Hello Kent, this video on syncopation in jazz (Fly me to moon) was particularly useful and enlightening to me. I have musical knowledge applied to electronic organs but I'm trying to acquire the piano technique for my left hand because, as you know, it's totally different as to both instruments. If you can recommend one of your videos that addresses the use of the left hand (rhythm, chords, etc.), I would be very grateful. Thank you very much for sharing.
I appreciate the comment and question. I have a playlist on Chords and Comping Tutorials. In that playlist there are a couple of videos that show and talk about left hand voicings in depth. To view the playlist (click on View Full Playlist and you'll see a list to choose from:) ua-cam.com/channels/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCw.htmlplaylists
Alright so I’m out here looking for some info on jazz phrasing and what not. I find this video with exactly what looking for. This guy comes out dressed to the nines and quotes Ram Das. Now I’m hooked
the timing of jazz singers or jazz inspired singers has always eluded me. It seemed to me that they were following their own beat that kind of flowed fluidly on top of the the music of the band. And even when I memorised let's say Frank Sinatra's timing of a particular song, someone else might have their own melodic interpretation. Even more so, the same singer can change it up in the moment when they're performing live. Mind boggling, how do they do it!? I think your video on jazz rhythm is great, especially the long/short on the beat/off the beat part. This video gives me the tools to listen more closely to singers with great prhasing/syncopation. Thanks!
Great comment/question. Yes....all singers interpret the phrasing and timing accourding to their musical personality and concepts. I tried to show that in jazz you can phrase the way you hear it and feel it...which is unlike reading a score or in classical music. That is what makes all jazz musicians and singers sound different and very personal.
Feel is a tough thing to explain. Fortunately I've got 35 years of drumming to help me with that one. Just need to get my fingers to go where their supposed to and get the hands working together. I liked you comparison of Latin, Ragtime, and Jazz feels. As always, thank you for sharing your talent and wisdom with us!
That's a great comment, Paul, it definitely helps if you're a drummer because you have internalized the time and rhythm. (although some drummers I've played with should practice with a metronome!...sorry)
Kent, I so deeply feel your spirit in all your tutorials, during play and while you speak. You are one soulful dude! I use your book to guide me along and it’s such a great resource that has wonderfully captured your teachings. Also, deeply appreciate the Ram Dass quotes...that last one gets to the ground of being and the creativity that we merely express the me that we are at the core. Love and appreciate your work always! Deepest thanks always!
This is such a great explanation. Not just the technical aspects, but being able to go back and forth listening to the difference. Respect. Being able to contrast the straight 7:53 with the swung 8:50 is really helpful indeed. Also love the attitude and encouragement for self expression.
@@KentHewittpiano88 Kent, the short version is in how well you simplify and explain complex concepts. If you'd like me to expand, please PM me and I'll elaborate privately. Thanks!
I like your "Fly Me To The Moon" examples. I'd been a piano player for decades and never knew those rhythm techniques but will try it out. No wonder when I try out w/ bass players or bands they fold up and say goodbye to me. That's why I play solo in noisy restaurants and not at clubs. You got my subscribe positively.
I understand perfectly...I've been there myself. For many years I played solo piano in bars...but I always came back to trios and quartets ...and duos...they are the best,.... esp duos.
Bruce, you are a buddy! I like to think I learned how to swing. Playing in jazz clubs and listening to a lot of the giants of jazz has helped with that, I hope!
I listen to a lot of my favorite players. I listen to you when I’m learning a piece like don’t get around much anymore and fly me to the moon. I think by listening to you it helps me swing. I pick up on the written arrangement fairly easily. Then improvising is do much more difficult for me. Still trying to work outa good path without getting overwhelmed with all that’s out there. My theory knowledge is way ahead of my improvising. Thank you for all your help and inspiration.
Thank you Ken. I’m a novice jazz piano student and this video is very helpful for me at the moment. I have just started to get into improvisation and I’m losing melodic and rhythm ideas. By breaking it down in your videos with examples and, most importantly, practice ideas I grasp it more. It also helps that you offered like rhythmic tips as well.
As well as looking incredibly dapper, Kent, this is a brilliant video, that has itself got as much swing as the patterns and phrases you're getting me to realise are essential to get properly immersed into a jazz psyche. The tune reminds me of my grandfather playing his Frank Sinatra vinyl records, seemingly drifting away somewhere, but immersed in his whisky, through haze of cigar smoke, I was too small to realise he was swinging. Thanks so much again Kent.
Stephen, you don't know how lucky you were. At least in that way. My father was a square... he and my mother didn't understand me.....but they were always kind. Thanks so much!
