Episódios
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In this week's episode, Brent discusses a common struggle many musicians face: self-doubt. Through a poignant listener question, he addresses the pervasive nature of self-doubt and shares personal anecdotes, making it evident that even world-class musicians experience this phenomenon.
Throughout the episode, Brent offers actionable insights and practical strategies for overcoming self-doubt. By reframing self-doubt as a natural part of the creative process, musicians can cultivate resilience and confidence in their abilities.
With Brent's guidance, listeners are empowered to navigate their musical journey with courage, curiosity, and a renewed sense of purpose. Don't miss out on this insightful episode that will inspire you to approach music with acceptance and joy.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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In this Fast Track Friday episode, Brent revisits the week's episodes and delves deeper into the theme of playing what you hear. He reflects on a recent question posed during one of the Inner Circle's live Q&A sessions, where a member sought advice on the best approach to improvisation. Drawing from personal experiences and expert insights, he navigates the complexities of auditory perception and instrumental fluency, offering listeners invaluable guidance on cultivating a holistic approach to musical development.
Through a candid exploration of improvisational techniques and the nuances of musical expression, Brent empowers listeners to embrace trial and error as essential components of the learning process. He shares practical strategies for deepening the connection between auditory imagination and instrumental execution, fostering a nuanced understanding of jazz improvisation.
With engaging anecdotes and expert commentary, Brent embarks on a journey of musical discovery, giving encouragement to explore new horizons and embrace the joy of creative expression. Don't miss out on this enriching discussion that promises to revolutionize your approach to playing jazz.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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In this episode, Brent discusses an intriguing question posed by listener Alan Kahn regarding the challenge of transitioning to a wind synthesizer from the trumpet and recapturing the ability to play by ear. Alan shares his previous experiences playing trumpet in various musical settings without extensive music theory knowledge, relying solely on his intuitive ability to improvise and captivate audiences. However, upon switching to the wind synthesizer and adapting to saxophone fingering, Alan finds himself grappling with the need to redevelop his capacity to play by ear. Brent expertly dissects Alan's dilemma, shedding light on the fundamental relationship between auditory perception and instrumental proficiency in jazz improvisation.
Brent emphasizes the critical role of muscle memory in bridging the gap between mental musical concepts and their execution on the instrument. Drawing parallels between conscious pattern recognition and subconscious improvisational fluency, He underscores the necessity of developing a profound understanding of one's instrument to unlock improvisational prowess.
Through practical examples and insightful commentary, Brent elucidates the intricate interplay between auditory acuity and technical mastery, empowering listeners to cultivate a holistic approach to musical development. With engaging anecdotes and expert guidance, he encourages musicians to embrace the journey of musical exploration and discovery, reminding them that true knowledge is manifested through action and deliberate, quality practice.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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In this episode, Brent addresses a crucial question posed by listener Troy West about bridging the gap between auditory imagination and instrumental execution in jazz improvisation. He offers invaluable insights and practical exercises to enhance the connection between what musicians hear in their minds and what they play on their instruments. He begins by discussing the fundamentals of ear training, emphasizing the importance of interval and chord recognition as essential skills for strengthening one's ear.
Brent highlights the inner circle's dedicated ear training course, "How to Play What You Hear," as a valuable resource for aspiring jazz musicians seeking to refine their auditory perception and improvisational abilities.
Continuing the discussion, Brent introduces two pivotal exercises: melodic dictation and learning melodies and solos by ear. Through melodic dictation, musicians develop the skill to swiftly translate musical ideas heard in their minds onto their instruments. Brent underscores the significance of this exercise in cultivating spontaneous creativity and strengthening the connection between auditory perception and instrumental execution.
Tune in to embark on a transformative journey of musical growth and mastery.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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In this episode, Brent answers a thought-provoking question from listener Winfried Wilms about achieving a final version of improvisation. Through a captivating exploration, Brent unpacks the complexities of planning versus improvising in jazz solos. Drawing upon his extensive experience as a jazz musician and educator, he navigates the nuances of preparing for performances while maintaining the essence of improvisation.
