I've mentioned many times before on this blog how big a fan I am of technical exercises. I feel like my playing is at it's best when I have some sort of daily technique routine. Almost every exercise I work on is played and sung through all twelve keys. For this reason, the technical exercises (ala Hanon) I've been writing lately have been really challenging both my technique and inner singing voice. I have to remind myself that daily slow and patient practice is the key to making these exercises feel effortless.
In this week's jazz piano lesson we will be taking a look at the Major Pentatonic scale. The pentatonic scale is a very old traditional five note scale that is often used in jazz improvisation. Some of my favorite jazz masters known for their mastery of pentatonics include McCoy Tyner, John Coltrane, Woody Shaw and Chick Corea. Any of these great players is well worth checking out.
The construction of the pattern used in the jazz lesson is discussed in the video below. Suggestions for practice are also included.
Sheet Music: Jazz Piano Lesson #44 - Major Pentatonic Workout (.pdf)
Video Lesson:
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