LESSON 1: Finding the Money Note (b13) on a Diminished Seventh Chord

In this video lesson, I explore what I call a “money note” over a diminished seventh chord. I call it this because I consider it to be a high harmonic value note.

I have always loved the sound that the major composers utilize in their great melodies. Jobim, Porter, Jerome Kern, Johnny Green…they all have this one note choice in common when it comes to their melodic choice over a diminished chord.

This video lesson is given from the piano to provide you with the full harmonic context of the sound. Includes an echo game working with the sound.

LESSON 2: Using Maj7#5 Chord Structures Over Minor ii v i Progressions

n this video lesson, I share my system for applying the Maj7#5 chord structure over a ii mi7b5 / V+7+9 / i mi(maj7) progression.

This approach uses sounds that highlight the extensions of each chord, resulting in a very rich harmonic flavor. Since the chord structures are all the same (maj7#5) and applied to three different chord types, there’s also a beautiful symmetry to the sound.

I demonstrate the concept using the four directions. Includes PDF practice notes for Bb, Eb and C instruments.

LESSON 3: Articulation – Playing with a Fast Airstream

In this video lesson, I discuss one of the common reasons that many aspiring players have difficulty with high-speed articulation. They’re inadvertently slowing down their airstream whenever they move their tongue.

This causes the reed to vibrate at a slower speed and the tonguing feels slow and labored. I demonstrate several phrases with and without articulation and include suggestions for ways that you can practice with these concepts to improve your articulation with a fast airstream.

LESSON 4: Listening Recommendation: Gerry Mulligan – What is There to Say

In this video, I discuss one of my all-time favorite albums, Gerry Mulligan’s “What is There to Say.” This album is great on so many levels…the writing and arranging is superb. Incredible counterpoint and such creative use of the textures in the group.

The solos have a feeling of crackling energy and life to them. It almost feels like a live recording, rather than a studio date. In addition, the engineering is outstanding…it’s like you’re in the room with the group. I also discuss certain aspects of the time feel and how to achieve a relaxed effect at a fast tempo.

LESSON 1: Scale Junction Navigation

In this video lesson, I share my method for connecting various types of scales through a ii V I progression. This is a critical skill for all improvisers, as it gives you the flexibility to switch smoothly from the scale of the current chord to the scale for a new chord Many players are limited in their approach with scales because they think that they need to start each new scale from the root.

This is how scales are often taught in academic settings, but my system shows you how to easily connect the scales through voice-leading, from any note, highlighting the strongest notes in every chord. INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED LEVEL. Includes detailed PDF practice notes for Bb, Eb and C instruments.
.

LESSON 2: Charlie Parker – Use of Bebop Ornamentation

In this video lesson, I analyze Parker’s use and application of bebop ornamentation. Bebop is an ornate style of jazz, sharing some similarities to baroque classical music in its use of ornamentation. Ornamental notes are what I describe as “sudden sixteenths” which are placed within an eighth-note line to add extra detail and sophistication to the line. In this lesson, I take a Parker phrase and break it down, removing all of the ornaments and then showing you how to use these concepts in your own lines, demonstrating with a line that I composed and then enhanced with the application of bebop ornaments in the Parker style.

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

LESSON 3: Locating the 13th of a Chord

The thirteenth is one of the most colorful notes in a chord, and yet, many aspiring players have a difficult time locating and hearing the note. In this video lesson, I show you my system for easily hearing and locating the thirteenth of any chord.

This lesson includes hearing thirteenths over: Maj7, dom7, mi7, mi7b5 and dim7 chords. Intermediate level. Includes detailed PDF practice notes for Bb, Eb and C instruments.

LESSON 4: Listening Recommendation: Mel Torme Swings Shubert Alley

One of my favorite albums! Mel Torme at the height of his powers with beautiful pitch, tone, phrasing, taste, and humor. Marty Paich, one of my favorite arrangers, has created an amazing collection of arrangements of popular standards.

I love his instrumentation and the inclusion of the tuba in this ensemble. The engineering is also incredible on this album. It’s like you’re right there in the studio with the guys. Paich is also quite humorous, having the band slyly quoting “Who’s Sorry Now” and “Easy Living” while Mel is singing the tune “Just in Time.”