He emphasizes the importance of balancing structured practice with spontaneity, highlighting how composition exercises can enhance improvisational skills without sacrificing creativity. Through insightful analogies to sports and music, Brent demonstrates the dynamic interplay between preparation, muscle memory, and improvisational fluency, offering valuable insights for musicians at any level.
Brent brings on a journey of musical discovery and growth, exploring the intersection of practice, performance, and creativity in jazz improvisation. With engaging anecdotes and practical advice, he empowers aspiring jazz musicians to embrace the joy of spontaneous expression while honing their craft through deliberate practice.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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In this week's episode, Brent delves into an intriguing question from listener Cliff Bryant: Which came first, the blues or jazz? Through a captivating exploration, Brent unravels the historical and musical connections between these two iconic genres. From the roots of the blues in African American culture to its profound influence on the birth of jazz in early 20th-century New Orleans, Brent paints a vivid picture of the interconnectedness between these musical traditions.
Drawing upon his wealth of knowledge and engaging storytelling, Brent demonstrates why understanding the blues is essential for any jazz musician and why it continues to resonate deeply in modern jazz and beyond.
Throughout the episode, he emphasizes the timeless significance of the blues and its enduring impact on diverse musical styles, from rock and R&B to hip-hop and pop. He highlights how the essence of the blues permeates modern jazz, even in avant-garde expressions, and underscores the importance of studying this foundational genre for jazz improvisation and musical understanding.
So tune in, subscribe, and join Brent on this fascinating exploration of the blues and its profound influence on jazz and beyond.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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In this Fast Track Friday episode, Brent dives into the intricacies of crafting an effective set list for jazz gigs. With a keen focus on maintaining energy levels and providing variety, he will walk you through an eight-song set list example, offering valuable insights into song selection and sequencing.
From upbeat tunes like "My Shining Hour" to soulful ballads like "Misty," each song choice is carefully explained in terms of its impact on the overall vibe and flow of the performance. Brent's practical tips and strategic approach to constructing setlists provide aspiring jazz musicians with a blueprint for curating engaging and memorable live performances.
He demonstrates how thoughtful planning can enhance the audience's experience and keep them engaged throughout the gig. Whether you're a seasoned performer looking to refine your set list or a budding musician seeking guidance on structuring your repertoire, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable strategies to elevate your live performances.
Tune in now to discover how to create compelling setlists that captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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In this engaging episode, Brent tackles a fascinating question posed by Tiago Leyte about contrafacts and their role in jazz improvisation. Explaining the concept of contrafacts as new melodies crafted over existing chord progressions, Brent shares the benefits of exploring and composing these musical variations. Drawing on examples like rhythm changes and the classic contrafact "Oleo" by Sonny Rollins, he demonstrates how creating original counter-effects can enhance improvisational skills by focusing on crafting expressive melodies rather than relying solely on scales and patterns.
He discusses invaluable insights into the process of composing counter-effects, emphasizing the importance of simplicity, singability, and thematic repetition. Through practical advice and demonstration, he encourages musicians to experiment with composing their own melodies over familiar chord changes, fostering a deeper understanding of melody and musical expression in jazz improvisation.
Don't miss this opportunity to unlock new creative avenues in your jazz journey by exploring the world of contrafacts. Tune in now for a dose of inspiration and practical tips to elevate your improvisational skills.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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In this episode of the Learn Jazz Standards podcast, Brent addresses a fundamental question posed by Philip Sorge: What distinguishes a beginner jazz soloist from a master jazz soloist?
Exploring the differences in mindset and approach, Brent touches on how beginners often rely on scales and patterns, while seasoned improvisers prioritize spontaneity and a deep connection between ear and instrument.
Highlighting the journey from mechanical execution to expressive improvisation, he offers insights into how active listening and learning by ear can help aspiring jazz musicians develop their own unique voices on their instruments.
Through insightful analysis and practical advice, Brent encourages jazz musicians to embrace a holistic approach to jazz improvisation, rooted in creativity, spontaneity, and a deep connection between musical intuition and instrumental proficiency. Tune in to discover the secrets behind crafting melodies that resonate with the soul of jazz.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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In this insightful episode, Brent offers valuable insights on crafting the perfect setlist for jazz gigs, drawing from his extensive experience as a seasoned musician. Beginning with the importance of understanding one's role in performance, he discusses tailoring the setlist to suit different venues and atmospheres, whether it be background music for an upscale restaurant or energizing tunes for a lively bar setting.
