Stage 4 | Lesson: 40 | Step 1 – (theory) In this step we’ll be using a hexatonic scale to improvise over sus chords in order to achieve a more modern sound type of improvisation.

Stage 4 | Lesson: 40 | Step 3 – (theory) At this point you’ll have seen and played a lot of voicings. Remember that your foundation will be shells first then colors second.

Stage 4 | Lesson: 39 | Step 1 – (theory) This is a nice mellow hexatonic scale you can use over major 7th chords that provides the 13, and #11 extensions.

Stage 4 | Lesson: 39 | Step 3 – (theory) Here we’re combining upper structure triads with our LH shells. This particular set up is as good as it gets. This is a true authentic jazz voicing sound you’ll hear on albums and tracks. After this we’ll work to help you isolate and distinguish specific extensions so you’re choosing which ones you want to play.

Stage 4 | Lesson: 39 | Step 4 – (theory) This little drop 2 harmonization strategy creates a gorgeous top line combination that is widely used in the professional jazz pianist world. The 3rds that this harmony creates can be expanded upon as well.

Stage 4 | Lesson: 39 | Step 5 – (theory) There are some beautiful major upper structure triads. Obviously not as many as our dominant 7ths, but these will still give you some amazing colors to resolve to after you’ve played your 2 and 5 chords of a 2-5-1.

Stage 4 | Lesson: 38 | Step 1 – (theory) In this step we’ll look at a hexatonic scale that can be used over minor 7th chords. This one isn’t complicated. It uses an ii- upper structure triad which gives us the 9,11, and 13 mixed with a b3 major triad which is all chord tones.

Stage 4 | Lesson: 38 | Step 2 – (theory) In this step we’ll learn the b6 pentatonic scale. I describe the sound and texture of the b6 pentatonic scale as being the “Star Wars” sound. You’ll often hear me refer to this anytime the b6, (#5), is involved in a texture because it’s the same sound you hear in all space movies.

Stage 4 | Lesson: 38 | Step 3 – (theory) The interval of a 5th is a very strong and useful interval to have mastered in jazz. By this point you should know that most harmonies move and resolve down by 5ths and they’re also use a lot in improvisation.

Stage 4 | Lesson: 38 | Step 4 – (theory) The setups learned in this step are crucial for creating perfectly balanced two hand voicings. You have to learn the the specific setup your LH takes to support the chord before adding in the fancy colors in your RH.