A Guide To Help You Play Better Jazz Piano
by
Ron Drotos
History and overview:
“I’m Beginning To See The Light” is one of Duke Ellington’s lighter “pop” tunes. It was written in 1944 and has been recorded by many artists over the years, some of whose recordings of it have reached the top of the charts.
It’s a nice song, and is often performed by non-jazz singers who want to add a few catchy jazz songs to their repertoire. (Nothing wrong with that!) Dedicated jazz musicians have played it too, of course, and I’ve linked to a wonderful recording by pianist/arranger Clare Fischer below. If you don’t know his work yet, be sure to give it a listen.
Here are some recommended recordings/videos:
(for international readers who may not have access to these YouTube links, I’ve indicated the original album names wherever possible so you can listen to them on music streaming services, etc.)
Duke Ellington
Natalie Cole: Take A Look
Michael Bublé
Clare Fischer: America The Beautiful
Musical ideas and jazz piano practice tips:
When learning a song like this that’s so strongly associated with vocalists, it’s helpful to get to know a few of the more popular vocal renditions, such as the recordings I’ve lined to above. This way, you’ll know what type of accompaniment to play the next time a singer asks you to play it “like Natalie Cole does it.”
When you’re listening to Clare Fischer’s arrangement (above), listen to how his inner voices give a unique color to the harmonies. In both his composing and with his piano playing, Fischer expanded and further developed the linear arranging techniques used by Duke Ellington, Billy Strayhorn, and Gil Evans, as well as by 20th century classical composers such as Stravinsky and Shostakovich. Lots of accomplished jazz pianists, including Herbie Hancock, have acknowledged him as an influence, and studying his music will give you many fresh new ideas.
Enjoy the journey, and “let the music flow!”
Further links and resources:
Clare Fischer: Wikipedia
How To Learn Jazz Piano
A podcast to help you learn jazz piano more effectively
Jazz Piano Video Course
This extensive, well-sequenced video course will get you playing jazz standards with a sense of flow and fluency.
Jazz Piano Lessons via Skype
Personal guidance from an expert, caring teacher. Beginning through Advanced.
Previous Song Table of Contents Next Song
Learn the 5 Essential Left Hand Techniques with my free ebook: Left Hand Techniques for Jazz Piano
You'll also get my weekly jazz newsletter with practice tips and inspiration