He shares a structured approach and practical advice that contributes to a cohesive and engaging musical experience for both the audience and the performers.
From starting with high-energy crowd-pleasers to concluding on a memorable note, Brent's thoughtful recommendations provide practical guidance for musicians seeking to curate engaging and cohesive performances.
Don't miss out on Brent's upcoming Fast Track Friday episode, where he'll demonstrate how to apply these concepts with a sample setlist. Subscribe now to the podcast and elevate your jazz gig game to new heights!
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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In this captivating episode, Brent explores the intricacies of rhythm and syncopation, offering invaluable insights and practical exercises to enhance your musical prowess.
Through a listener's inquiry about improving left-hand steadiness while navigating syncopated rhythms in the right hand, Brent expertly breaks down fundamental rhythmic concepts, guiding through various subdivisions and metronome exercises to strengthen their rhythmic foundation. With clear explanations and relatable examples, he demonstrates how to develop dexterity and independence between hands, providing valuable tips applicable to pianists and comping instrumentalists alike.
Brent's engaging discourse on rhythm and syncopation is sure to inspire and empower you in your quest for jazz excellence. Tune in to this enlightening episode and take the first step towards unlocking your rhythmic potential!
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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In this Fast Track Friday episode, Brent shares a candid and humorous account of his most embarrassing moment playing jazz, offering valuable insights and lessons learned from the experience. Through this relatable anecdote, he underscores the importance of rhythm and time feel in jazz improvisation, emphasizing that impeccable note choices and musical knowledge can be overshadowed by deficiencies in rhythmic proficiency.
Drawing from his own journey of improvement, Brent provides practical tips and exercises for enhancing one's sense of rhythm and inner subdivision. He also highlights resources available to Inner Circle members for further development in this crucial aspect of jazz musicianship.
With humor and humility, Brent encourages one to embrace their weaknesses and work diligently to strengthen their rhythmic foundation, ultimately fostering growth and confidence in their jazz improvisation endeavors. Tune in to this insightful episode for a dose of inspiration and practical guidance on the road to becoming a better jazz musician!
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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In this episode, Brent explores the foundational elements of jazz improvisation, answering a compelling question posed by Martin Kendall: Can we establish globally applicable first three steps to jazz improvisation basics? With his trademark enthusiasm and expertise, Brent introduces the concept of the "three pillars of jazz improvisation," offering a comprehensive roadmap to enhance improvisational skills, regardless of whatever instrument one plays.
Through engaging examples and insightful commentary, he underscores the significance of jazz repertoire, jazz language, and technique as essential components for aspiring jazz musicians.
Beginning with the importance of learning jazz standards as the cornerstone of jazz improvisation, Brent navigates through the realms of jazz language acquisition, emphasizing the value of listening to jazz masters and internalizing their musical vocabulary. He then transitions seamlessly into the realm of technique, both instrument-specific and jazz-specific, highlighting the critical role they play in honing one's improvisational prowess.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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In this episode, Brent addresses a common concern among jazz musicians: how to effectively internalize and recall jazz licks and patterns for improvisation. Through engaging dialogue and insightful guidance, Brent unveils a transformative approach to learning and incorporating musical vocabulary into one's playing.
Drawing from his own experiences and the questions posed by Alain Londes, Brent challenges conventional wisdom, emphasizing that the goal isn't simply to memorize endless licks but rather to assimilate them into one's musical language authentically.
With a step-by-step breakdown, Brent outlines a dynamic process for integrating learned licks into improvisational freedom. From learning by ear and practicing in all 12 keys to re-composing and ultimately improvising, he empowers listeners to cultivate a personal musical voice rooted in genuine expression.
Whether you're a seasoned jazz practitioner or a budding enthusiast, this episode offers invaluable insights to elevate your improvisational skills and unlock the true essence of jazz.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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In this episode, Brent discusses about the challenging realm of improvisation over John Coltrane's "Giant Steps." With a captivating blend of humor and expertise, he tackles Jeremy's question head-on, exploring strategies to navigate the complexities of this legendary jazz standard.
