Summertime

Summertime

Author: Dr. Bob Lawrence January 27, 2021 Duration: 46:05

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 George Gershwin's Summertime. In this Jazz Piano Lesson you will:

Discover
George Gershwin's Summertime
Learn
How to strategically study and practice George Gershwin's Summertime
Play
Gershwin's Summertime using a standard and enhanced chord progression

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 Summertime.

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 1:
Harmonic Motion
Two-Handed Primary Voicings

Demo 2:
Melody Only
Right Hand Only

Demo 3:
Chords + Melody
Shell Voicings (Left Hand)
Two-Handed Primary Voicings

Demo 4:
Enhanced Harmonic Motion
Shell Voicings (Left Hand)
Two-Handed Primary Voicings
Melody (Right Hand Only)

Demo 5:
D Minor
Improvisation
Chord Tones Only

Demo 6:
Minor II-V-I (E-7b5, A7b9, D-7)
Improvisation
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.

If you wish to support JazzPianoSkills with a donation you can do so easily through the JazzPianoSkills Paypal Account.

Thank you for being a JazzPianoSkills listener. It is my pleasure to help you discover, learn, and play jazz piano!

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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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