Good to be back...thanks. Actually I started this lesson more than a week ago, but couldn't finish it, then added things, slept on it, then added things, ...you know...
looking at a lot of jazz lessons at the moment and this is by far the clearest explanation of syncopation i have seen. cheers kent. terry London, England.
I've been looking at various UA-cam videos on syncopation.This video was the most helpful,explaining syncopation in a way that's easy to understand with practical examples.Thank you so much for this Kent!
Kent Hewitt you can’t please everyone all the time. 😀 I’ve found there’s not a lot of good material readily available beyond the beginning levels. Your channel gives me a taste of more advanced techniques and still keeps it fun.
Kent, the swinging solo you play at 20:13 is absolutely gorgeous-- so much so that I am seriously considering taking a week to transcribe it. I could hear the spirit of Bill Evans in your solo, and I say that sincerely. Early this morning I discovered two Bill Evans albums that moved me so much I want to tell you about them. The first is an album called, 'Very Early Vol. 1: 1943-1949 by Bill Evans". Bill Evans was born in 1929, so the first track on this album was made when Bill was 14 years old. He "had it" at age 14, to say the least. The second album is called, "Bill Evans Practice Tape No.1". It includes recordings of Bill playing Bach and Maurice Ravel. Juxtaposed to this, I also listened today to a piano solo played by Bill Evans' older brother Harry Evans. You can hear the Harry Evans album in its entirely on the tribute web site his wife and son created. ( www.harryevanstrio.com/ ). It is immediately apparent when you compare Bill Evans at age 14 to his brother Harry Evans at the height of his career (Harry Evans was a professor of music at a university), that Bill Evans was a once in a century towering musical genius, unlike his brother Harry who simply loved music but did not have the rare, God given genius talent his brother Bill was born with. My point here is that for those of us who love music but do not have genius, it is enough to simply love jazz and to enjoy the process of learning as much as we can about it, knowing all the while we will never be one one hundredth as good as Bill Evans.
That's right, if I could no longer play the piano I would still enjoy my life listening to all the great music that has been recorded, both jazz and classical. I like other styles as well, but those are my 2 favorites, and that's more than enough to deal with. I met Bill a couple times, the 2nd time I was playing in a quartet that opened for his trio in Hartford. That was the year he died, I believe 1980. I can't imagine a world without Bill Evans. Thanks for sharing the recordings!.
In your book, on page 75, in the top left corner, you write a note, that the 8ths are swing 8ths. It's not clear to me if the swing 8ths are already written in the music sheet on that page and I just play according to what is written... or that in the music sheet on that page it is written as straight 8ths and I need to play it as swing 8ths... Love your book. I find it very helpful!
They are written on the score as straight 8ths, (which is usually the case.) However they should be played as swing 8ths. It's a swing tune; if it was given a bossa nova interpretation it would be played with straight 8ths. I explain this is a number of my videos Thanks for the comment and I'm glad you like my book and I hope people are reading this! Cheers!
Your demo at the end of the video is VERY good !! So good that the metronom sounds like an instrument ! Thank you for this nice and helpful piano lesson.
Hi Kent, I've been singing jazz on and off for quite a few years now. You'd think I'd know alot about reading music and syncopation but I don't, well not enough anyway. It would be great if you could team up with a jazz singer for some tutorials, beginner or otherwise. Great video, thanks. I love the piano which is what drew me to your video.
Thanks for the comment. It's a good suggestion and something I have considered doing. I did a video on accompanying yourself ...piano and vocals , here: ua-cam.com/video/Adu9V6BYbNI/v-deo.html
Those are the most difficult aspects to learn in jazz. I have some videos that might help , in my playlists . But I need to do more. Thanks. ua-cam.com/users/KentHewittpiano88playlists
What a wonderful video! Everything was explained clearly and there was not a second of padding. I'm probably too old to start learning the piano but I'm going to give it a bash anyway!
By padding, I guess you mean... I got to the essence of the issue, no? You're never too old, music can bring so much joy to your life, and others, and what you learn and practice will always reap rewards,
@@KentHewittpiano88 Yes, you were concise and to the point but it didn't seem rushed either - you got the pace just right too! Yes, music has brought me a lot of joy already. I'm a flute player.
Yes it is true spiritual journey is individual for me playing experimenting on my violin is best for mind and body. It is a communication with my soul. I love your channels.
Wow! Lots to think about here! I ran into something like this with "If I Only Had a Brain" from the Wizard of Oz. That song has a particular bounce to it which is a little jazzy.
