Ron's blog on piano improv and the role of music in our lives
If you’re new to the world of jazz, it can be difficult to know where to start listening. Everybody you ask will recommend a different favorite pianist and the sheer variety of jazz styles can be overwhelming at first. With this in mind, I’ve compiled a list of 10 great jazz pianists for beginning jazz musicians … Read More
I recently came across something I wrote to a young musician who wasn’t happy with his “progress.” He asked for advice and later thanked me for my response. Reading it again, six months later, I’ve realized that this is musical advice we all need to hear! We need to continually connect with the joy of … Read More
Pablo Picasso had unique advice for aspiring artists who wanted to discover their “individuality”: he simply advised them to try to draw a perfect circle. Since no one can actually draw a perfect circle, there will be imperfections. And violá… those imperfections will be yours, and yours alone. The jazz pianist/composer Joe Sample had a … Read More
I’m often asked why I love to teach piano so much. Here’s my answer: Thank you all for such inspiration! 🙂 You might also like: What is the Best Way to Learn How to Improvise Music? How To Play Jazz Piano (Part 3) Tending Your Musical Garden Get my free ebook: Left Hand Techniques for … Read More
“What’s The Most Effective Way To Learn Something?” This is a question I keep coming back to, both as a performer and as a teacher. I’ve had ample opportunity to investigate it this week, since I’ve started learning Morse code for a fun project with a friend. This kind of memorization doesn’t come easy to … Read More
I love blues music. Three chords, infinite possibility. Here’s a video I made that will give you a taste of what you can accomplish with blues piano, both musically and emotionally: Evolution of Blues Piano And yes, you can “try this at home” with the sheet music. Happy improvising! Ron You might also like: How … Read More
I’m frequently asked, “What’s a good practice routine (or schedule)?” Well, it depends on who you are and what you want to accomplish with your music. It can also vary depending on “where you’re at” at a given time. We don’t always need a specific practice routine, but at times they can help us overcome … Read More
Over the years I’ve taught countless adult piano students, both in-person and through my website, KeyboardImprov.com. It’s a true joy to see how many people integrate music into their lives by means of the piano, and I’ve noticed certain patterns that influence their musical and personal success. Simply put; some adults stick with it, and … Read More
On the video below, I’ve shown some ways to get a GREAT left hand technique. In a nutshell, I’ve developed 4 basic approaches to working with the left hand: 1. Technical exercises and Bach/Chopin 2. Use your left hand to learn whatever you’re working on 3. Incorporate your left hand more into your usual style … Read More
For many young people, the early teen years are an exciting time of self-discovery. Their parents are letting them pursue their own interests and choose many of their own activities. And for teens who have been studying a musical instrument since they were very young, this often means stopping lessons and putting the instrument aside. … Read More