Brent dives into the intricacies of crafting an effective set list for jazz gigs. With a keen focus on maintaining energy levels and providing variety, he will walk you through an eight-song set list example, offering valuable insights into song selection and sequencing. From upbeat tunes like "My Shining Hour" to soulful ballads like "Misty," each song choice is carefully explained in terms of its impact on the overall vibe and flow of the performance. B...

What Are Jazz Contrafacts and How Are They Useful?

April 04, 2024 12:00 - 9 minutes - 6.88 MB

In this engaging episode, Brent tackles a fascinating question posed by Tiago Leyte about contrafacts and their role in jazz improvisation. Explaining the concept of contrafacts as new melodies crafted over existing chord progressions, Brent shares the benefits of exploring and composing these musical variations. Drawing on examples like rhythm changes and the classic contrafact "Oleo" by Sonny Rollins, he demonstrates how creating original counter-effects can enhance improvisational skills ...

What's the Difference Between a Beginner and Pro Jazz Solo?

April 03, 2024 12:00 - 10 minutes - 7.5 MB

In this episode of the Learn Jazz Standards podcast, Brent addresses a fundamental question posed by Philip Sorge: What distinguishes a beginner jazz soloist from a master jazz soloist?  Exploring the differences in mindset and approach, Brent touches on how beginners often rely on scales and patterns, while seasoned improvisers prioritize spontaneity and a deep connection between ear and instrument. Highlighting the journey from mechanical execution to expressive improvisation, he offer...

How to Create a Setlist for a Jazz Gig

April 02, 2024 12:00 - 8 minutes - 6.14 MB

In this insightful episode, Brent offers valuable insights on crafting the perfect setlist for jazz gigs, drawing from his extensive experience as a seasoned musician. Beginning with the importance of understanding one's role in performance, he discusses tailoring the setlist to suit different venues and atmospheres, whether it be background music for an upscale restaurant or energizing tunes for a lively bar setting. He shares a structured approach and practical advice that contributes to...

How to Improve Rhythm and Syncopation

April 01, 2024 12:00 - 9 minutes - 6.62 MB

In this captivating episode, Brent explores the intricacies of rhythm and syncopation, offering invaluable insights and practical exercises to enhance your musical prowess. Through a listener's inquiry about improving left-hand steadiness while navigating syncopated rhythms in the right hand, Brent expertly breaks down fundamental rhythmic concepts, guiding through various subdivisions and metronome exercises to strengthen their rhythmic foundation. With clear explanations and relatable exa...

My Most Embarrassing Moment Playing Jazz

March 29, 2024 12:00 - 12 minutes - 8.45 MB

In this Fast Track Friday episode, Brent shares a candid and humorous account of his most embarrassing moment playing jazz, offering valuable insights and lessons learned from the experience. Through this relatable anecdote, he underscores the importance of rhythm and time feel in jazz improvisation, emphasizing that impeccable note choices and musical knowledge can be overshadowed by deficiencies in rhythmic proficiency. Drawing from his own journey of improvement, Brent provides practical...

The 3 Steps for Jazz Improvisation

March 28, 2024 12:00 - 12 minutes - 8.72 MB

In this episode, Brent explores the foundational elements of jazz improvisation, answering a compelling question posed by Martin Kendall: Can we establish globally applicable first three steps to jazz improvisation basics? With his trademark enthusiasm and expertise, Brent introduces the concept of the "three pillars of jazz improvisation," offering a comprehensive roadmap to enhance improvisational skills, regardless of whatever instrument one plays. Through engaging examples and insightf...

How Do I Not Forget Jazz Licks I've Learned?

March 27, 2024 12:00 - 11 minutes - 7.84 MB

In this episode, Brent addresses a common concern among jazz musicians: how to effectively internalize and recall jazz licks and patterns for improvisation. Through engaging dialogue and insightful guidance, Brent unveils a transformative approach to learning and incorporating musical vocabulary into one's playing. Drawing from his own experiences and the questions posed by Alain Londes, Brent challenges conventional wisdom, emphasizing that the goal isn't simply to memorize endless licks ...