Really like the solo at end on Fly Me. If you have transcription of right hand could you post it? If not that's cool I will probably do it from the video. Keep the quotes coming too - love it.
wow this video really helped me differentiate jazz from other music genres and understand what makes jazz so special.I have this presentation i have to do about jazz music and im definetely adding this video there about the syncopation and the swing details.I have a lot in my plate right now and I dont want it to be too much,so i wanted to ask your professional advice,what are some jazz essantials i shouldnt miss and that u would suggest me to implant in my jazz presentation? I hope to hear from you soon,best regards Mr.Hewitt!
Well, definitely the underlying jazz swing rhythm is most important. Probably next is improvisation.... creating melodies on the spur of the moment. Withing that concept is the idea of interpreting a melody not literally the way it was composed, but phrasing the melody how you as a player personally would interpret it. Also jazz has more complex or sophisticated harmonies, and syncopation, both in chords and melody, Syncopation is when you accent the notes that are not on the downbeat, or the primary beat, but are on the upbeats (off beats) . That gives jazz it's distinct rhythmic feeling.
Thanks for the lesson, Kent. A question, if you don't mind: when improvising lines, are there any rules or guidelines to be followed in deciding which notes to accent and which to cut short?
Oh yes, I have videos on that. Go to my Playlists....it is too complex a subject to answer in this box. Write to my email for more info. ua-cam.com/users/KentHewittpiano88playlists
All your RH info today was great, what I strive for. My issue is my LH rhythm. Your example at the end was awesome, this is how I want to play. But even 8f I duplicated your RH perfectly it would not sound the same because I don't know proper rhythm for my LH. Please, what is the rhythm for the LH? Thank you.
Please go to my playlists on chords and comping . I have some videos in there specifically about LH comping and rhythm. ua-cam.com/channels/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCw.htmlplaylists
Do you have a video where you teach actually how to put it together with both hands. I can play the right hand melody no problem with syncopated rythm but the skill is in putting it together with both hands.
You could check out this video which might help with that: ua-cam.com/video/cR-ki8-VlhE/v-deo.html Also watch my videos on comping, especially left hand comping against the melody. ua-cam.com/play/PLFuMibnl_h5abmY90whS2VekI4jABbFUo.html
5:30 Am I missing something? The ragtime is supposed to be 3 to 1 and the jazz is supposed to be 2 to 1, but you play both examples more like 5 to 1. What you're saying they should sound like and what you're playing appear to be completely different things. 6:34 Same here. You say ragtime is like a dotted eighth and a sixteenth (3 to 1) but then you play in triplets (2 to 1). It's basically the same as the jazz that follows it but you play the ragtime staccato and the jazz legato. Happy to be corrected but for a basics lesson this all seems very confusing.
There is a difference... I'm sorry you don't hear it. The ragtime feel is distinctively different than the jazz swing, but it's a subtle difference. If you listen to a couple of the videos I've done on Stride piano (go to my playlists) and then compare them to the standards videos that I improvise on, the difference in feel may be more apparent to you. Some ragtime pieces, like Maple Leaf Rag and The Entertainer, the 8ths notes are straight 8ths.
Hi Kent, i love your finger poppin daddy videos...thank you! I have a problem... I learn to play "Maple Leaf Rag by Scott Joplin" a few years ago for my grade nine conservatory exam. Memorized it without a clue about the theroy... I was told not to swing just read the music straight. Now I only play it exactly how it is written.... what should i do to get a better grasp of this piece?
That is perhaps Joplin's most famous composition next to The Entertainer. It's not an easy piece to play. I learned it a while back but I don't play much ragtime now because of a 5th finger problem. Those 8th notes are intended to be straight 8ths, that is how the piece is suppose to be played. Have you listened to any master stride players perform it?. Here's a link to one of the masters; Dick Hyman , giving you a lesson using that song as an example. ua-cam.com/video/Eo_365T1B2o/v-deo.html (you can find anything on UA-cam)That might give you some insight. It's very helpful to know more theory to understand how to play a piece, particularly for memorization. I rely on my theory knowledge for memorization, plus some other things help with that.
I've done numerous requests...it all depends on whether I like the song and know it well enough to do a good job...or I want to learn it for my own benefit.... as well as yours.
How did you discover Hal? I have compadres that played with him, but I have not had the pleasure . Years ago I enjoyed playing free form and avant guarde. Recent years I've come back to playing and enjoying mainstream, mostly because it was impossible to get gigs otherwise. I respect the musicians that play that type of music, even though in this country, verses Europe, they don't have the same following, When I toured Germany years ago they loved the modern alternative jazz. There's more appreciation for jazz there. It's not appreciated the same in the US. As an example, this excellent video w/ Hal has 22 thousand views and only 7 comments. That tells you something. ua-cam.com/video/EPNOdLba_cQ/v-deo.html Of course if you're John Coltrane, you're going to pack the clubs, because that is genius, and it's the 60's.
