LESSON MODULES

Module 23

LESSON 1: Hip Lick #2 – Video Lesson

This video lesson starts with a demonstration of the lick played in several keys, followed by a step-by-step approach showing you how to create the lick.

This lesson also includes strategies for using the lick for ear training, high-speed technical practice, as well as lots of cool variations on the lick. Includes detailed PDF lesson practice notes in C, Bb and Eb. Intermediate Level.

LESSON 2: 7 Modes of Major – The Mode Sandwich
In this video lesson, I explore the traditional way the modes are taught and then demonstrate my system of playing all of the modes “sandwiched” between a low and high C.

The low and high C’s act as the top and bottom pieces of bread, with the seven different flavors of modes between the two C’s. Also includes a fun device to memorize the order of the mode names. A fun video of essentials for all players. Beginning & Intermediate level, with PDF practice notes.

LESSON 3: Interactive Metronome Practice
In this video lesson, I share an approach to working with the metronome in which the metronome is an active, rhythmic part of the solo. I have the metronome clicking on 2 & 4, and I make up a solo based on the chords of “Take the A Train.”

The solo is full of playful rhythmic twists and turns which interact with the clicks of the metronome. Includes a PDF transcription of the solo for Bb, Eb and C instruments. Intermediate & Advanced Level.

LESSON 4: Hearing the Metronome on 2 & 4
In this video lesson, I show you my technique for hearing the metronome on beats two and four.

This is an essential skill for all jazz musicians. When I hear the metronome on 2 & 4, I imagine the metronome acting as a hi-hat, since that’s where the hi-hat clicks for most swing/bop tunes in 4/4 time.

If you’ve ever had difficulty in perceiving the metronome as clicking on “2 & 4,” this video is for you.

LESSON 5: Listening Recommendation: Dexter Gordon – Go
In this video lesson, I discuss one of my favorite Dexter Gordon albums.

aprox 29 min

Module 20

LESSON 1: There is No Greater Love – Part 1 of 2 Mind Transcription
This is part one of a two-part video lesson which I call my “Mind Transcription” series. In this series, I share my ideas and strategies for soloing over the chords of popular standards and jazz tunes.

For this lesson, I’ve chosen the changes for There is No Greater Love. In part one of the lesson, I comp the chords at the piano, discuss the importance of hearing the chords at the piano, explore and explain voice-leading strategies and start the analysis of my original solo over the changes.

PDF practice materials to be used with parts 1 and 2 of this lesson are attached to this video lesson. Materials include 1. Voice leading example sheet. 2. The solo I created on the changes of There is No Greater Love 3. MP3 play-along tracks (short demo version and long rhythm-section only version) – Includes PDFs for C, Bb, and Eb instruments.

LESSON 2: There is No Greater Love – Part 2 of 2 – Mind Transcription
This is the second part of the lesson. Includes discussion of note groupings and use of sequence.

LESSON 3: The Cycle
In this video lesson, Greg shares his unique system for teaching the Cycle (also known as “the Circle of 4ths” or “the Circle of 5ths”). Understanding the Cycle is essential for the development of all aspiring musicians. Includes Hip Lick #1 played in the Cycle in 12 keys, plus detailed PDF lesson notes for C, Bb, and Eb instruments. INTERMEDIATE / ADVANCED LEVEL.

LESSON 4: Hip Lick #10 Video Lesson
In this video lesson, I’ll show you how to work with Hip Lick #10 from my book, Hip Licks for Saxophone, Volume 1. This is a ii mi7 – V7 lick often used by Charlie Parker.

The lick starts on the 9th of the mi7 chord and it’s very easy to play. Includes tips on hearing the roots of the chords while playing the lick, working the lick in 12 keys, and a demonstration of placing the lick in the beginning, middle, or end of a longer phrase. PDF includes the lick written out in all 12 keys. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.

LESSON 5: Minor 3rds Video Lesson – Intervals in Action
This video lesson explores minor 3rd intervals in many different harmonic contexts with a particular focus given to the way that the interval is used by Jobim in his classic Bossa Nova, “The Girl From Ipanema.” Includes a PDF of page 65 from the book “Intervals in Action,” featuring 31 different harmonic applications of the minor 3rd.

Also includes a PDF of the chord arpeggios and the “Ipanema” application of the interval, as played in the video lesson. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.

aprox 46 min

Module 19

LESSON: Blue Bossa Solo – Part 1 of 4 – Mind Transcription
This is part one of a four-part video series in which I call my “Mind Transcription” series. In this series, I share my ideas and strategies for soloing over the chords of popular standards and jazz tunes.For this lesson, I’ve chosen the changes for Blue Bossa.In part one of this four-part lesson, I comp the chords at the piano, discuss the importance of hearing the chords at the piano, explore and explain voice-leading strategies from both the 7th and the 5th, and start the analysis of my original solo over the changes. I also discuss my thoughts about playing the roots of the chords over your solos.PDF practice materials to be used with all four parts of this lesson are attached to this video lesson. Materials include:

1. Three voice-leading example sheets
2. The solo I created on the changes of Blue Bossa
3. MP3 play-along tracks (short demo version and long rhythm-section only version)Includes PDFs for C, Bb, and Eb instruments.