From unraveling the intricate chord progressions to dissecting Coltrane's improvisational techniques, Brent offers invaluable insights aimed at demystifying the daunting task of soloing over "Giant Steps."
Brent emphasizes the importance of understanding harmony, slowing down the tempo, and implementing melodic patterns. Drawing from his own experiences and the wisdom of jazz luminaries like Peter Bernstein, Brent equips aspiring jazz musicians with the tools and confidence to tackle this formidable composition.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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In this episode, Brent addresses a question from an Inner Circle member about quartal voicings and their application in chord progressions. Brent breaks down the concept, explaining how they differ from traditional chord voicings by being stacked in fourths rather than thirds.
He explores their versatility, emphasizing their common use in modal playing and how they can enhance chord progressions, even in traditional diatonic harmony settings like two-five-one progressions.
Throughout the episode, Brent offers practical insights and examples, demonstrating how quartal voicings can add depth and texture to playing while also acknowledging their inherent ambiguity. Drawing on examples from jazz legends like McCoy Tyner, he encourages experimenting with quartal voicings in various musical contexts, adding that understanding the sound we aim to produce is key to using quartal voicings effectively.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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Join Brent on another exciting episode for a deep dive into jazz solos worth learning. In this special Fast Track Friday edition, he reflects on the week's episodes and shares invaluable insights into the art of storytelling through jazz improvisation. From Miles Davis's iconic solo on "So What" to Chet Baker's emotive vocal solo on "It Could Happen To You," Brent highlights 10 captivating solos that offer valuable lessons in jazz language and storytelling.
Discover the melodic richness of Miles Davis's solos on "Freddie Freeloader" and "So What," perfect for beginners looking to delve into jazz improvisation. Explore the bebop brilliance of Charlie Parker's "Now Is The Time" and the thematic approach of Hank Mobley's "Someday My Prince Will Come" solo.
From the rhythmic mastery of Wynton Kelly's "Freddie Freeloader" to the raw emotion of Chet Baker's vocal improvisation, these solos offer a diverse range of styles and techniques for musicians of all levels.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to expand your jazz vocabulary and enhance your improvisational skills!
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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Don't miss today's podcast where Brent answers a question by Anthony, a seasoned music educator who poses a thought-provoking question about developing the ability to create narrative-driven solos rather than relying on pre-learned licks.
Brent dives deep into this topic, offering actionable strategies to help musicians of all levels infuse their improvisations with compelling storytelling. From composing your own solos to playing free and practicing motivic development, he provides invaluable insights to help you break free from the constraints of lick playing and elevate your improvisational skills to new heights.
Join Brent as he shares not only practical techniques but also classic jazz solos that exemplify great storytelling. Tomorrow's Fast Track Friday episode promises to be an enriching exploration of jazz legends who masterfully weave narratives into their improvisations. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your musical journey!
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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Get ready to unlock the secrets of jazz learning tools and software with Brent on the latest episode of the Learn Jazz Standards podcast. Caitlin, an Inner Circle member, poses a question that resonates with all jazz enthusiasts: What software and tools are helpful for learning and practicing jazz?
Brent dives deep into this topic, providing valuable insights and recommendations for musicians of all levels. He emphasizes the importance of leveraging technology to enhance your learning experience, whether you're transcribing melodies, practicing with backing tracks, or organizing your practice sessions. His thorough exploration covers essential tools like slow downers, backing track software, practice organizers like Audacity, recording apps, and music notation software, offering practical advice to help you level up your jazz skills.
Don't miss out on this enlightening episode packed with actionable tips and recommendations to supercharge your jazz learning journey!
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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In this episode, Brent explores the world of jazz voicings. Phil, an Inner Circle member, poses a thought-provoking question about drop two voicings and their relevance across different instruments, sparking an insightful discussion.
Brent breaks down the concept of drop two voicings and their practical applications, not only for guitarists but also for horn and piano players. Through clear explanations and musical demonstrations, he reveals how drop two voicings can enhance harmony, create melodic possibilities, and add depth to improvisation.
Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting your jazz journey, this episode offers valuable insights into the versatility of drop two voicings and their role in jazz music. Tune in, subscribe, and share the podcast to explore new horizons in jazz playing!
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards PodcastLearn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
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