I was checking out weeklypiano.com on UA-cam. One of the players I follow and he had a guest on. Ruslan Sirota. Well Ruslan was giving good advice on improvising and he mentioned a book and CDs by Hal Crook “- how to improvise” said we’d be forever grateful. So I bought from amazon and another called “ready, aim, improvise “ I think a companion to the first. Just got one last week and one yesterday and am diving in. Very very thorough. I’m excited. I love your book to. I’m slowing your solo down on fly me to the moon and trying to pick up a few things. I really like they way you solo on all that you do.
The greatest exponent of syncopation was undoubtedly Scott Joplin, but he did not swing. If you don't swing but want to listen to lots of good Jazz by the old masters until you FEEL the swing. there is a subtle difference to syncopation that is hard to explain, it can not be notated. you just have to feel it.
That's right, I won't argue your point. This was not an easy concept to convey, you can try to analyze it and break it down, but in the end you have to feel it. The fascinating thing is that so many great jazz pianists felt it differently ...but they still were great. For example...compare Bill Evans with Ahmad Jamal, or George Shearing with Erroll Garner.
Hello Kent, this video on syncopation in jazz (Fly me to moon) was particularly useful and enlightening to me. I have musical knowledge applied to electronic organs but I'm trying to acquire the piano technique for my left hand because, as you know, it's totally different as to both instruments. If you can recommend one of your videos that addresses the use of the left hand (rhythm, chords, etc.), I would be very grateful. Thank you very much for sharing.
I appreciate the comment and question. I have a playlist on Chords and Comping Tutorials. In that playlist there are a couple of videos that show and talk about left hand voicings in depth. To view the playlist (click on View Full Playlist and you'll see a list to choose from:) ua-cam.com/channels/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCw.htmlplaylists
Wow ur a great teacher ! glad I found ur channel. I starting to understand because of this lesson. 🙏
Alright so I’m out here looking for some info on jazz phrasing and what not. I find this video with exactly what looking for. This guy comes out dressed to the nines and quotes Ram Das. Now I’m hooked
Beautiful comment...you are a bro!
Excellent explanation. Perfect addition to your books. Thank you
I'm glad you told me!
what a beautiful soul you are thank you for all these insights ..all the love
Wonderful words! All the love to you too...Christina,.
the timing of jazz singers or jazz inspired singers has always eluded me. It seemed to me that they were following their own beat that kind of flowed fluidly on top of the the music of the band. And even when I memorised let's say Frank Sinatra's timing of a particular song, someone else might have their own melodic interpretation. Even more so, the same singer can change it up in the moment when they're performing live. Mind boggling, how do they do it!? I think your video on jazz rhythm is great, especially the long/short on the beat/off the beat part. This video gives me the tools to listen more closely to singers with great prhasing/syncopation.
Thanks!
Great comment/question. Yes....all singers interpret the phrasing and timing accourding to their musical personality and concepts. I tried to show that in jazz you can phrase the way you hear it and feel it...which is unlike reading a score or in classical music. That is what makes all jazz musicians and singers sound different and very personal.
Thank you! Best wishes from Argentina
Same to you!
Great lesson useful !Thanks Dear Kent !
Thanks for telling me!
Thanks ,Kent.
It’s really helpful.
Bravo demonstration
So much taught in this brief video. Brilliantly done Sir! Thank you.
That's a great comment and affirmation...thanks!
Feel is a tough thing to explain. Fortunately I've got 35 years of drumming to help me with that one. Just need to get my fingers to go where their supposed to and get the hands working together. I liked you comparison of Latin, Ragtime, and Jazz feels. As always, thank you for sharing your talent and wisdom with us!
That's a great comment, Paul, it definitely helps if you're a drummer because you have internalized the time and rhythm. (although some drummers I've played with should practice with a metronome!...sorry)
One of the best classes I have ever seen, on any topic. Thank you so much Mr. Hewitt.
That's a big compliment and very helpful to me...thanks!
Great lesson and great teacher...
Kent, I so deeply feel your spirit in all your tutorials, during play and while you speak. You are one soulful dude! I use your book to guide me along and it’s such a great resource that has wonderfully captured your teachings. Also, deeply appreciate the Ram Dass quotes...that last one gets to the ground of being and the creativity that we merely express the me that we are at the core. Love and appreciate your work always! Deepest thanks always!
That's wonderful, Joe. Thanks so much for telling me...please write to my email sometime, so we can connect.
Hi Kent! I look forward to your videos.
Thanks!
This was great! Thank you.
Thank you!
Hi Kent...beautiful..
The lesson..very good.
Glad you enjoyed it
@@KentHewittpiano88 Hi...Kent ..Merry Christmas..
I see now your vídeos here!.
