II-V-I Progression, Pt. 2

II-V-I Progression, Pt. 2

Author: Dr. Bob Lawrence March 25, 2020 Duration: 1:06:51

This Jazz Piano Lesson will help you discover, learn, and play the iconic II-V-I Progression, Pt. 2. In this episode, we layer various melodic triad patterns over the II-V-I Progression to begin developing improvisational jazz language. Be sure to Download the Podcast Guide for this podcast that musically notates the four minor triad motions (ascending/descending, descending/ascending, ascending/ascending, descending/descending) launching for the root, third, and fifth of the minor triad in all 12 major keys. An invaluable educational tool to reference while studying and practicing this iconic progression and voicings. Download Podcast Guide.

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 Bob.

PODCAST LESSON OUTLINE

  1. II-V-I Progression (Key of Bb Major)
    1. Ascending/Descending
      1. Minor Triad Motion
        1. Root Entry Point
          1. Ascending: B C Eb G
          2. Descending: F# G Eb C
        2. 3rd Entry Point
          1. Ascending: B C Eb G
          2. Descending: F# G Eb C
        3. 5th Entry Point
          1. Ascending: F# G C Eb
          2. Descending: D Eb C G
    2. Descending/Ascending
      1. Minor Triad Motion
        1. Root Entry Point
          1. Descending: B C G Eb
          2. Ascending: D Eb G C
        2. 3rd Entry Point
          1. Descending: D Eb C G
          2. Ascending: F# G C Eb
        3. 5th Entry Point
          1. Descending: F# G Eb C
          2. Ascending: B C Eb G
    3. Ascending/Ascending
      1. Minor Triad Motion
        1. Root Entry Point
          1. Ascending: B C Eb G
          2. Ascending: F# G C Eb
        2. 3rd Entry Point
          1. Ascending: D Eb G C
          2. Ascending: B C Eb G
        3. 5th Entry Point
          1. Ascending: F# G C Eb
          2. Ascending: D Eb B C
    4. Descending/Descending
      1. Minor Triad Motion
        1. Root Entry Point
          1. Descending: B C G Eb
          2. Descending: D Eb C G
        2. 3rd Entry Point
          1. Descending: D Eb C G
          2. Descending: F# G Eb C
        3. 5th Entry Point
          1. Descending: F# G Eb C
          2. Descending: D Eb C G

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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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