How Do I Improvise Over Giant Steps?

March 26, 2024 12:00 - 14 minutes - 10.1 MB

In this episode, Brent discusses about the challenging realm of improvisation over John Coltrane's "Giant Steps." With a captivating blend of humor and expertise, he tackles Jeremy's question head-on, exploring strategies to navigate the complexities of this legendary jazz standard. From unraveling the intricate chord progressions to dissecting Coltrane's improvisational techniques, Brent offers invaluable insights aimed at demystifying the daunting task of soloing over "Giant Steps." Bre...

What Are Quartal Voicings and How Do You Use Them?

March 25, 2024 12:00 - 9 minutes - 6.85 MB

In this episode, Brent addresses a question from an Inner Circle member about quartal voicings and their application in chord progressions. Brent breaks down the concept, explaining how they differ from traditional chord voicings by being stacked in fourths rather than thirds. He explores their versatility, emphasizing their common use in modal playing and how they can enhance chord progressions, even in traditional diatonic harmony settings like two-five-one progressions. Throughout the ...

10 Jazz Solos You Should Learn

March 22, 2024 12:00 - 13 minutes - 9.53 MB

Join Brent on another exciting episode for a deep dive into jazz solos worth learning. In this special Fast Track Friday edition, he reflects on the week's episodes and shares invaluable insights into the art of storytelling through jazz improvisation. From Miles Davis's iconic solo on "So What" to Chet Baker's emotive vocal solo on "It Could Happen To You," Brent highlights 10 captivating solos that offer valuable lessons in jazz language and storytelling. Discover the melodic richness of ...

How Do I Tell A Story With My Solo (Not Just Licks)?

March 21, 2024 12:00 - 13 minutes - 9.4 MB

Don't miss today's podcast where Brent answers a question by Anthony, a seasoned music educator who poses a thought-provoking question about developing the ability to create narrative-driven solos rather than relying on pre-learned licks. Brent dives deep into this topic, offering actionable strategies to help musicians of all levels infuse their improvisations with compelling storytelling. From composing your own solos to playing free and practicing motivic development, he provides invalu...

What Software Is Good For Learning Jazz?

March 20, 2024 12:00 - 12 minutes - 8.92 MB

Get ready to unlock the secrets of jazz learning tools and software with Brent on the latest episode of the Learn Jazz Standards podcast. Caitlin, an Inner Circle member, poses a question that resonates with all jazz enthusiasts: What software and tools are helpful for learning and practicing jazz? Brent dives deep into this topic, providing valuable insights and recommendations for musicians of all levels. He emphasizes the importance of leveraging technology to enhance your learning expe...

What Are Drop 2 Voicings and How Are They Useful?

March 19, 2024 12:00 - 13 minutes - 9.18 MB

In this episode, Brent explores the world of jazz voicings. Phil, an Inner Circle member, poses a thought-provoking question about drop two voicings and their relevance across different instruments, sparking an insightful discussion. Brent breaks down the concept of drop two voicings and their practical applications, not only for guitarists but also for horn and piano players. Through clear explanations and musical demonstrations, he reveals how drop two voicings can enhance harmony, creat...

How to Resolve Your Jazz Lines Effectively?

March 18, 2024 12:00 - 12 minutes - 8.67 MB

In this episode, Brent explores the intricacies of resolving licks and lines on chord tones, shedding light on why certain resolutions are more effective than others. Drawing from a listener's question about chord resolutions, he breaks down the importance of targeting specific chord tones like the third and fifth, rather than solely relying on the root note. Through insightful explanations and musical demonstrations, Brent gives guides on how to incorporate these techniques into actual pl...

How to Stay Motivated to Practice

March 15, 2024 12:00 - 15 minutes - 10.7 MB

In this episode, Brent reflects on the theme of motivation in practicing, an aspect crucial for sustained improvement and progress in jazz and music. With insightful commentary drawn from the experiences of Inner Circle members, he explores the various strategies to stay motivated and inspired on the musical journey. From cultivating a supportive community to setting performance goals and embracing quality education resources, Brent offers a holistic approach to keeping the fire alive in you...

