Lester Leaps In

Lester Leaps In

Author: Dr. Bob Lawrence September 15, 2020 Duration: 43:05

Welcome to JazzPianoSkills; it's time to discover, learn, and play Jazz Piano!

Every JazzPianoSkills weekly podcast episode introduces aspiring jazz pianists to essential Jazz Piano Skills. Each Podcast episode explores a specific Jazz Piano Skill in depth. Today you will discover, learn, play the jazz standard by legendary jazz saxophonist Lester Young, Lester Leaps In. In this Jazz Piano Lesson you will:

Discover
The Jazz standard by Lester Young (the Pres), Lester Leaps In
Learn
Historical Facts, Form, Chords Changes, Melody, Harmonic Structure of Lester Leaps In
Play
Lester Leaps In using Melodic Treatments and Improvisation

For maximum musical growth, be sure to use the Jazz Piano Podcast Packets for this Jazz Piano Lesson. All three Podcast Packets are designed to help you gain insight and command of a specific Jazz Piano Skill. The Podcast Packets are invaluable educational tools to have at your fingertips while studying and practicing the jazz standard by legendary jazz saxophonist Lester Young, Lester Leaps In.

Download Podcast Packets
Illustrations
(detailed graphics of the jazz piano skill)
Lead Sheets
(beautifully notated music lead sheets)
Play Alongs
(ensemble assistance and practice tips)

EPISODE OUTLINE:
Introduction
Discover, Learn, Play
Invite to Join JazzPianoSkills

DEMO ONE
Lester Leaps In (Key of Bb)
Melodic Treatment (‘A’ Section)
Single Note (Bud Powell Style)
Improvisation (‘B’ Section)
Chord Tones Only

DEMO TWO
Lester Leaps In (Key of Bb)
Melodic Treatment (‘A’ Section)
Unison Line (Oscar Peterson Style)
Improvisation (‘B’ Section)
Chord Tones Only

DEMO THREE
Lester Leaps In (Key of Bb)
Melodic Treatment (‘A’ Section)
Octave + 5th (Red Garland Style)
Improvisation (‘B’ Section)
Chord Tones Only

DEMO FOUR
Lester Leaps In (Key of Bb)
Melodic Treatment (‘A’ Section)
Locked Hands (George Shearing Style)
Improvisation (‘B’ Section)
Chord Tones Only

DEMO FIVE
Lester Leaps In (Key of Bb)
Melodic Treatment (‘A’ Section)
Quartal/Fourthy Structures (Herbie Hancock Style)
Improvisation (‘B’ Section)
Chord Tones Only

Conclusion
Closing Comments

Visit JazzPianoSkills for more educational resources that include a sequential curriculum with interactive Jazz Piano Courses, private and group online Jazz Piano Classes, and a private jazz piano community Jazz Piano Forums.

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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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