The LJS Podcast is the podcast where you get weekly jazz tips, interviews, stories and advice for becoming a better jazz musician! Hosting the show is the jazz musician behind learnjazzstandards.com, author, and entrepreneur Brent Vaartstra, who’s one goal is to answer any question about playing jazz music you may have. Jazz can be a challenging music to learn and play, but it doesn’t have to be so hard. Each episode features a specific musical challenge that jazz students may come across, where it is discussed and answered. Special jazz guests frequent the show, sharing their expertise on an array of different musical subject matter. Listeners are invited to call in with their jazz questions to the podcast hotline, where it could get answered on a future LJS Podcast episode. Join thousands of other listeners getting free jazz education every week!
https://www.learnjazzstandards.com/podcast
Gesamtlänge aller Episoden: 10 days 5 hours 45 minutes
episode 64: The 3 Steps for Jazz Improvisation
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 ...
episode 63: How Do I Not Forget Jazz Licks I've Learned?
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...
episode 62: How Do I Improvise Over Giant Steps?
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 em...
episode 61: What Are Quartal Voicings and How Do You Use Them?
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 episo...
episode 60: 10 Jazz Solos You Should Learn
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 Mil...
episode 59: How Do I Tell A Story With My Solo (Not Just Licks)?
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 invaluabl...
episode 58: What Software Is Good For Learning Jazz?
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 experie...
episode 57: What Are Drop 2 Voicings and How Are They Useful?
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 m...
episode 56: How to Resolve Your Jazz Lines Effectively?
In this episode, Brent explores the intricacies of resolving licks and lines on chord tones, shedding light on why certain resolutions are more effective than others. Drawing from a listener's question about chord resolutions, he breaks down the importance of targeting specific chord tones like the third and fifth, rather than solely relying on the root note. Through insightful explanations and musical demonstrations, Brent gives guides on how to incorporate these techniques into actual playi...
episode 55: How to Stay Motivated to Practice
In this episode, Brent reflects on the theme of motivation in practicing, an aspect crucial for sustained improvement and progress in jazz and music. With insightful commentary drawn from the experiences of Inner Circle members, he explores the various strategies to stay motivated and inspired on the musical journey. From cultivating a supportive community to setting performance goals and embracing quality education resources, Brent offers a holistic approach to keeping the fire alive in your...