Within a jazz ensemble, the piano plays a uniquely versatile role, functioning both as an accompanist and a soloist. This course explores how pianists can confidently navigate these responsibilities through a deeper understanding of jazz harmony, style, and interaction. Using a combination of music theory, listening to classic and contemporary jazz recordings, and hands-on playing, students will develop practical skills essential to jazz performance.
Topics include:
- Understanding jazz chords, common chord progressions and their variations
- Building a variety of jazz voicings for different musical contexts
- Developing approaches to soloing and comping for other soloists across multiple jazz styles
- Reading and interpreting lead sheets
- Developing fluency in jazz phrasing and improvisation
- Preparation and performances of standard jazz repertoire
Each term will delve progressively deeper into these topics, creating a holistic learning experience across the year. Emphasis is placed on applying these concepts in real musical situations, helping students build confidence, creativity, and versatility at the piano.
Participants should have prior piano experience. This course is ideal for classical pianists interested in learning jazz styles and techniques, as well as for beginning jazz pianists who wish to deepen and refine their existing skills.
Enroll for Fall 6:00 PM (Oct 8-Dec 10, 2026)
Waitlist for Fall 7:00 PM (Sept 17-Dec 10, 2026)
Enroll in Winter (Jan 7-Mar 11, 2027)
Enroll in Spring (Apr 1-Jun 17, 2027)