Learn Jazz Standards Podcast

Latest Episodes:

10 Jazz Solos You Should Learn Mar 22, 2024

Show notes

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 Miles Davis's solos on "Freddie Freeloader" and "So What," perfect for beginners looking to delve into jazz improvisation. Explore the bebop brilliance of Charlie Parker's "Now Is The Time" and the thematic approach of Hank Mobley's "Someday My Prince Will Come" solo.
From the rhythmic mastery of Wynton Kelly's "Freddie Freeloader" to the raw emotion of Chet Baker's vocal improvisation, these solos offer a diverse range of styles and techniques for musicians of all levels.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to expand your jazz vocabulary and enhance your improvisational skills!
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast

Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!

How Do I Tell A Story With My Solo (Not Just Licks)? Mar 21, 2024

Show notes

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 invaluable insights to help you break free from the constraints of lick playing and elevate your improvisational skills to new heights.
Join Brent as he shares not only practical techniques but also classic jazz solos that exemplify great storytelling. Tomorrow's Fast Track Friday episode promises to be an enriching exploration of jazz legends who masterfully weave narratives into their improvisations. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your musical journey!
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast

Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!

What Software Is Good For Learning Jazz? Mar 20, 2024

Show notes

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 experience, whether you're transcribing melodies, practicing with backing tracks, or organizing your practice sessions. His thorough exploration covers essential tools like slow downers, backing track software, practice organizers like Audacity, recording apps, and music notation software, offering practical advice to help you level up your jazz skills.
Don't miss out on this enlightening episode packed with actionable tips and recommendations to supercharge your jazz learning journey!
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast

Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!

What Are Drop 2 Voicings and How Are They Useful? Mar 19, 2024

Show notes

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, create melodic possibilities, and add depth to improvisation.
Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting your jazz journey, this episode offers valuable insights into the versatility of drop two voicings and their role in jazz music. Tune in, subscribe, and share the podcast to explore new horizons in jazz playing!
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast

Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!

How to Resolve Your Jazz Lines Effectively? Mar 18, 2024

Show notes

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 playing, offering practical exercises and jazz language insights. Tune in to enhance your improvisational skills and take your jazz playing to the next level.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to transform your practice sessions with focused, effective techniques!
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast

Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!

How to Stay Motivated to Practice Mar 15, 2024

Show notes

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 your practice routine.
Listen as you are treated to a wealth of practical advice and motivational insights, ranging from the importance of remembering one's "why" to the transformative power of engaging with great music. Whether you're seeking to reignite your passion for music or looking for actionable strategies to enhance your practice routine, this episode provides invaluable guidance to help you stay motivated and focused on your musical goals.
Tune in now to discover how to cultivate a mindset of sustained motivation and unlock your full potential as a musician.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast

Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!

How Can Other Instruments Play Pianistically? Mar 14, 2024

Show notes

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, and the nuances of musical expression.
Dive into the comprehensive exploration of pianistic techniques applicable to various instruments, including guitar, saxophone, and trumpet. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a budding enthusiast, this episode provides actionable advice and fresh perspectives to elevate your musical prowess.
Tune in now to discover how to infuse your playing with pianistic flair and unlock new dimensions of musical expression.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast

Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!

When Do You Know a Song Well Enough to Perform It? Mar 13, 2024

Show notes

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 that instills confidence and competence.
Listen as Brent explores the perpetual pursuit of musical excellence, as he unpacks the essential components of performance readiness. With a refreshing blend of realism and encouragement, he empowers musicians to embrace the inherent uncertainty of performance while equipping them with the tools to navigate challenges with confidence.
Tune in to this episode for actionable insights, invaluable tips, and a newfound perspective on the journey to musical mastery.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast

Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!

Should I Learn a Second Instrument? (Pros and Cons) Mar 12, 2024

Show notes

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 acknowledging the inherent challenges and trade-offs involved.
Listen to Brent's journey of self-discovery and musical exploration as he unpacks the multifaceted implications of pursuing proficiency on a second instrument. From unlocking new perspectives and synergies to confronting the inevitable time constraints and sacrifices, Brent provides a nuanced framework for weighing the decision's merits.
With his signature blend of enthusiasm and expertise, he empowers aspiring jazz musicians to make informed choices that align with their goals and aspirations. Tune in to this enlightening episode for actionable advice, compelling anecdotes, and a fresh perspective on the age-old question of whether to embrace a second instrument in the pursuit of musical excellence.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast

Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!

How Do I Avoid Getting Lost In The Form? Mar 11, 2024

Show notes

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 techniques to enhance internal timekeeping skills.
By breaking down complex improvisation challenges into manageable exercises and emphasizing the iterative nature of practice, Brent empowers musicians of all levels to navigate jazz standards with confidence and proficiency and unlock the secrets to mastering improvisation while staying firmly rooted within the song form.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast

Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!