One of the best classes I have ever seen about swing!
That's a great comment...thanks!
This is such a great explanation. Not just the technical aspects, but being able to go back and forth listening to the difference. Respect.
Being able to contrast the straight 7:53 with the swung 8:50 is really helpful indeed.
Also love the attitude and encouragement for self expression.
Kent. You may be the best music teacher on the planet!
Please tell me more...I need to know why You think so.
@@KentHewittpiano88 Kent, the short version is in how well you simplify and explain complex concepts. If you'd like me to expand, please PM me and I'll elaborate privately. Thanks!
Thank you for the basics of swing. It really cleared up a lot confusion!
I think of this lesson as being too obvious, but then I try to think about what I didn't know when I was a beginner (with jazz.)
I like your "Fly Me To The Moon" examples. I'd been a piano player for decades and never knew those rhythm techniques but will try it out. No wonder when I try out w/ bass players or bands they fold up and say goodbye to me. That's why I play solo in noisy restaurants and not at clubs. You got my subscribe positively.
I understand perfectly...I've been there myself. For many years I played solo piano in bars...but I always came back to trios and quartets ...and duos...they are the best,.... esp duos.
Thank you for this lession! It's so enlightening.
You're so welcome!
Brilliant way to explain things.
Glad you think so!
Thanks Kent. You sure were swinging from 21 minutes on!!! Love it. Always inspiring. Great lesson! Fly me to the moon never sounded better!!
Bruce, you are a buddy! I like to think I learned how to swing. Playing in jazz clubs and listening to a lot of the giants of jazz has helped with that, I hope!
I listen to a lot of my favorite players. I listen to you when I’m learning a piece like don’t get around much anymore and fly me to the moon. I think by listening to you it helps me swing. I pick up on the written arrangement fairly easily. Then improvising is do much more difficult for me. Still trying to work outa good path without getting overwhelmed with all that’s out there. My theory knowledge is way ahead of my improvising. Thank you for all your help and inspiration.
Thank you Ken. I’m a novice jazz piano student and this video is very helpful for me at the moment. I have just started to get into improvisation and I’m losing melodic and rhythm ideas. By breaking it down in your videos with examples and, most importantly, practice ideas I grasp it more. It also helps that you offered like rhythmic tips as well.
You're very welcome!
Thank you so much Mr Hewitt. I was under confusion between the ragtime and jazz rhythm.
Glad to help out.... swing loose!
That really helped.... thank you
So happy!
As well as looking incredibly dapper, Kent, this is a brilliant video, that has itself got as much swing as the patterns and phrases you're getting me to realise are essential to get properly immersed into a jazz psyche. The tune reminds me of my grandfather playing his Frank Sinatra vinyl records, seemingly drifting away somewhere, but immersed in his whisky, through haze of cigar smoke, I was too small to realise he was swinging. Thanks so much again Kent.
Stephen, you don't know how lucky you were. At least in that way. My father was a square... he and my mother didn't understand me.....but they were always kind. Thanks so much!
Again again iwill listen this really it's fantastic , my dear best pianist Kent sir..👍👍
Thank you so much!
My man, good to have you back!!! :)
Good to be back...thanks. Actually I started this lesson more than a week ago, but couldn't finish it, then added things, slept on it, then added things, ...you know...
Incredible! Thank you.
Thanks so much!
looking at a lot of jazz lessons at the moment and this is by far the clearest explanation of syncopation i have seen. cheers kent. terry London, England.
That's a great endorsement, Terry, and very helpful to me. to keep going. Many thanks!
Thank you. I´m a guitar player and this was really helpful as well!!
So glad you told me...love the guitar!!
thank you very much for your lesson , it help me lot .All the best for you ! Marcel from Poland . guit.
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks Kent for the vero good lesson on jazz rithm, also for guitarists. It si the best I’ve found in UA-cam. 👍
Great compliment...thanks!
thank you for basics...very good !👍
You are welcome!
I enjoy listening to synchopation.
Thanks, can't have jazz without it.
fantastic video Kent! Couldn't be clearer and your impro are great as always..Thanks so much and keep up the good work!
Wonderful comment...and much appreciated!
top dude!!! love you man!!
Appreciate it!
I've been looking at various UA-cam videos on syncopation.This video was the most helpful,explaining syncopation in a way that's easy to understand with practical examples.Thank you so much for this Kent!
Makes me feel so good...thanks!
As an amateur I only recently began focusing on rhythms and this vid answers a lot of questions. Great as always.
That's really helpful to me...you cannot know, I mean ...I really need to hear that to know if what I'm doing is positive.
Kent Hewitt you can’t please everyone all the time. 😀
I’ve found there’s not a lot of good material readily available beyond the beginning levels. Your channel gives me a taste of more advanced techniques and still keeps it fun.