The band is an all-star cast of top West Coast players at the time — Jack Sheldon on Trumpet, Frank Rosolino on trombone, Art Pepper on alto, Mel Lewis on drums…A must-have for any collection.

The Echo Game – 60 Chords – Direction 1

In this video lesson, we’ll play what I call, “the echo game.” In this game, I arpeggiate each chord and then leave space for you to “echo” exactly what you heard. For this particular video, I play the chords in what I call “Direction 1,” which means 1-3-5-7, ascending.

This is an ear-training game and there is no written PDF for this lesson (by design). Take your time and do quality work. If you need to just focus on one group of chords, such as the major or dominant, just replay that portion of the video lesson. Use this lesson often to keep your ears sharp, keep up your concentration and review all sixty of your chords, all in a matter of a few minutes. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.

LESSON 2: The Echo Game – 60 Chords – Direction 2

In this video lesson, we’ll play what I call, “the echo game.” In this game, I arpeggiate each chord and then leave space for you to “echo” exactly what you heard. In this video, I’m playing the chords in “Direction 2,” which means 7-5-3-1 for all 60 chords, starting with the major 7th chords, followed by dominant, minor, half-diminished and diminished seventh chords.

This is an ear-training game and there is no written PDF for this lesson (by design). Take your time and do quality work. If you need to just focus on one group of chords, such as the major or dominant, just replay that portion of the video lesson. Use this lesson often to keep your ears sharp, keep up your concentration and review all sixty of your chords, all in a matter of a few minutes. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.

LESSON 3: The Echo Game – 60 Chords – Direction 3

In this video lesson, we’ll play what I call, “the echo game.” In this game, I arpeggiate each chord and then leave space for you to “echo” exactly what you heard. For this particular video, I play the chords in what I call “Direction 3,” which means 1-3-5-7, ascending and then 7-5-3-1 descending on the next chord in the cycle.

This is an ear-training game and there is no written PDF for this lesson (by design). Take your time and do quality work. If you need to just focus on one group of chords, such as the major or dominant, just replay that portion of the video lesson. Use this lesson often to keep your ears sharp, keep up your concentration and review all sixty of your chords, all in a matter of a few minutes. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL & ADVANCED LEVEL.

LESSON 4: The Echo Game – 60 Chords – Direction 4

In this video lesson, we’ll play what I call, “the echo game.” In this game, I arpeggiate each chord and then leave space for you to “echo” exactly what you heard. For this particular video, I play the chords in what I call “Direction 4,” which means 7-5-3-1, descending and then 1-3-5-7, ascending on the next chord in the cycle.

This is an ear-training game and there is no written PDF for this lesson (by design). Take your time and do quality work. If you need to just focus on one group of chords, such as the major or dominant, just replay that portion of the video lesson. Use this lesson often to keep your ears sharp, keep up your concentration and review all sixty of your chords, all in a matter of a few minutes. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL & ADVANCED LEVEL.

LESSON 4: Listening Recommendation: Brasil ’66 – Equinox

One of my favorite pop/brazilian/jazzy groups of the 1960’s, Sergio Mendes and Brasil ’66. This is my favorite album of theirs, though they’re all great.

This one, to me, represents an incredible combination of sophisticated writing and orchestration, great studio production, catchy, interesting tunes and a fun, light character. The time feel is so fun with this group. Nothing dark or brooding, though they do have an emotional range, from introspective, longing ballads to fun, uptempo bossa novas and sambas. If you’re not hip to Brasil ’66, this is a great place to start.

If you like this one, be sure to also pick up their first album, Herb Alpert Presents Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’66. Great stuff!

LESSON 1: Locating the 9th of a Chord

The ninth is one of my favorite notes in a chord. To me, it always feels and sounds elegant and luxurious. And yet, many aspiring players have a difficult time locating and hearing the note. In this video lesson, I show you my system for easily hearing and locating the ninth of any chord.

This lesson includes hearing ninths over: Maj7, dom7, mi7, mi7b5, and dim7 chords. Intermediate & advanced level. Includes detailed PDF practice notes for Bb, Eb, and C instruments.

