By Matt Falker
Are you interested in learning to play chords from a lead sheet? This comprehensive method will guide you through: fundamental piano techniques, playing triads and seventh chords, interpreting jazz chord symbols, achieving smooth voice leading between chords, and mastering ii-V-I progressions using just three notes. Although the title of this DVD is Jazz Piano For Singers, it serves as a valuable resource for anyone aiming to learn the most prevalent chords and chord progressions found in lead sheets. This approach will take you through a systematic process of learning to play in every key, equipping you with skills for self-accompaniment, collaboration with other musicians, practicing improvisation, or simply creating chord changes. The DVD encompasses content comparable to a first-semester college-level jazz piano course and is suitable for personal study or as a foundation for classroom instruction. Stay tuned for Volume 2, which will delve into more advanced voicings.
Bonus Material: Practice worksheets are available for download and printing to assist with your practice sessions, provided in the universal PDF format.
Matt Falker is currently a member of the jazz faculty at the University of Southern California, MiraCosta College, and California State University, Northridge, where he directs vocal jazz ensembles and teaches jazz piano and related subjects. He earned his undergraduate degree in jazz piano from Western Michigan University and his graduate degree in jazz voice from the University of Southern California. An active performer and clinician on an international scale, he participated in the 2006 IAJE Teacher Training Institute as a member of the vocal jazz faculty and served as the vocal jazz representative on the Southern California Vocal Association Executive Board. He has also been a guest conductor for both the All-State Collegiate Vocal Jazz Ensemble and the LAUSD Middle School Honors Chorus, with his vocal arrangements published by UNC Jazz Press. Additionally, he plays keyboards for the Los Angeles Chapter of the Gospel Music Workshop of America.