Lessons - Jazzedge Academy

Chord Play will show you how to get the most music out of even the simplest chord progressions. You’ll learn how to take a basic two-chord loop and turn it into something rich, colorful, and full of movement. Step by step, we’ll explore different ways to “arrive” at a chord, how to break apart and re-build progressions, and how to combine the chords you already know with new ones borrowed from other keys for fresh, exciting sounds.
You’ll also discover how different chords create different moods—and how you can use those moods to spark your improvisation. By the end of the course, you’ll have a set of practical tools to make your playing more interesting, your arrangements more engaging, and your improvisations more expressive, all while deepening your understanding of harmony in a fun, hands-on way.

Beginner Improv is the perfect starting point for new improvisers or those who want to build a solid foundation. Following my proven The Confident Improviser™ Level 1 program, you’ll learn step-by-step how to create great-sounding improvisations without feeling overwhelmed. We’ll cover simple basslines, 5-finger blues scales, essential rhythms, and easy accompaniment patterns—building your skills one layer at a time. By the end, you’ll have the confidence and tools to improvise freely and musically at the piano.

We focus on rhythms specifically for improvisation.

Learn the My 123 Improv System, which helps you gain speed in your improvisations.

In this beginner improvisation class, discover the transformative 123 system designed to enhance your improvisational skills. This lesson focuses on linking quarter notes, eighth notes, and triplets to your left-hand baseline, ensuring you can confidently play both hands together without losing structure. You'll learn how to maintain rhythm while improvising, overcoming common challenges faced by beginners. This system is not only effective for newcomers but also lays the groundwork for more advanced techniques. Join us to elevate your improvisation ability and prepare for next week's rhythm integration!

Build tension and release through minor chord shells, creating a hauntingly beautiful arrangement.

Join Nina in exploring the captivating sounds of Brazilian music at the piano. In this class, you'll dive into the mesmerizing rhythms and harmonies of Bossa Nova, beginning with an in-depth breakdown of Antônio Carlos Jobim's classic "O Grande Amor." This class is perfect for pianists who want to enrich their playing with the lush, smooth tones of Brazilian jazz.
After mastering the fundamentals of Bossa Nova, you’ll learn how to seamlessly incorporate these Brazilian and Bossa Nova elements into other beloved jazz standards, expanding your musical repertoire and enhancing your improvisational skills. Whether you're new to Brazilian music or looking to deepen your understanding, this class offers a unique opportunity to infuse your playing with the soulful essence of Brazil.

Join Nina in her “Jazz Ballads” class, where you’ll explore innovative and advanced techniques for crafting stunning jazz piano ballad arrangements. From lush voicings to dynamic phrasing, Nina will guide you through creative approaches that bring emotional depth and beauty to your playing. Perfect for intermediate to advanced pianists, this class will inspire you to transform classic ballads into unforgettable performances.

Join Paul in his engaging “Blues Piano” class, designed for players of all levels, from beginner to advanced. This class dives into essential blues concepts, including classic licks, must-know progressions, and the art of slow blues. Students will have the chance to ask questions and receive personalized feedback on their playing, making it a truly interactive learning experience. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your blues skills, Paul’s expertise and approachable teaching style will help you bring your blues piano playing to life.

We will cover arranging techniques across various styles, providing detailed examples and sheet music to help you apply these concepts to your own arrangements. Examples will include jazz, pop/rock, funk, and worship music.

In addition to exploring key concepts, we’ll leave plenty of time for discussion and questions, ensuring you gain a comprehensive understanding that you can confidently bring into your own musical projects.

Whether you're looking to refine your skills or expand your arranging repertoire, this class will offer valuable insights and practical tools.

Get ready for a new take on learning music theory. Our new "Practical Music Theory & Reharmonization" class is for anyone who wants to "own" the most important music theory skills that are needed to create exciting arrangements, improvise and be creative at their instrument.

This class is for all instruments and all levels. This means you can be a beginner or a pro. It also means you do not have to be a piano-player to gain valuable skills from this class.

How are all levels going to work in one class you ask? For one, we will be starting easy for everyone since this is a new class format. This means everyone will be able to start out on the right foot and feel comfortable. Willie will also be giving you lesson suggestions from the site so you know where to turn if you need additional help.

Why is the word "practical" in the title?

That's because there are a lot of music theory items that are not really needed by all students. Sometimes theory classes, in their goal to be as complete as possible, end up overburdening students with information that is "good to know" but not "mission critical."

Everything in this class is "must know" information that every single musician should strive to master.

This class is for all instruments and all levels. This means you can be a beginner or a pro. It also means you do not have to be a piano-player to gain valuable skills from this class.

Why is the word "practical" in the title?

Everything in this class is "must know" information that every single musician should strive to master.

This class is for all instruments and all levels. This means you can be a beginner or a pro. It also means you do not have to be a piano-player to gain valuable skills from this class.

Why is the word "practical" in the title?

Everything in this class is "must know" information that every single musician should strive to master.

This class is for all instruments and all levels. This means you can be a beginner or a pro. It also means you do not have to be a piano-player to gain valuable skills from this class.

Why is the word "practical" in the title?

Everything in this class is "must know" information that every single musician should strive to master.

Learn a bassline accompaniment.

Come join me for an engaging live coaching experience unlike any other. In this dynamic new format, I'll be calling on each student individually to discuss what they've been working on, share their progress, and get personalized guidance on their biggest challenges.
This isn't a passive session where you sit back and listen – it's an interactive coaching session designed to keep everyone engaged and accountable. Each participant will have the opportunity to be in the hot seat, receiving direct feedback and actionable advice tailored to their specific situation and goals.