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 5 minutes
episode 30: Best Exercise for Becoming a More Melodic Player
Brent is wrapping up the week on the podcast with a Fast Track Friday episode, reflecting on the fascinating discussions from the week. Topics ranged from bebop scales to the role of music theory in the journey of jazz greats. However, he identifies a potential pitfall: the "patternistic" and linear approach often associated with theory and scales.
In response, Brent introduces a powerful exercise aimed at enhancing your melodic prowess...
episode 31: How to Reharmonize Jazz Standards
Join Brent on another engaging episode of the podcast, where he dives into the captivating world of reharmonization. From basic concepts like tritone substitution to more advanced techniques like re-composition, Brent provides a crash course in reharmonization strategies that will take your jazz playing to the next level...
episode 32: How to Use an Altered Dominant Chord
In this episode of the podcast, Brent delves into the intriguing world of altered dominant seventh chords. From understanding their basic structure to exploring their role in jazz harmony and improvisation, he provides invaluable insights and practical tips to help master this essential aspect of jazz music.
This episode promises to demystify altered dominant seventh chords and elevate your understanding of jazz theory and improvisation...
episode 33: How to Practice Without Your Instrument
In this episode of the Learn Jazz Standards podcast, Brent tackles a common concern voiced by inner circle member Keith about preparing for gigs or recording sessions when away from one's instrument. Offering practical advice and insights, he discusses the importance of staying connected with music even when not physically practicing...
episode 34: The Best Jazz Guitar Albums Ever
In this podcast episode, Brent dives into the realm of jazz guitar albums, offering listeners a curated selection of classics and modern masterpieces. From the pioneering work of Django Reinhardt to the innovative compositions of Kurt Rosenwinkel.
Brent provides a diverse range of albums that capture the essence of jazz guitar...
episode 35: How to Improve Just By Listening to Jazz
Throughout the week, Brent has been uncovering the secrets of a game-changing concept: mastering jazz without touching your instrument. And now, on this Fast Track Friday episode, he's ready to share his ultimate strategy!
Get ready for a sonic adventure as Brent reveals how to dissect jazz recordings like a seasoned pro. Discover the hidden intricacies of your favorite jazz standards by marking their forms and uncovering the rhythmic and harmonic tapestry that lies within...
episode 36: How Can I Play Bebop Solos Without Learning Scales?
In this podcast episode, Brent is back to tackle another round of jazz music questions. Bernard from Germany asks a crucial question: how can he make his solos sound more like bebop without diving deep into learning all the different bebop scales?
Brent dives into the essence of bebop, highlighting its significance as the foundational dialect of jazz...
episode 37: How to Play At Faster Speeds
Dive into the rhythm and speed of jazz with Brent on this latest podcast! In this episode, Brent tackles a question from Peter Bowen about developing an impeccable time feel and playing faster without losing your groove. With Brent's expert guidance, you'll uncover the secrets to mastering both the technical and rhythmic aspects of playing at lightning speeds...
episode 38: What to Do If Your Playing Is Not Improving
This podcast episode discusses about the common struggle of feeling stuck in your musical journey and offers actionable advice to reignite your progress.
Join Brent as he addresses a question from Inner Circle member Eric about overcoming the feeling of stagnation in your jazz playing. You'll gain valuable insights about recognizing and overcoming obstacles that may be hindering your improvement...
episode 39: What's the Best Way to Learn How to Improvise?
In this episode, Brent celebrates his birthday by making a simple request. A question from Rob about how to learn improvisation without extensive music theory knowledge is discussed.
Brent offers a comprehensive approach to improvisation, beginning with a simple yet effective tool. He underscores the importance of experimentation and gradual improvement, encouraging embracing the process of improvisation...