.

LESSON 2: Hearing a Hidden Melody within an Eighth-Note Line

In this video lesson, I will take phrase of all eighth-notes and reveal to you the hidden melody within that line. I use a short phrase from my etude, “Broadway Street” and deconstruct the line, revealing the melody that I had in mind. From there, I rebuild the phrase, adding an enclosure, approach notes to reconstruct the line.

This lesson provides insights into the compositional process involved in creating melodic eighth-note lines.

INTERMEDIATE LEVEL. Includes PDF practice notes for Bb, Eb and C instruments.

LESSON 3: High Speed Articulation with Halsted Street

In this video lesson, I share my strategies for increasing the speed and smoothness of your articulation when playing fast, consecutive eighth-notes. I use a short phrase from my etude, “Halsted Street” to demonstrate many different approaches to articulation.

The video also includes some discussion of extended articulation techniques, such as the “dooden” tongue and a demonstration of integrating the “dooden” tongue with the “ah-tah,” and staccato tonguing, all while keeping the phrase in tempo. INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED level. Includes PDF practice notes for Bb, Eb and C instruments.

LESSON 4: Listening Recommendation: Oscar Peterson Trio: The Sound of the Trio

This is one of my all-time favorite recordings of the legendary Oscar Peterson trio, featuring Ray Brown and Ed Thigpen. This was recorded in the late 1950s in Chicago at the famous “London House,” a jazz supper club in downtown Chicago.

Artists would be “in residence” for their gig from one to three weeks at a time, playing between five and seven nights a week. This led to a wonderfully relaxed situation, where the artists could focus on the music, well-rested, without the fatigue of playing one-niters around the country.

I can hear the energy and communication present in every note of the album. You’ll even hear glasses clinking in the background. It’s like you’re right there in the room with the group. The record is also beautifully engineered by Val Valentin, for the Verve record label. A must-have for any serious collection.

LESSON 1: Rollins & Coltrane Ornaments

In this video lesson, I demonstrate two of my favorite approaches to bebop ornamentation, based on my observations of Rollins and Coltrane and the way that they dress up their lines with ornaments. Intermediate & Advanced level. Includes detailed PDF practice notes for Bb, Eb and C instruments.

LESSON 2: The Jackpot 7-7-7 – Hearing a major scale over a II V I

In this video lesson, I show my technique for harmonically aligning a major scale over a ii V I. This strategic approach provides great clarity and voice leading, giving you all 3’s, 5’s, 7’s or 9’s over a ii V I while simply playing a diatonic scale.

A key factor is setting up your ear to hear the roots of the chords in relation to the starting note of the line. I demonstrate the process throughout the video lesson. Intermediate & Advanced level. Includes detailed PDF practice notes for Bb, Eb, and C instruments.

LESSON 3: Speed Bag – Cool Minor Lick

In this video lesson, I share one of my favorite minor patterns that I used for working up my technique.

This is a short but very effective lick for improving your precision on the keys, as well as improving alignment between your articulation and fingers. ALL LEVELS. Includes detailed PDF practice notes for Bb, Eb and C instruments.

LESSON 4: Greg’s Philosophy of Music: Playing by Theory vs Playing by Ear

In this video lesson, I discuss the difference between playing by theory and playing by ear. I share many examples from my years as a student and later observations from the perspective of a pro player and teacher.

If you’ve been trying to figure out music theory to make up for the possibility that your ear isn’t all that developed, this video will really shed some light on the reason that the theory (as much as I enjoy it) is no substitute for a highly trained ear. I’m not saying that theory isn’t important, but when it comes to playing jazz and improvising, the ear must be first, not the intellect.

LESSON 5: Listening Recommendation: Frank Sinatra: Point of No Return

For me, Frank Sinatra was the greatest singer, ever. He had it all…perfect intonation, diction, dynamics…the way he could tell the story of the lyrics in a way that felt like he was speaking directly to the listener. And, his phrasing…the breath control…astounding.

This album isn’t one of the most popular, like Live at the Sands, or Come Fly With Me (both equally good, but different). This is a mellow, introspective Sinatra, not the ring-a-ding Sinatra. Axel Stordahl’s arrangements are great examples of beautiful, clear, uncluttered orchestration. Like all of Sinatra’s Capital album’s, the engineering is top notch, sounding like it was recorded today.