How Can Other Instruments Play Pianistically?

March 14, 2024 12:00 - 12 minutes - 8.76 MB

In this episode, Brent answers an intriguing question posed by Ben Collis about playing pianistically, a topic relevant to musicians of all instruments, not just pianists. Brent unravels the concept of playing pianistically, focusing on chord voicings and voice-leading techniques that can enhance musicianship across the board. With insightful commentary and practical examples, he breaks down the essence of pianistic playing, offering valuable insights into chord voicings, voice leading, an...

When Do You Know a Song Well Enough to Perform It?

March 13, 2024 12:00 - 12 minutes - 8.37 MB

In this episode, Brent tackles a common query from Inner Circle member James Abrams: How do you know when you've truly mastered a jazz tune and it's performance-ready? Through insightful commentary and personal anecdotes, Brent dives deep into the nuanced psychology of performance readiness, offering a wealth of practical advice for aspiring jazz musicians. He challenges the notion of ever feeling fully prepared for performance while providing a roadmap for achieving a level of readiness tha...

Should I Learn a Second Instrument? (Pros and Cons)

March 13, 2024 00:00 - 13 minutes - 9.5 MB

In this episode, Brent answers a thought-provoking question posed by an Inner Circle member, Aaron Albrecht: Should musicians consider learning a second instrument to enhance their jazz playing? Brent navigates the complexities of this inquiry by exploring the pros and cons, offering invaluable insights to listeners grappling with similar decisions. Through personal anecdotes and practical analysis, Brent illuminates the potential benefits of diversifying one's musical skill set while also a...

How Do I Avoid Getting Lost In The Form?

March 11, 2024 12:00 - 13 minutes - 9.22 MB

In this week's episode, Brent addresses one of the most common challenges faced by jazz musicians: staying within the form while improvising. Through an insightful listener question, Brent explores practical strategies to overcome this hurdle, emphasizing the importance of preparation and developing a strong sense of rhythm and time. Valuable insights and actionable advice are discussed, as Brent points out the significance of thorough song preparation. He also shares effective practice tec...

How to Prepare For a Jazz Performance

March 08, 2024 13:00 - 15 minutes - 10.6 MB

In this insightful Fast Track Friday episode, Brent discusses the critical topic of preparing for jazz performances, whether it's a gig, a jam session, or any other musical engagement. Reflecting on the themes covered throughout the week, Brent emphasizes the importance of preparation in reducing stage fright, allowing licks to flow organically in solos and mastering jazz jam session etiquette. With a focus on practical strategies, Brent offers a roadmap to navigate the complexities of music...

What Is Good Jazz Jam Session Etiquette?

March 07, 2024 13:00 - 14 minutes - 9.98 MB

In this episode, Brent tackles a common concern for jazz musicians: jam session etiquette. Delving into a question from Monnie Murray about the appropriate duration of solos in a jam session, Brent offers insightful advice for navigating these musical gatherings with confidence and respect. He emphasizes the importance of preparation,  to familiarize oneself with the repertoire of jazz standards likely to be played at the session. Drawing from his own experiences and observations, he provi...

How Do I Deal With Stage Fright?

March 06, 2024 13:00 - 14 minutes - 10.2 MB

In this episode, Brent explores a topic that resonates with every musician: stage fright. With a blend of personal anecdotes and professional advice, Brent navigates the multifaceted nature of performance anxiety, addressing both the fear of playing in front of audiences and the anxiety of performing in front of fellow musicians. Drawing from his own experiences and insights from mental health professionals, he offers practical strategies for managing stage fright, from deep breathing exerci...

How Do I Get Licks To Come Out In My Solos?

March 05, 2024 13:00 - 13 minutes - 9.14 MB

In this episode of the Learn Jazz Standards podcast, Brent tackles a common question: How can jazz musicians seamlessly integrate learned licks into their solos? He breaks down the purpose of learning licks as a means of understanding the jazz language and offers practical strategies for internalizing them effectively. Through insightful analogies and step-by-step guidance, Brent emphasizes the importance of ear training and repetition in mastering jazz vocabulary. By exploring variations ...