You are such a good teacher, Kent. Thank you
You are very welcome
Thx! Like your zen like way of playing !
I appreciate the comment...you might like this: ua-cam.com/video/pX886gdcfz0/v-deo.html
Awesome video
Thanks for the visit!
As always.......awesome.
Thank you, DrDee!
Thank you for everything Kent....hear... you saying that to yourself man.
Right back at you, brother! Much appreciation!
Kent, the swinging solo you play at 20:13 is absolutely gorgeous-- so much so that I am seriously considering taking a week to transcribe it. I could hear the spirit of Bill Evans in your solo, and I say that sincerely.
Early this morning I discovered two Bill Evans albums that moved me so much I want to tell you about them. The first is an album called, 'Very Early Vol. 1: 1943-1949 by Bill Evans". Bill Evans was born in 1929, so the first track on this album was made when Bill was 14 years old. He "had it" at age 14, to say the least. The second album is called, "Bill Evans Practice Tape No.1". It includes recordings of Bill playing Bach and Maurice Ravel.
Juxtaposed to this, I also listened today to a piano solo played by Bill Evans' older brother Harry Evans. You can hear the Harry Evans album in its entirely on the tribute web site his wife and son created. ( www.harryevanstrio.com/ ). It is immediately apparent when you compare Bill Evans at age 14 to his brother Harry Evans at the height of his career (Harry Evans was a professor of music at a university), that Bill Evans was a once in a century towering musical genius, unlike his brother Harry who simply loved music but did not have the rare, God given genius talent his brother Bill was born with.
My point here is that for those of us who love music but do not have genius, it is enough to simply love jazz and to enjoy the process of learning as much as we can about it, knowing all the while we will never be one one hundredth as good as Bill Evans.
That's right, if I could no longer play the piano I would still enjoy my life listening to all the great music that has been recorded, both jazz and classical. I like other styles as well, but those are my 2 favorites, and that's more than enough to deal with. I met Bill a couple times, the 2nd time I was playing in a quartet that opened for his trio in Hartford. That was the year he died, I believe 1980. I can't imagine a world without Bill Evans. Thanks for sharing the recordings!.
I've told my son this same thing at the beginning of your lesson many times...bravo...
Bravo, ,,, to you Rob, for being a great dad. That's awesome...thanks for telling me!
In your book, on page 75, in the top left corner, you write a note, that the 8ths are swing 8ths.
It's not clear to me if the swing 8ths are already written in the music sheet on that page and I just play according to what is written... or that in the music sheet on that page it is written as straight 8ths and I need to play it as swing 8ths...
Love your book. I find it very helpful!
They are written on the score as straight 8ths, (which is usually the case.) However they should be played as swing 8ths. It's a swing tune; if it was given a bossa nova interpretation it would be played with straight 8ths. I explain this is a number of my videos Thanks for the comment and I'm glad you like my book and I hope people are reading this! Cheers!
@@KentHewittpiano88 thank you very much for your answer.
Thanks Kent. Really appreciate your wonderful work. Cheers
Thanks so much for the videos, they really help.
I appreciate your telling me.
Your demo at the end of the video is VERY good !! So good that the metronom sounds like an instrument ! Thank you for this nice and helpful piano lesson.
That's a great compliment...because I talk about making friends w/ the metronome, so I'm glad I achieved that goal.
Hi Kent, I've been singing jazz on and off for quite a few years now. You'd think I'd know alot about reading music and syncopation but I don't, well not enough anyway. It would be great if you could team up with a jazz singer for some tutorials, beginner or otherwise. Great video, thanks. I love the piano which is what drew me to your video.
Thanks for the comment. It's a good suggestion and something I have considered doing. I did a video on accompanying yourself ...piano and vocals , here: ua-cam.com/video/Adu9V6BYbNI/v-deo.html
Simply beautiful clear...
Thanks for telling me, that's what I strive for.
very Good!!!
Thank you! Cheers!
You are great!
Thank you!
That was fantastic and highly entertaining. Thank you so much.
merci beaucoup!
great work, am having some trouble on following the jazz rythms
Those are the most difficult aspects to learn in jazz. I have some videos that might help , in my playlists . But I need to do more. Thanks.
ua-cam.com/users/KentHewittpiano88playlists
What a wonderful video! Everything was explained clearly and there was not a second of padding. I'm probably too old to start learning the piano but I'm going to give it a bash anyway!
By padding, I guess you mean... I got to the essence of the issue, no? You're never too old, music can bring so much joy to your life, and others, and what you learn and practice will always reap rewards,
@@KentHewittpiano88 Yes, you were concise and to the point but it didn't seem rushed either - you got the pace just right too! Yes, music has brought me a lot of joy already. I'm a flute player.