LESSON 1: Mirrored Intervals

In this video lesson, I share a concept that I call “mirrored intervals.” By this terminology, I’m referring to the sound of playing, let’s say, an E up to a G, and then playing the same E again, but dropping to the G below. The result is that you’ll go up a minor third and the “mirrored” interval produced when you drop down to the G below E will be a major sixth. One of my favorite players, Gene Ammons uses this device quite a bit in his solos. In this lesson, I’ll demonstrate several ways to practice this concept and get it into your playing. Intermediate & Advanced level. Includes detailed PDF practice notes for Bb, Eb and C instruments.

LESSON 2: Fixing the Break: How to play smoothly from C to D

One problem for many aspiring saxophonists is “the break,” which is the part of the horn that switches from the lower register, without the octave key, to the upper register, with the octave key. The break can be especially challenging when going from middle “C” to middle “D.” The thing that many aspiring players don’t realize is that while there’s just one key to press on the horn, there are actually two octave keys. One is located on the neck, and the other is located on the body of the horn. In this video lesson, I demonstrate both the problem and the solution. Includes close-up camera shots of my hands as I play the horn. If you’ve ever wanted to smooth out your transitions from the low register to the middle register of the horn, this video will immediately put you on the right path.
CLICK HERE to download PDF lesson materials

LESSON 3: The Harmonic Minor Scale

In this video lesson, I demonstrate the harmonic minor scale, first comparing it to the major scale, and then showing how to use it strategically over a minor ii / V / I. I also demonstrate the scale in 3rds in the four directions, followed by an improvisation on the scale. Includes detailed PDF practice notes for Bb, Eb & C instruments. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.

LESSON 4: Greg’s Philosophy of Music: It’s Bigger than You and Me

In this video lesson, I discuss my thoughts about a student who came to me feeling down about his playing. He is a good student. He practices a lot. He always shows up prepared for the lessons. I’m proud of his progress. And yet, he had such negative feelings about his playing that he was considering quitting.

I shared my personal philosophy about music with him and told him about my own experience with feelings of frustration and self-doubt as a younger player. After I shared these thoughts with him, we proceeded to have a fantastic lesson and by the end of the lesson, he was feeling much better about things. I hope that you enjoy the video.

LESSON 5: Listening Recommendation: Cannonball Adderley – Somethin’ Else

An all-time classic 1958 Blue Note album. Miles Davis rarely appeared as a sideman after his time with Charlie Parker, but he made a rare exception and appeared on this Cannonball album. There’s great chemistry between all of the players on this album.

The vibe, the grooves…this is one of those albums that just sets a great mood and when it’s finished playing, you want to play it all over again. My favorite track, “One for Daddy-O” features one of my all-time favorite alto solo breaks. Also includes classic renditions of “Autumn Leaves” and “Love for Sale.” A must for all jazz collections.

LESSON 1: Exploring Hip Lick #9

In this video lesson, I explore Hip Lick #9, extending the lick with the same ii / V chords, as well as making the lick resolve to a I maj7 chord. I also demonstrate the effect of starting the lick in four different locations; beats 1,2,3 & 4. In addition, I also demonstrate the lick in 12 keys. Includes detailed PDF practice notes for Bb, Eb & C instruments. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.

LESSON 2: Major II V I vs. minor II V I – Apples to Apples Comparison

In this video lesson, I’ll give you an “apples-to-apples” comparison of a line played over a major ii / V / I and then that same line, harmonically adapted to fit a minor ii / V / i. If you’ve ever felt unsure about the sound of the minor ii / V / I, this video will put things clearly into focus. Includes detailed PDF practice notes for Bb, Eb and C instruments. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.

LESSON 3: Bebop line over the bridge of “I Got Rhythm” from Two Voice-leading Lines

In this video lesson, I show you how I constructed a Bebop eighth-note line over the bridge of “I Got Rhythm,” using two voice-leading lines to nail the changes. Next time you’re playing “Oleo,” play this line on the bridge, and you’ll hear how clearly this approach outlines the changes. In the lesson, first I’ll play the eight-measure line for you and then I’ll deconstruct it, going step-by-step through the process I used to construct the line. Some very good and practical information about using the Bebop scale in this lesson, as well. Includes detailed PDF practice notes for Bb, Eb and C instruments. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.