LESSON: Blue Bossa Solo – Part 2 of 4 – Mind Transcription
Part 2 of 4 continues with an in-depth analysis of the solo, advanced voice-leading moves. This portion of the lesson ends at the half-way point in the solo (includes letters A through B).

PDF practice materials, including three voice-leading example sheets, the solo, and mp3 play-along tracks, are attached to Part 1 of this lesson. Includes music for C, Bb, and Eb instruments.

LESSON: Blue Bossa Solo – Part 3 of 4 – Mind Transcription
In part three of this lesson, the theoretical analysis continues from letter C of the solo. I discuss “high mileage” from using major second intervals in multiple harmonic settings.This portion of the lesson also includes a brief discussion of the diminished scale and diminished whole-tone scale.

PDF practice materials, including three voice-leading example sheets, the solo, and mp3 play-along tracks, are attached to Part 1 of this lesson. Includes music for C, Bb and Eb instruments.

LESSON: Blue Bossa Solo – Part 4 of 4 – Mind Transcription

In this fourth and final part of this video lesson on the chords of Blue Bossa, I discuss the harmonic minor scale as used in the solo and give some voice-leading practice assignments and suggestions.

PDF practice materials, including three voice-leading example sheets, the solo, and mp3 play-along tracks, are attached to part 1 of this lesson. Includes music for C, Bb, and Eb instruments.

LESSON: The Double Enclosure (Zig-Zag Effect)

In this video lesson, I show you what I call the “double enclosure.” I add lower and upper neighboring tones to add heightened chromaticism to the enclosure. This creates a sort of musical “zig-zag” effect which is really fun for the ear.

Includes PDF lesson notes for C, Bb and Eb instruments. INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED LEVEL.

LESSON: Transforming Diatonic 7ths into a Swingin’ Phrase

In this video, I’ll show you how to take a common chord exercise of diatonic 7th chords, transforming them into a swingin’ phrase full of rhythmic drive with stylized elements of dynamics, articulation, and vibrato.

This is a fun, simple exercise that can really improve your time feel. Includes detailed PDF lesson notes in C, Bb and Eb. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.

aprox 55 min

Module 17

LESSON 1: Modes of Modes – How to use Locrian over a V7 Chord
In this video lesson, I show you how to use the Locrian mode in a new setting, over a dominant chord (in addition to using it over a mi7b5 chord). I call this approach “Modes of Modes,” because it gives you the flexibility to apply any mode to a different chord by taking the entire scale and placing it on notes other than the root of the chord. If you’ve ever thought to yourself, “Why do I even need the Locrian mode…I can only use it over mi7b5 chords,” this video will immediately show you how you can use this great sounding mode overall dominant chords. It will really open up your hearing. Includes PDF lesson notes. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.

LESSON 2: Ostinato Bass Figure with Solo Breaks
In this video lesson, I’ll show you how to play an ostinato bass pattern (a short, repeated theme) and take solo breaks. This is a really fun and effective way to improve your sense of time, your groove and your ability to improvise over a two or four measure solo break. This style of playing is also very effective if you ever want to play unaccompanied solo saxophone. It teaches you how to switch between performing the role of the rhythm section and the role of the soloist. Includes detailed PDF lesson notes. INTERMEDIATE / ADVANCED LEVEL.

LESSON 3: Adding a Pedal Note to Scales for “High Melodic Mileage”
In this video lesson, I’ll show how to use a device called a “pedal,” which will instantly transform your scales into very catchy, melodic phrases for use in your improvised solos. I call this approach “high melodic mileage,” because it helps you to find many more melodic uses the scales. The pedal helps to break up the monotony of the scale by highlighting lager intervals. The pedal also lends itself to naturally creating rhythmic interest in your lines. Includes PDF lesson notes. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.

LESSSON 4: 5 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 direcitons: 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.

LESSON 5: Road Tips – The D = ?
In this video, I demonstrate the five note tape measure scales. This is the first five notes of each major scale, played in the cycle. I play the five notes in four direcitons: 1. Up 2. Down 3. Up/Down 4. Down/Up. I play all examples in 3/4 and in 5/4. Includes detailed PDF Lesson notes. INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED LEVEL.

LESSON 6: Using Everyday Sounds to Locate Notes on Your Instrument?
I’m constantly aware of environmental sounds. Whether I’m in my car, listening to the “ding” telling me that the car is starting, a railroad crossing bell, an elevator chime, etc. I connect those sounds with the fingerings required to produce those pitches on my instrument. This can be tricky if you play multiple instruments, so I recommend that you use fingerings for your my primary instrument. This is a fun way to reinforce the location of the sounds you hear in your mind. As you get better at locating these external sounds, you will also improve your ability to locate internal sounds, such as the ones you’re hearing in your mind.

aprox 23 min

Module 15

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.

aprox 31 min

Module 13

LESSON 1: Dorian Mode – New System Focuses Ear on Chord Extensions
In this video lesson, I take you though my system for practicing the Dorian scale. You may already know the scale, having learned it the traditional way, as the second mode of a major scale, going from the second note of the major scale to the ninth note. While that method does give you the right notes for Dorian, it doesn’t really train the ear to hear the upper extensions of the minor chord contained within the scale. With my system, your ear will be trained to hear the difference between the sound of the 9th, 11th and 13th. This is a really fun system, and in addition to great ear training, it’s also good workout for your technique. If you already know the Dorian scale, you should watch this video to experience the sound of the scale in a new way. If you’ve never learned the Dorain scale, this is the best way to get started! INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.