How Important Is Reading Music Notation for Jazz?

March 04, 2024 13:00 - 10 minutes - 7.34 MB

In this episode, Brent dives into a thought-provoking question: Is it necessary to read sheet music to learn jazz? Through insightful anecdotes and practical advice, Brent explores the role of sheet music in jazz education and highlights the importance of ear training in mastering the genre. He navigates the nuances of learning music by ear versus reading notation, offering valuable insights for aspiring jazz musicians. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting your jazz journey, t...

Using Composition to Improvise Great Jazz Solos

March 01, 2024 13:00 - 11 minutes - 8.25 MB

In this Fast Track Friday episode of the Learn Jazz Standards podcast, Brent reflects on the week's discussions, focusing on the theme of turning theory into practical musical expression through improvisation. He introduces composition as a powerful tool for jazz musicians to internalize musical language and develop their improvisational skills. By likening composition to slowed-down improvisation, Brent underscores its role in facilitating the creative process and fostering musical growth...

Are Pro Jazz Musicians Actually Improvising?

February 29, 2024 13:00 - 11 minutes - 7.9 MB

In this episode, Brent addresses a question from Jeff, a tenor saxophonist seeking advice on improvisation. Jeff describes himself as a "grinder" who takes time to develop musical ideas for jazz standards, often playing them similarly each time. Brent explains how improvisation is similar to a natural conversation, where familiar phrases and expressions are woven into spontaneous dialogue.  He emphasizes the importance of preparation in becoming a proficient improviser, highlighting techni...

How Do I Know the Real Melody to a Jazz Standard?

February 28, 2024 13:00 - 12 minutes - 8.43 MB

In this episode, Brent tackles a question from an inner circle member named Paul about determining the correct melody when faced with various interpretations of jazz standards.  He emphasizes the importance of learning melodies by ear rather than solely relying on sheet music, as it enhances ear training and allows for a deeper understanding of musical expression. He provides valuable insights into identifying the true melody of a jazz standard, suggesting that for Great American Songbook t...

How Do I Use Triad Pairs?

February 27, 2024 13:00 - 11 minutes - 8.03 MB

In this episode, Brent addresses a question from Chris Hercules about improvising with triads. He begins by explaining the concept of harmonizing triads within a diatonic context. Brent breaks down how different triads can be derived from the scale, providing insights into understanding and utilizing triads effectively.  He then introduces the concept of triad pairs, which involves using two triads generated from a diatonic scale to improvise. He demonstrates how triad pairs can be appli...

Why Diminished Arpeggios Sound Awesome Over Dominant 7ths?

February 26, 2024 13:00 - 11 minutes - 7.68 MB

In this week's episode, Brent answers an intriguing question posed by a podcast listener about using diminished arpeggios over dominant seventh chords. He breaks down the theory behind this concept, explaining how diminished arpeggios can enhance improvisation and add tension and resolution to playing. He demonstrates how to apply this knowledge practically to create exciting new sounds. By exploring the relationship between diminished arpeggios and dominant seventh chords, Brent provides...

The B.A.D Jazz Solo Strategy

February 23, 2024 13:00 - 12 minutes - 8.47 MB

In today's Fast Track Friday episode, Brent unveils the Bad Jazz Solo method, an innovative approach designed to revolutionize your practice routine. The Bad Jazz Solo, represented by the acronym B-A-D, is a strategic tool for self-improvement. Brent walks you through the process, emphasizing the importance of bravery in leaving your ego at the door, taking risks, and embracing mistakes as opportunities for growth. By going into the process, you'll gain invaluable insights into your playin...

What's the Best Way to Learn How to Improvise?

February 22, 2024 13:00 - 11 minutes - 8.21 MB

In this episode, Brent celebrates his birthday by making a simple request. A question from Rob about how to learn improvisation without extensive music theory knowledge is discussed. Brent offers a comprehensive approach to improvisation, beginning with a simple yet effective tool. He underscores the importance of experimentation and gradual improvement, encouraging embracing the process of improvisation. Moreover, he introduces the concept of learning jazz language by dissecting small lic...