Yes it is true spiritual journey is individual for me playing experimenting on my violin is best for mind and body. It is a communication with my soul. I love your channels.
WE need to talk....I've always felt that way...just need to tap into it more lately...thanks!
Great videos. Very original and refreshing style. Keep it up Kent. Will try to find your book.
Thank you. Here's a link: www.kenthewitt.com/my-book
Thank you Kent ☺️
I appreciate that!
thanks!
Welcome!
Wow! Lots to think about here! I ran into something like this with "If I Only Had a Brain" from the Wizard of Oz. That song has a particular bounce to it which is a little jazzy.
That's a great little song sung by the scarecrow. Here's a really cool version by the Four Freshmen: ua-cam.com/video/RZsj4jKkXoc/v-deo.html
Thanks
Welcome
20:27 great!
Thank you!
"put another nickel in ,in the nickelodeon " always meant to say great intro .
Funny, my wife and I were thinking the same thing. A donation to Kents Patreon is now on the way.
I don't have a Patreon account...should I?
THANK YOU!!!
You're welcome!
Excellent!
Thank you, Rachel!
Thank you Kent you are genial
Very helpful video, and the book exactly is what I am looking for, but I don’t know where to get it, could you please tell me where to buy? Thank you
Thank you, sir!
My pleasure! Thanks for the comment!
Quality content love it
Really like the solo at end on Fly Me. If you have transcription of right hand could you post it? If not that's cool I will probably do it from the video. Keep the quotes coming too - love it.
Thanks for the great feedback. I don't have a transcription of the solo, but I know some people that might want to transcribe it. Since you asked....
hi Kent. This is great, thanks :)
Thanks for the comment!
Nice
Thanks!
amazing video
Thank you!
Merci beaucoup
wow this video really helped me differentiate jazz from other music genres and understand what makes jazz so special.I have this presentation i have to do about jazz music and im definetely adding this video there about the syncopation and the swing details.I have a lot in my plate right now and I dont want it to be too much,so i wanted to ask your professional advice,what are some jazz essantials i shouldnt miss and that u would suggest me to implant in my jazz presentation? I hope to hear from you soon,best regards Mr.Hewitt!
Well, definitely the underlying jazz swing rhythm is most important. Probably next is improvisation.... creating melodies on the spur of the moment. Withing that concept is the idea of interpreting a melody not literally the way it was composed, but phrasing the melody how you as a player personally would interpret it. Also jazz has more complex or sophisticated harmonies, and syncopation, both in chords and melody, Syncopation is when you accent the notes that are not on the downbeat, or the primary beat, but are on the upbeats (off beats) . That gives jazz it's distinct rhythmic feeling.
Kent Hewitt Thank u sir,appreciate it!
Just needed. My teacher made me count all the quarters in triplets with metronome. And it is very hard to keep with the ta ta ta, ta ta ta.
Triplets take time to get a good feel for, especially if they are quarter note triplets.
Thanks for the lesson, Kent. A question, if you don't mind: when improvising lines, are there any rules or guidelines to be followed in deciding which notes to accent and which to cut short?
Oh yes, I have videos on that. Go to my Playlists....it is too complex a subject to answer in this box. Write to my email for more info.
ua-cam.com/users/KentHewittpiano88playlists
@@KentHewittpiano88 Thanks Kent - I'll check out your playlists.
Quality
Thanks!
hi sir, I have the query that what's scale do you use for improvising at the end of the vid, because I saw you played Ab and Bb at 21:49
There may not be a video labeled Part 2, but go to the playlists to see all the related videos.
ua-cam.com/users/KentHewittpiano88playlists
@@KentHewittpiano88 ok thank you sir! i'll go for it
Perhaps a drill that isolates the left hand comping as in 20:10 .
I have videos on left hand comping, and comping in general. Go too playlists here:
ua-cam.com/users/KentHewittpiano88playlists
@@KentHewittpiano88 Thank you, perfect!
All your RH info today was great, what I strive for. My issue is my LH rhythm. Your example at the end was awesome, this is how I want to play. But even 8f I duplicated your RH perfectly it would not sound the same because I don't know proper rhythm for my LH. Please, what is the rhythm for the LH? Thank you.
Please go to my playlists on chords and comping . I have some videos in there specifically about LH comping and rhythm. ua-cam.com/channels/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCw.htmlplaylists
Do you have a video where you teach actually how to put it together with both hands. I can play the right hand melody no problem with syncopated rythm but the skill is in putting it together with both hands.