LESSON 2: The Pencil Trick
In my 20’s, I was transcribing many hours each day. I got tired of putting down the pencil and picking it up again to write a just few more notes. For the sake of efficiency, I just started to hold on to the pencil, even when I was playing the horn. To my surprise, it really helped my technique. Holding the pencil dramatically improved my hand position on the horn. In this lesson, I’ll take you through the process of practicing the “pencil trick,” and also share a few other crazy strategies that I’ve used to getting my fingers in a better position on the horn. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.

LESSON 3: Tritone Substitution Tutorial
In this music theory video, I’ll take you through from the very basic application to of the tritone sub, all the way through the relationship between altered notes on the native V7 chord and extensions of the tritone substitute. PDF extras include scans of the actual sheets I created during the filming of the video lesson. INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED LEVEL

LESSSON 4: Tasting Harmony – Practice Strategies
Many group members have asked me to create a video in which I demonstrate some of my practice techniques for working with the book, Tasting Harmony. In this video, I explain the concept of the book and demonstrate many different ways of working with the play-along tracks. The extras with this video include several pages from the book, some of the exercises from the video, plus the mp3 tracks. ALL LEVELS.

LESSON 5: Road Tips – The E = ?
Greg shows how to keep your mind focused and sharp even when you’re away from the horn. This music theory game involves thinking of the note “E” as different degrees of major scales.

aprox 42 min

Module 12

LESSON 1: 1 Lick in 12 Keys vs. 12 Licks in 1 Key
Two Great Approaches to Fluency in All Keys – In this video lesson, I’ll share a practice concept which has been great for the development of my playing fluently in all twelve keys. Many are familiar with what I call the “1 in 12 approach.” With this approach to practicing in twelve keys, you take one lick, pattern or song, and play it in 12 keys. However, the “12 in 1 approach” is the reverse…You take twelve different licks and put them all into just one key. This gives you a LOT of material under your fingers in one particular key, and it really improves your hearing in a particular key center. Both approaches are vital, but this 12 in 1 approach is new for most players. Give it a try! I’ve included PDF’s with the 12 in 1 approach for all keys for the first 12 licks of Hip Licks. However, do try them by ear for the best results! INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED LEVEL.

LESSON 2: Application of the Diminished Scale over a II-7/V7/Imaj7
In this video lesson, I’ll show you how to apply the diminished scale over the V7 chord in a ii-7/V7/Imaj7. This is a great video to watch if you’ve always wondered just how to implement the diminished scale in a moving phrase. First, I’ll play the idea diatonically, using just the notes of the major key. Next, I’ll explain and demonstrate, how to use the notes of the diminished scale in the phrase. In this video, I teach the lesson while playing the examples on the VIBRAPHONE. The vibraphone is great for this type of training, because it’s visual, making it easy to see what I’m doing as I give harmonic analysis. The vibes are also great for working on your saxophone intonation. When you play along with the vibes in the video, you can easily hear if you’re out of tune, because the sound of the vibes is such a pure tone. In addition, the vibes, allow you to hear multiple notes at once, which is great for hearing in harmonic context. PDF NOTES include transposed examples for all C, Bb and Eb instruments. INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED LEVEL.

LESSON 3: The Four Middle Eb’s of the Saxophone
In this video lesson, I explore four different fingerings for middle Eb on the saxophone. The old-school players like Dexter, Stitt, Getz, Coltrane, Etc., liked to customize the timbre of their notes. Developing the ability to customize the weight and timbre of your notes will add a pro-level touch of detail to everything you play. If you’re not taking advantage of these four middle Eb options every time you play your horn, you’ve been missing out. Join in the fun with these cool sounds! INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.

LESSSON 4: Major 7th Intervals as 3rds & #9ths on V7 Chords
In this video lesson, I’ll show you how to apply the major 7th interval to one of my favorite harmonic settings, using the notes of the interval as the 3rd and #9th on a dominant seventh chord. While this is not technically difficult to play, harmonically speaking, for some players, it will take the ear a little bit of time to get used to the sound. In the video, I demonstrate the sound several different ways, so that it’s easy for your ear to hear the interval in this new setting. I first heard Sonny Stitt use this sound when I was learning to play, and have used it ever since. This sound will add a very nice harmonic edge to your playing. INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED LEVEL.

LESSON 5: Road Tips – The B = ?
Greg shows how to keep your mind focused and sharp even when you’re away from the horn. This music theory game involves thinking of the note “B” as different degrees of major scales.

aprox 30 min

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Module 23