What to Do If Your Playing Is Not Improving

February 21, 2024 13:00 - 10 minutes - 7.19 MB

 This podcast episode discusses about the common struggle of feeling stuck in your musical journey and offers actionable advice to reignite your progress. Join Brent as he addresses a question from Inner Circle member Eric about overcoming the feeling of stagnation in your jazz playing. You'll gain valuable insights about recognizing and overcoming obstacles that may be hindering your improvement. Discover the importance of taking breaks, analyzing your practice routine, and identifying ar...

How to Play At Faster Speeds

February 20, 2024 13:00 - 11 minutes - 7.63 MB

Dive into the rhythm and speed of jazz with Brent on this latest podcast!  In this episode, Brent tackles a question from Peter Bowen about developing an impeccable time feel and playing faster without losing your groove. With Brent's expert guidance, you'll uncover the secrets to mastering both the technical and rhythmic aspects of playing at lightning speeds. Discover how to cultivate a solid time feel by practicing with subdivisions and varying tempos, and learn practical exercises to el...

How Can I Play Bebop Solos Without Learning Scales?

February 19, 2024 13:00 - 10 minutes - 7.12 MB

In this podcast episode, Brent is back to tackle another round of jazz music questions. Bernard from Germany asks a crucial question: how can he make his solos sound more like bebop without diving deep into learning all the different bebop scales? Brent dives into the essence of bebop, highlighting its significance as the foundational dialect of jazz. While acknowledging the relevance of bebop scales, he suggests alternative approaches to infusing bebop style into your solos, emphasizing t...

How to Improve Just By Listening to Jazz

February 16, 2024 13:00 - 10 minutes - 7.27 MB

Throughout the week, Brent has been uncovering the secrets of a game-changing concept: mastering jazz without touching your instrument. And now, on this Fast Track Friday episode, he's ready to share his ultimate strategy! Get ready for a sonic adventure as Brent reveals how to dissect jazz recordings like a seasoned pro. Discover the hidden intricacies of your favorite jazz standards by marking their forms and uncovering the rhythmic and harmonic tapestry that lies within. But that's jus...

The Best Jazz Guitar Albums Ever

February 15, 2024 13:00 - 10 minutes - 7.37 MB

In this podcast episode, Brent dives into the realm of jazz guitar albums, offering listeners a curated selection of classics and modern masterpieces. From the pioneering work of Django Reinhardt to the innovative compositions of Kurt Rosenwinkel. Brent provides a diverse range of albums that capture the essence of jazz guitar. He also explores the unique collaboration between Sonny Rollins and guitarist Jim Hall, highlighting its significance in showcasing the guitar's comping capabilitie...

How to Practice Without Your Instrument

February 14, 2024 13:00 - 9 minutes - 6.7 MB

In this episode of the Learn Jazz Standards podcast, Brent tackles a common concern voiced by inner circle member Keith about preparing for gigs or recording sessions when away from one's instrument. Offering practical advice and insights, he discusses the importance of staying connected with music even when not physically practicing.  Brent emphasizes the importance of staying connected with music through active listening as a form of practice, offering practical tips to internalize melod...

How to Use an Altered Dominant Chord

February 13, 2024 13:00 - 11 minutes - 8.07 MB

In this episode of the podcast, Brent delves into the intriguing world of altered dominant seventh chords. From understanding their basic structure to exploring their role in jazz harmony and improvisation, he provides invaluable insights and practical tips to help master this essential aspect of jazz music. This episode promises to demystify altered dominant seventh chords and elevate your understanding of jazz theory and improvisation.  In addition to unraveling the mysteries of altered ...

How to Reharmonize Jazz Standards

February 12, 2024 13:00 - 11 minutes - 7.75 MB

Join Brent on another engaging episode of the podcast, where he dives into the captivating world of reharmonization. From basic concepts like tritone substitution to more advanced techniques like re-composition, Brent provides a crash course in reharmonization strategies that will take your jazz playing to the next level. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting out, this episode promises valuable insights and practical tips to help you feel more confident improvising and have m...