Tangerine, Harmonic Analysis

Tangerine, Harmonic Analysis

Author: Dr. Bob Lawrence October 8, 2025 Duration: 34:11

Podcast Packets
Illustrations
Lead Sheets
Play Alongs

Forums
Jazz Piano Skills Community

Keywords
jazz piano, music education, harmony, melody, improvisation, chord voicing, jazz standards, Tangerine, music theory, piano skills

Summary
In this episode of Jazz Piano Skills, Dr. Bob Lawrence introduces the essential skills needed for jazz piano, emphasizing a structured approach to learning tunes. The discussion covers the importance of harmony, melody, and improvisation, framed within the seven facts of music. The episode focuses on the classic jazz standard 'Tangerine,' exploring its harmonic analysis, unique chord changes, and voicing techniques. Listeners are encouraged to practice harmonic motion patterns to develop muscle memory and improve their playing. The episode concludes with an invitation to join the Jazz Piano Skills community for further learning and support.

Takeaways
Skill-centric is the key to learning jazz piano.
Tunes illuminate our weaknesses in playing.
Understanding music requires articulating its fundamental concepts.
The seven facts of music provide a framework for learning.
Circle motion is the most common harmonic movement in jazz.
Only two notes move in a circle motion progression.
Tangerine follows an A, B, A, C form structure.
Practice harmonic motion patterns to develop muscle memory.
Hearing tonic is essential for understanding harmonic movement.
Block voicings are effective for supporting melody and improvisation.

Titles
Unlocking Jazz Piano Skills: A Comprehensive Guide
Mastering Harmony, Melody, and Improvisation

Sound bites
"Skill-centric is the key."
"Tunes illuminate our weaknesses."
"Tangerine has an A, B, A, C form."

Support the show


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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