Chords, Progressions & Improv

Develop your ability to create and modify chord progressions with this in-depth course on jazz and improvisation. You’ll explore techniques for expanding progressions, reharmonization, and adding color to your playing. The course also introduces a jazz/gospel progression and provides essential improvisation tips to help you build a more modern piano sound.

Lessons cover advanced concepts like secondary and extended dominants, clustering techniques, and minor-key harmony. You’ll also learn how to analyze and fix chord progressions, as well as how to break up chords to create dynamic accompaniments. Using Harlem Nocturne as an example, you’ll discover effective ways to fill out progressions for a richer sound.

This course is ideal for intermediate to advanced players who want to refine their harmonic skills, create more interesting progressions, and improve their improvisational abilities.j

How to Expand and Improve Your Chord Progressions

One of the most effective ways to elevate your piano playing is by refining your chord progressions. Whether you’re improvising, composing, or reharmonizing a jazz standard, understanding how to modify progressions can make your playing sound richer and more professional.

This course focuses on essential techniques for expanding chord progressions, including secondary and extended dominants, which add depth and movement to your harmonies. You’ll also explore clustering techniques, which help create a more modern sound by closely grouping chord tones together.

Another key part of the course is learning how to analyze and fix chord progressions. By breaking down progressions and applying new techniques, you’ll develop a better understanding of harmony and improve your ability to create more compelling accompaniments. These skills can be applied to jazz, gospel, and contemporary styles, making your playing more versatile and expressive.

Is this course suitable for beginners?

No, this course is designed for intermediate to advanced pianists with some knowledge of chords and progressions.

Will I learn how to create my own chord progressions?

Yes! The course teaches techniques for developing original progressions and modifying existing ones.

Do I need to understand jazz theory to take this course?

A basic understanding of jazz harmony is helpful, but the lessons break down the concepts in a clear and practical way.

Can these techniques be used in different musical styles?

Absolutely! While the course focuses on jazz and gospel influences, the techniques can be applied to blues, pop, and other contemporary genres.