You could check out this video which might help with that:
ua-cam.com/video/cR-ki8-VlhE/v-deo.html
Also watch my videos on comping, especially left hand comping against the melody.
ua-cam.com/play/PLFuMibnl_h5abmY90whS2VekI4jABbFUo.html
5:30 Am I missing something? The ragtime is supposed to be 3 to 1 and the jazz is supposed to be 2 to 1, but you play both examples more like 5 to 1. What you're saying they should sound like and what you're playing appear to be completely different things.
6:34 Same here. You say ragtime is like a dotted eighth and a sixteenth (3 to 1) but then you play in triplets (2 to 1). It's basically the same as the jazz that follows it but you play the ragtime staccato and the jazz legato.
Happy to be corrected but for a basics lesson this all seems very confusing.
There is a difference... I'm sorry you don't hear it. The ragtime feel is distinctively different than the jazz swing, but it's a subtle difference. If you listen to a couple of the videos I've done on Stride piano (go to my playlists) and then compare them to the standards videos that I improvise on, the difference in feel may be more apparent to you. Some ragtime pieces, like Maple Leaf Rag and The Entertainer, the 8ths notes are straight 8ths.
Perfect, greyzytone.
Awesome, than you!!!
Thanks!
7:08 video starts.
Thanks for that!
Ram Dass, eh? I didn't know he was a jazz fan! :-) ❤️ XOXO - M
Hi Kent, i love your finger poppin daddy videos...thank you! I have a problem... I learn to play "Maple Leaf Rag by Scott Joplin" a few years ago for my grade nine conservatory exam. Memorized it without a clue about the theroy... I was told not to swing just read the music straight. Now I only play it exactly how it is written.... what should i do to get a better grasp of this piece?
That is perhaps Joplin's most famous composition next to The Entertainer. It's not an easy piece to play. I learned it a while back but I don't play much ragtime now because of a 5th finger problem. Those 8th notes are intended to be straight 8ths, that is how the piece is suppose to be played. Have you listened to any master stride players perform it?. Here's a link to one of the masters; Dick Hyman , giving you a lesson using that song as an example. ua-cam.com/video/Eo_365T1B2o/v-deo.html
(you can find anything on UA-cam)That might give you some insight. It's very helpful to know more theory to understand how to play a piece, particularly for memorization. I rely on my theory knowledge for memorization, plus some other things help with that.
Thank you for all of your help...
Amazing how you play on the piano do you also play request?
I've done numerous requests...it all depends on whether I like the song and know it well enough to do a good job...or I want to learn it for my own benefit.... as well as yours.
you should just do a breakdown of what your left is doing when you play out at the end…
Thanks for the suggestion!
Just discovered Hal Crook. I’m sure he’s a old friend and associate of yours?
How did you discover Hal? I have compadres that played with him, but I have not had the pleasure . Years ago I enjoyed playing free form and avant guarde. Recent years I've come back to playing and enjoying mainstream, mostly because it was impossible to get gigs otherwise. I respect the musicians that play that type of music, even though in this country, verses Europe, they don't have the same following, When I toured Germany years ago they loved the modern alternative jazz. There's more appreciation for jazz there. It's not appreciated the same in the US. As an example, this excellent video w/ Hal has 22 thousand views and only 7 comments. That tells you something. ua-cam.com/video/EPNOdLba_cQ/v-deo.html Of course if you're John Coltrane, you're going to pack the clubs, because that is genius, and it's the 60's.
I was checking out weeklypiano.com on UA-cam. One of the players I follow and he had a guest on. Ruslan Sirota. Well Ruslan was giving good advice on improvising and he mentioned a book and CDs by Hal Crook “- how to improvise” said we’d be forever grateful. So I bought from amazon and another called “ready, aim, improvise “ I think a companion to the first. Just got one last week and one yesterday and am diving in. Very very thorough. I’m excited. I love your book to. I’m slowing your solo down on fly me to the moon and trying to pick up a few things. I really like they way you solo on all that you do.
Ragtime: The syncopation comes from the groupings of (straight) 8ths.
That is exactly what I need. I still have too much kraut-marching stuff in my blood.
Fucking master
_______awesome...thanks!
The greatest exponent of syncopation was undoubtedly Scott Joplin, but he did not swing. If you don't swing but want to listen to lots of good Jazz by the old masters until you FEEL the swing. there is a subtle difference to syncopation that is hard to explain, it can not be notated. you just have to feel it.
That's right, I won't argue your point. This was not an easy concept to convey, you can try to analyze it and break it down, but in the end you have to feel it. The fascinating thing is that so many great jazz pianists felt it differently ...but they still were great. For example...compare Bill Evans with Ahmad Jamal, or George Shearing with Erroll Garner.
First?
Yes you are. Congratulations!