Take the 'A' Train

Take the 'A' Train

Author: Dr. Bob Lawrence July 7, 2020 Duration: 1:06:12

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, and Play a specific Jazz Piano skill.

This Jazz Piano Lesson will help you Discover, Learn, Play the classic jazz standard by Billy Strayhorn and Duke Ellington, "Take the 'A' Train". In this jazz piano lesson you will:

  1. Discover: The classic jazz standard "Take the 'A' Train"
  2. Learn: How to methodically practice "Take the 'A' Train" 
  3. Play: "Take the 'A' Train" using correct chord/scale relationships

For maximum musical growth, be sure to download the Podcast Guides for this Jazz Piano Lesson.

All three Podcast Guides are designed to help you gain a functional command of the "Take the 'A' Train". The Podcast Guides are invaluable educational tools to have at your side and finger-tips 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 The ‘A’ Train
      1. Duke Ellington/Billy Strayhorn
      2. Tune Architecture
        1. Form: AABA
        2. Key: C
        3. Chord Progression
          1. A Section
          2. B Section
  2. Learn
    1. Chord Changes In Time for "Take the 'A' Train"
      1. Left Hand Voicing Only
      2. Two-Handed Voicing
    2. Learn the Melody for "Take the 'A' Train"
      1. Using your ear - no fakebook
  3. Play
    1. Chord Changes in Left Hand for "Take the 'A' Train" with:
      1. With Melody Only
      2. With Arpeggios in Right Hand
      3. With Scales in Right Hand
    2. Improvise over the chord changes for "Take the 'A' Train"
      1. “A” Section
        1. Arpeggios Only (no reference to the melody)
        2. Scales Only (no reference to the melody)
      2. “B” Section
        1. Arpeggios Only (no reference to the melody)
        2. Scales Only (no reference to the melody)
      3. The entire form of "Take the 'A' Train" using
        1. Melody
        2. Arpeggio Motion
        3. Scale Motion
        4. Patterns

Visit JazzPianoSkills.com for a comprehensive curriculum of jazz piano courses & lessons exploring essential jazz piano skills used by professional jazz pianists.

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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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