half diminished chord techniques

How to Not Suck at Half-Diminished Chords

By

Forrest

Chords, Jazz Advice and Tips

For most people, half diminished chords remain a mystery. Also known as minor 7b5 chords, they seem to fall by the wayside, never getting as much attention as major, dominant, or minor chords… The result: nearly everyone sucks at them Think about it. Are you as comfortable on Bb half diminished as Bb major? if …

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Harold Mabern Gems

3 Gems Harold Mabern Told Me

By

Forrest

Inspiration, Jazz Advice and Tips

If you don’t know who Harold Mabern is, it’s time you did. The legendary pianist has played with everyone and is on the records of Lee Morgan, Hank Mobley, and Freddie Hubbard, just to name a few. I had the great honor of studying privately with him for over a year. Not only is he …

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practicing in all four directions

The Four Directions

By

Forrest

Jazz Advice and Tips, Playing Techniques

A significant part of practicing jazz improvisation consists of working on scales, chords, and patterns. Practicing them in a thorough manner will enable you to obtain the most benefit in the shortest amount of time. Unfortunately, we often get caught up in practicing this material in the same incomplete way everyday. For instance, we may …

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more keys to effective jazz practice

3 Keys to Effective Practice

By

Eric

Jazz Advice and Tips

Practicing jazz improvisation is a life-long pursuit. But just because you put in the time, doesn’t mean you’ll improve. HOW you spend that time is just as important… Here are 3 keys to practicing as effectively as possible: 1. Create your own space As a musician, time spent working in the practice room is an …

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