Jazz piano 4

What is the course about?

Learn to play jazz standards with demanding harmonic, rhythmic and melodic issues. Consolidate and develop the work covered in Jazz piano 3. Improvise and accompany ("comp") with greater confidence and skill.

What will we cover?

- The role of the piano in a rhythm section, and as a solo instrument
- Study standard tunes that include minor/altered harmony, substitution of dominant chords, and modal harmony
- Developing your ability to improvise on the study tunes
- Left hand chords practice
- Playing together effectively in class.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Improve your sense of time, and rhythmic security
- Build confidence to play in public
- Read charts effectively; memorise tunes and harmonic sequences
- Expand your repertoire of tunes
- 'Comp' as part of a rhythm section
- Build and play solos
- Become a reliable accompanist
- navigate a lead sheet efficiently.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

You should have successfully completed jazz piano 3, and have playing experience that has given you confidence and know-how in the use of scales and modes, patterns, swing & latin rhythms, common jazz chord progressions, efficient chord voicing.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

There will be tutorial input on aural and theoretical matters, and demonstration at the piano. With everyone at a digital piano, we can play together in class, and solo.You will also be encouraged to submit recordings of your playing.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Please use manuscript for class notes. All course materials will be supplied for class and posted in the google classroom.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

You can progress to jazz piano advanced, jazz harmony & ear training study, and Transcibe jazz solos.