To play jazz and Neo-soul on the piano, one should start by mastering the basic chords and scales. The foundation of jazz and Neo-soul music is based on harmony, so it is important to have a strong understanding of chord progressions and how to voice chords effectively. Additionally, having a solid sense of rhythm and groove is crucial for playing these genres.
One should begin by learning and practicing major and minor triads, as well as dominant 7th chords. These chords are the building blocks of many jazz and Neo-soul progressions. It is also important to understand and practice different types of scales, such as the major, minor, blues, and pentatonic scales. These scales provide the basis for improvisation and soloing in jazz and Neo-soul.
To effectively voice chords, one should practice different chord inversions and voicings. This can include root position chords, as well as first and second inversions. It is also important to practice different types of voicings, such as drop 2 and drop 3 voicings, which are commonly used in jazz and Neo-soul.
To develop a strong sense of rhythm and groove, one should practice playing along with recordings of jazz and Neo-soul music. This will help develop a feel for the style and help to internalize the rhythmic patterns and phrasing commonly used in these genres.
It is also beneficial to study the playing styles of jazz and Neo-soul pianists, such as Herbie Hancock, Robert Glasper, and Chick Corea. Listening to recordings of their music and analyzing their playing can provide valuable insight into the techniques and concepts used in jazz and Neo-soul piano playing.
Additionally, taking lessons with a qualified jazz or Neo-soul piano instructor can provide personalized guidance and feedback on one’s playing. A good instructor can help identify areas that need improvement and provide specific exercises and practice routines to address these areas.
Sources:
- Levine, M. (1989). The jazz piano book. Petaluma, CA: Sher Music Co.
- Glasper, R. (2013). The Robert Glasper experiment: Black radio. Blue Note Records.
- Kernfeld, B. (Ed.). (2002). The new Grove dictionary of jazz. Oxford University Press.
