Lessons

II-V-I Lick exercise 1

This is an introduction to how we can use exercises to improve our improvisation. Here I will discuss a II-V-I lick that I created. This will also be developed into a III-VI-II-V-I.

II-V-I Lick exercise 2,3,4

In this tutorial, we will build on what we learned in the previous lesson. We will develop the previous exercise and introduce 2 new exercises.

Walking Bass part 1

Here is our first endevour into technique. This will give you the tools you need to start playing a walking bass in your left hand.

Walking Bass part 2

In this tutorial, we will start to build some hand independence. You will be building on when you learned in the previous video by adding melody and improvisation in the right hand.

Hank Mobley - “Remember” Transcription

I always look to Hank Mobley for clear and digestible jazz language which clearly outlines the chords. In this tune, Mobley gluides through the changes.

Jackson Mathod - “So Cold” Transcription

Here is one of my favourite transcriptions of 2024. Here you can see me perform the transcription in full and break down some of the key aspects of the composition. I have also created a fun exercise from one of Jackson’s phrases.

Chet Baker - “But Not For Me” Transcription

Is this Chet Baker’s best recording? I consider it at least one of the most memorable due to its “singable” qualities. In this tutorial you will find a performance, a harmonic breakdown and a comentary.

Oscar Peterson - “You Look Good To Me”

Here you will find my transcription of the first chorus of Oscar Peterson’s solo on this live performance of “You Look Good To Me”.

Soweto Kinch - “Help”

This solo left me speechless when I first heard it. Here you can here my performance of Soweto Kinch’s solo on “Help” from his album “The New Emancipation”.

Kevin Hays Exercise

Here I will share a glorius technical exercise with you, which will help develop your grasp of triadic shapes in each key centre.

Drop-2

Have you ever heard of “drop-2”? In this tutorial I will lay out the basics and provide some tips on how to start using drop-2 and similar harmonic techniques in your playing.

Hanon in the 21st Century

This is one of the most commonly played and taught technical exercises but does it still have a valid application in the 21st Century?