Learn Jazz Standards Podcast

Learn Jazz Standards Podcast

Author: Brent Vaartstra: Jazz Musician, Author, and Entrepreneur Language: English Episodes: 100
There's a certain magic in hearing a great jazz standard played well, but the path from enthusiast to confident player is often shrouded in mystery. Learn Jazz Standards Podcast cuts through that fog with practical, actionable guidance delivered every week. Host Brent Vaartstra-a working jazz musician, author, and entrepreneur-draws from his own experience to demystify the process. He approaches the music not as an untouchable art form, but as a language you can learn to speak. You'll find that this podcast is less about abstract theory and more about the tangible steps you can take in your practice room. Episodes zero in on specific musical concepts, techniques, or standards, breaking them down into understandable parts. Brent answers the real questions musicians face, whether you're working on improvisation, chord voicings, or simply trying to internalize a tune's melody. Alongside these deep dives, the show features interviews with other musicians, sharing their stories and hard-won advice. The consistent thread is a belief that while jazz is challenging, it doesn't have to feel impossibly hard. If you're looking for a resource that feels like a trusted teacher offering clear direction, this is it. The Learn Jazz Standards Podcast builds a comprehensive toolkit, one episode at a time, for anyone committed to deepening their connection to this vibrant music.
Episodes
The Worst Mistakes to Make At a Jazz Gig [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:28
In this Fast Track Friday episode, Brent discusses the common pitfalls musicians face when preparing for and performing at jazz gigs. Drawing from his extensive experience, he offers invaluable advice to ensure you’re fu…
How Do I Learn Jazz Solos by Ear? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:39
In this episode, Brent tackles a fantastic question from Arjun about mastering jazz solos by ear. He highlights the importance of this skill for learning jazz language and improvisation, while also clarifying that it's n…
Is It Important to Notate Solos I Learn? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 10:28
In this episode, Brent addresses a fascinating question from William Tino about the benefits of notating jazz solos. Brent explores the immense value of learning solos by ear, emphasizing how it enhances your ear, muscle…
How Do I Foster Creativity Before a Jazz Gig? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:14
In this episode, Brent answers a listener's question about preparing for a jazz gig. Discover effective strategies for fostering creativity and reducing pre-performance anxiety. Brent emphasizes the importance of relaxat…
The Characteristics of a Great Jazz Band [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:49
Join Brent in this insightful podcast episode as he discusses the essential characteristics of a great jazz band and its members. Responding to a question from Arjun in the Netherlands, Brent explores the importance of m…
The Frame-Of-Mind Required for Jazz Improv [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:46
In this engaging Fast Track Friday episode, Brent discusses the crucial mindset required for jazz improvisation. He emphasizes the importance of focus, open-mindedness, and a willingness to make mistakes to excel in jazz…
How Do I Use Jazz In Other Styles of Music? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:16
In this episode, Brent tackles a compelling question from listener Sebastian Watson about integrating jazz harmony and improvisation into other musical genres. Brent explores how studying jazz can deepen your musical kno…
How to Improvise Over Dominant 7th Chords [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:45
In this episode, Brent talks about the nuances of soloing over dominant chords in jazz, responding to a question from Alan Clayton, an Inner Circle member from Melbourne, Australia. Brent emphasizes the importance of und…
Chord Tone Exercises to Practice [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:05
In this episode, Brent tackles an intriguing question from Thomas in Holland about mastering jazz intervals and chord tones. Brent breaks down essential exercises for playing chord tones, from basic 1-3-5-7 patterns to m…
How to Remember Chords to Jazz Standards [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:59
In this episode, Brent talks about a listener's question regarding mastering the chord changes to "The Girl from Ipanema." He explores two essential methods for learning jazz chords and offers practical advice on chord r…