LESSON 1: Tape Measure Scales® Introduction / 1 and 2 Note Version
In this video lesson, I share a concept that I developed after many years of studying the masters. I call it “Tape Measure Scales.” The idea is based on my observations that most people practice scales one octave (or more) in length, but I’ve noticed that this isn’t the way that the scales are actually used when improvising. Professional players can customize the length of any scale to fit any chord, even if the chord is only played for one or two beats. This system will teach you my approach in a step-by-step way, giving you amazing control of your scales. It will also improve your ear, your musical memory and sharpen your mental focus while playing. This is a core item in my own practice sessions. INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED LEVEL

LESSON 2: 3 Note Tape Measure® Scales
In this video, I demonstrate the three note tape measure scales. This is the first three notes of each major scale, played in the cycle. I play the three notes in four direcitons: 1. Up 2. Down 3. Up/Down 4. Down/Up. I also discuss and demonstrate practicing the scale slowly, for ear training, as well as a demonstration of playing the three note scale very quickly, for use as a technique workout. INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED LEVEL.

LESSON 3: Jazz Vibrato
In this video, I share my unique approach to teaching the jazz style vibrato. This is very different from a classical style vibrato. Many classical players favor a steady, contant speed when using vibrato. However, the jazz vibrato is usually variable in speed, and it often employs a decrescendo as it speeds up. I demonstrate how to practice separating the sound of the air from the sound of the note and then put all of the parts together, playing a couple of phrases of familiar melodies, using the vibrato. INTERMEDIATE AND ADVANCED LEVEL.

LESSSON 4: Nailing a ii / V / I progression with a Descending Major Scale
In this video, I’ll show you a way to clearly bring out the sound of a ii/V/I progression using just the notes of a descending major scale. This approach works because it takes key notes in the scale and aligns them so that the 3rds and 7ths of the chords are hit at just the right time. I also show how to add the bass notes in the low register of the horn, so that you can combine the root movement with the descending scale. Great for ear training, and also a very practical way to get more musical mileage out of your major scales. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.

LESSON 5: LISTENING RECOMMENDATIONS – Nancy Wilson / Cannonball Adderley
In this video, I share a view of my personal record collection. I discuss the importance of having a high quality stereo system, as well as the importance of being able to listen to an entire album in one sitting, with no distractions of web-surfing, texting or facebook. To me, listening to an album is like listening to a set of music at a jazz club. There will be many more future album recommendation videos, but the Nancy Wilson/Cannonball Adderley album would be at the top of any great player’s list of essential listening.

LESSON 1: Hearing Your Way Down a 7th Chord
This video lesson will help you to improve your ability to play descending chords (7-5-3-1). Many aspiring players have no problem playing ascending chords (1-3-5-7), but playing that same chord backwards (descending) presents a real challenge. In this video, I explain why the descending chords can be more difficult for some players, and I share my unique approach to help you hear your way down the chords. Includes PDF lesson notes. INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED LEVEL

LESSON 2: 3 Four Contours of 3rds Over a ii / V / I Progression
In this video lesson, I’ll show you how to highlight the third of each chord in a ii / V / I progression to create lines with four different contours. These contours have a powerful effect on the type of melodic line you’ll create. This lesson also shares tips for creating rhythmic and melodic variations in your phrases. If you ever feel like you play good notes in your solos, but your phrases are lacking in clarity of direction, this lesson is exactly what you need to take things to the next level. Includes detailed PDF lesson notes. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL

LESSON 3: Hip Lick #7 Video Lesson
In this video lesson, I’ll show you how to work with Hip Lick #7 from my book, Hip Licks for Saxophone, Volume 1. This is a ii mi7 – V7 lick. It’s a one-measure lick with a nice seven-to-three voiceleading move included. Very easy to play, and it nails the changes. Includes tips on hearing the roots of the chords while playing the lick, working the lick in 12 keys and creating a nice variation on the lick. PDF lesson notes included. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.

LESSSON 4: 4 Note Tape Measure® Scales
In this video, I demonstrate the four note tape measure scales. This is the first four notes of each major scale, played in the cycle. I play the four notes in four directions: 1. Up 2. Down 3. Up/Down 4. Down/Up. I also discuss and demonstrate some different phrasing techniques for the four note scales, as well as playing each grouping twice for a technical workout. Includes PDF Lesson notes. INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED LEVEL.