LESSON 4: Palm Key Hand Position Exercise

In this video lesson, I share my system for fixing years of poor palm key finger positioning. Most intermediate players, or even advanced players with poor left-hand palm key technique, tend to play with flat, straight fingers when it comes to playing the palm keys.

This causes a lack of fluency when switching between the palm keys and the lower range of the horn. In order to achieve fluency of technique, you will need to keep the fingers as curved as possible while pressing the palm keys. This lesson presents a three-step approach to gaining control over the palm keys.

There are no PDF notes with this lesson, as it’s best that you watch the video and imitate the moves on your horn. INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED LEVEL.

LESSON 5: Listening Recommendation: Stan Getz – Focus

This Stan Getz masterpiece from 1961 is simply like no other record. This was Stan’s own favorite album of all of his many wonderful recordings. It’s a suite of seven pieces with a string orchestra, composed and arranged by the great Eddie Sauter.

Stan’s part is completely improvised, and the freshness and searching quality of his improvisations make this a truly unique classic. It’s not “straight-ahead,” though. Sort of a hybrid between jazz and classical. Highly recommended.

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: 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 1: The Cycle – Red & Blue Card System by Greg Fishman
In this video lesson, I share my unique system for learning the cycle by combining two whole-tone scales. While I’ve shared this concept of using these scales in a previous video, I’ve had many requests to demonstrate my “shuffled cards” analogy on camera.

This lesson takes the cycle and puts it on a visual plane, making it very easy to remember. If you’ve ever had any difficulty with memorizing the cycle, this video will immediately clear things up! Be sure to have your instrument out so that you can play along as I hold up the cards and explain how the two decks will combine to form the cycle. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.

LESSON 2: Speedbag with Major 2nds
Speedbag with Major 2nds
In this video lesson, I work with page 23 from my book, “Intervals in Action,” to show you how I use the “speedbag” technique with Major 2nd intervals to increase and improve the speed, accuracy and control of my technique on the saxophone. INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED LEVEL. Includes a PDF of the page from the book that was used in the video.

LESSON 3: Major 2nd Video Lesson – Intervals in Action
In this video lesson, I demonstrate many different practice strategies for working with Section 1 of the book “Intervals in Action.” Topics covered include: Creating new rhythms, playing the intervals in a 5/4 time, playing in retrograde (backwards), playing in tritone pairs, and more! Includes a PDF of the full page used in the video lesson. INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED.

---

---

---

LESSON 1: 6 Essential Elements – The Six of Diamonds
In this video, I share what I consider to be the six essential elements needed to sound like a professional player. I demonstrate the elements through an original blues tune, titled “The Six of Diamonds.”

The six essential elements are: 1) Notes 2) Rhythm 3) Articulation 4) Dynamics 5) Terminal Vibrato 6) Timbral Shadings. The importance of each element is explained in the video lesson. Includes detailed PDF lesson notes in C, Bb and Eb. ALL LEVELS

LESSON 2: Breathing – Video Lesson
In this video lesson, I share my approach to breathing. If you’ve ever felt short of breath while playing or felt that your tone was a bit thin, this lesson is a must. In addition to the technique of breathing, I also discuss jaw position on the mouthpiece while breathing, as well as my thoughts on long tones. ALL LEVELS. Includes PDF text notes with bullet-point lesson summary.

LESSON 3: Getting more impact from your short notes
In this video, I share my approach for getting more impact from short notes. There is a big distinction in the way that a pro player approaches short notes in the middle of a phrase.

The issue is whether the short note is slurred into or tongued as it is played. I demonstrate the two approaches and provide examples to help train your ear to clearly hear the difference between a “low impact” and “high impact” short note. If you want pro-like short notes in your lines, this lesson is essential, and a total game-changer. ALL LEVELS. Includes PDF lesson notes.

---

---

---

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.

---

---

---