Gershwin's "I Got Rhythm"

Gershwin's "I Got Rhythm"

Author: Dr. Bob Lawrence August 11, 2020 Duration: 1:01:14

Welcome to JazzPianoSkills; a unique Jazz Piano Program dedicated to introducing aspiring jazz pianists to essential Jazz Piano skills. Each Podcast Episode will help you successfully Discover, Learn, Play a specific Jazz Piano skill.

This Jazz Piano Lesson will help you Discover, Learn, Play the classic jazz standard by George Gershwin, "I Got Rhythm". In this jazz piano lesson you will:

  1. Discover: The classic jazz standard "I Got Rhythm"
  2. Learn: How to methodically practice "I Got Rhythm" 
  3. Play: "I Got Rhythm" using correct chord/scale relationships

JazzPianoSkills Members should use the Educational Podcast Guides to maximum musical growth.

All three Educational Podcast Guides are designed to help you gain a functional command of Gershwin's "I Got Rhythm". The Educational Podcast Guides are invaluable educational tools to have at your side while studying and practicing JazzPianoSkills.

You can listen to this Podcast Episode at JazzPianoSkills and have access to the SpeakPipe Widget that allows you to speak immediately and directly to Dr. Bob Lawrence. Ask your questions, get answers, and interact one-on-one with Dr. Lawrence.

EPISODE OUTLINE:

  1. Discover
    1. Take Gershwin's "I Got Rhythm"
      1. Tune Architecture
        1. Form: AABA
        2. Key: Bb Major
        3. Chord Progression
          1. A Section
          2. B Section
  2. Learn
    1. Chord Changes In Time for Gershwin's "I Got Rhythm"
      1. Two-Handed Voicing Only
      2. Left Hand Voicing Only
  3. Learn the Melody for Gershwin's "I Got Rhythm"
    1. Using your ear - no fakebook
  4. Play
    1. Chord Changes in Left Hand for "I Got Rhythm" with:
      1. With Melody in Right Hand
        1. 'A' Section Only
        2. 'B' Section Only
    2. Improvise over the chord changes for "Take the 'A' Train"
      1. “A” Section
        1. Arpeggio Motion (mapped - no reference to the melody)
        2. Scale Motion  (mapped - no reference to the melody)
      2. “B” Section
        1. Arpeggios Motion (mapped - no reference to the melody)
        2. Scale Motion (mapped - no reference to the melody)
      3. The entire form of "Take the 'A' Train" using
        1. Melody
        2. Chords (Voicings)
      4. The entire form of "Take the 'A' Train" using
        1. Harmonic Function
        2. Chords (Voicings)

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There's a certain magic in hearing a great jazz pianist, a feeling that it's both complex and effortless. Jazz Piano Skills pulls back the curtain on that magic, transforming it into a clear, practical path forward. Hosted by Dr. Bob Lawrence, an educator and the President of The Dallas School of Music, this series feels less like a lecture and more like a series of private sessions. Each episode focuses on a tangible skill, breaking down the theory, harmony, and technique that define the jazz language. You'll hear Bob at the keyboard, demonstrating chord voicings, improvisational patterns, and rhythmic concepts, explaining the 'why' behind every note. Whether you're deciphering a standard or building a solo from scratch, the guidance is always rooted in practical application. This podcast is designed for those who want to move beyond simply playing notes on a page and start speaking through the instrument. It’s a deep, methodical exploration of the art form, offering structured lessons that build upon each other. Tune in and find your voice at the keys, learning directly from a professional whose teaching strips away the intimidation and fuels genuine musical growth.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 332

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