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The LJS Podcast is the podcast where you get weekly jazz tips, interviews, stories and advice for becoming a better jazz musician! Hosting the show is the jazz musician behind learnjazzstandards.com, author, and entrepreneur Brent Vaartstra, who’s one goal is to answer any question about playing jazz music you may have. Jazz can be a challenging music to learn and play, but it doesn’t have to be so hard. Each episode features a specific musical challenge that jazz students may come across, where it is discussed and answered. Special jazz guests frequent the show, sharing their expertise on an array of different musical subject matter. Listeners are invited to call in with their jazz questions to the podcast hotline, where it could get answered on a future LJS Podcast episode. Join thousands of other listeners getting free jazz education every week!</p>
In this episode, Kevin raises a query about comping on the piano, seeking clarification on placing the melody note within voicings. Brent breaks down the distinction between chord melody and melodic comping, emphasizing the importance of creating movement and melodies within accompaniment.
Through practical examples and clear explanations, Brent gives guidance in enhancing comping skills, offering valuable insights for pianists, guitarists, and other comping instruments.
Don't miss out on Brent's expertise as he explores the nuances of melodic comping and shares strategies for elevating your musical accompaniment. Subscribe now for more enriching discussions and jazz wisdom on your favorite podcast platform.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast
Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
In this episode, Brent discusses the question of whether musicians should explore styles beyond jazz, particularly jamming with those who play country or rock. He emphasizes the immense value in venturing into diverse musical realms, citing the enrichment it brings to one's understanding of music as a whole.
Brent encourages embracing musical exploration while recognizing the balance between mastering jazz and delving into other genres. He acknowledges the trade-offs involved, acknowledging that dividing time between different styles may slow progress in any one area but emphasizing the holistic growth it facilitates.
He concludes with a reminder of the importance of actionable knowledge and focused practice, inviting listeners to subscribe for more insights and discussions on navigating the multifaceted world of music.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast
Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
In this Fast Track Friday episode, Brent dives into the crucial topic of learning jazz solos by ear. Building upon previous discussions about jazz education and practice strategies, he explores the multifaceted benefits of mastering jazz language through ear training. He explains the purpose behind this practice, highlighting how it strengthens ear-to-instrument connection, enhances rhythm and time feel, and fosters a deep understanding of the language of jazz.
Through engaging anecdotes and practical advice, Brent emphasizes the transformative power of ear training in jazz education. He addresses common challenges faced by learners and encourages those navigating the sometimes tedious journey of learning by ear.
Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting your jazz journey, this episode offers invaluable guidance for honing your skills and mastering the language of jazz.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast
Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
In this episode, Brent tackles a thought-provoking question from Kevin Pritchett about the balance between learning at different speeds and knowing when to move on. Through insightful commentary and practical advice, Brent navigates the complexities of musical learning, offering strategies for maximizing practice time and achieving musical goals effectively.
Drawing on his experience as an educator and musician, Brent emphasizes the importance of understanding personal objectives and tailoring practice sessions to address specific needs, whether it's mastering technical execution or absorbing jazz language.
Whether you're grappling with tempo challenges or seeking guidance on optimizing practice routines, this episode provides invaluable insights to elevate your musical growth and enhance your jazz playing.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast
Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
In this episode, Brent talks about the nuances of jazz blues, responding to a listener's query about the differences between traditional 12-bar blues and its jazz counterpart. With clear explanations and musical demonstrations, he breaks down the chord progressions and structural variations characteristic of jazz blues, offering valuable insights for jazz musicians of all levels.
From the basic 12-bar format to more complex evolutions like the bird blues, Brent provides a comprehensive overview of jazz blues forms, emphasizing the importance of learning various jazz blues heads to enhance improvisational skills and repertoire.
Through practical examples and thoughtful analysis, Brent empowers aspiring jazz musicians to deepen their understanding of blues harmony and develop their improvisational prowess. With engaging anecdotes and helpful tips for effective practice, this episode promises to inspire listeners as they embark on their jazz journey.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast
Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
In this episode, Brent addresses a listener's question about soloing over modal tunes like "So What" or "Maiden Voyage." He breaks down the concept of modal jazz and offers practical advice for creating engaging improvisations over limited chord changes.
By explaining the modal scales associated with each chord and emphasizing the importance of melody creation, he provides valuable insights for jazz musicians at all skill levels.
Throughout the episode, Brent delves into the art of improvisation, offering a crash course in modal harmony, and exploring triad patterns and chromatic notes while prioritizing creativity and expression. Through practical tips and musical demonstrations, he encourages elevating improvisational skills and embracing the rich possibilities of modal jazz.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast
Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
In this episode, Brent introduces a listener's question about classical violinists transitioning into jazz music. He highlights the challenges classical musicians face, particularly with improvisation, compared to their familiarity with sheet music interpretation. Brent breaks down the process of learning jazz for classical musicians by providing practical steps and insights.
Throughout the episode, Brent emphasizes the importance of active engagement and experimentation in learning jazz. He encourages classical musicians, and musicians of all backgrounds, to embrace the process of improvisation and explore new musical territory with patience and an open mind.
By demystifying the transition from classical to jazz music, Brent empowers listeners to embark on a journey of musical discovery and self-expression, reminding them that progress comes from consistent practice, experimentation, and a willingness to step outside of their comfort zones.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast
Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
In this Fast Track Friday episode of the Learn Jazz Standards podcast, Brent discusses the critical importance of finding joy and happiness as a musician. Drawing on personal experiences and insights, he explores the detrimental effects of self-doubt and dissatisfaction on musical growth and fulfillment.
Through thought-provoking questions and practical suggestions, Brent invites listeners to explore the sources of happiness in their musical pursuits, whether through enjoyable practice routines, fulfilling challenges, supportive musical environments, or the right equipment.
Brent offers a refreshing perspective on overcoming obstacles and cultivating a positive mindset in the pursuit of musical excellence. Tune in to this episode for invaluable insights and inspiration to infuse your musical journey with joy, fulfillment, and lasting satisfaction.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast
Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
In this podcast episode, Brent discusses a fundamental music theory concept brought up by listener Andy Berry regarding the distinctions between scale tones and chord extensions. Brent equips listeners with a deeper understanding of how the elements of different chord extensions shape harmonic structures and contribute to the rich tapestry of jazz music.
With his expert guidance, he shares insights on how to navigate the nuances between scale tones and chord extensions. Through engaging explanations and insightful analogies, Brent empowers musicians to enhance their improvisational skills and expand their harmonic vocabulary.
Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a budding musician eager to deepen your understanding of music theory, this episode offers valuable insights to enrich your musical journey.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast
Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
In this episode, Brent addresses a common concern voiced by Cherie Vodica from Raleigh, North Carolina, about regaining confidence in playing with other musicians after spending a significant amount of time practicing alone, particularly due to the isolation brought on by the pandemic. Through insightful advice and practical strategies, Brent offers valuable guidance on overcoming self-doubt and preparing oneself for collaborative musical endeavors.
With a blend of empathy and actionable advice, Brent encourages taking proactive steps toward reconnecting with the joy of playing music with others. He advocates for a holistic approach that combines exposure therapy with deliberate practice.
By reframing challenges as opportunities for growth and embracing a mindset of curiosity and resilience, musicians can navigate the transition from solitary practice to collaborative performance with confidence and enthusiasm.
Important Links:
Free Guide to learning standards by ear: Learn Jazz Standards the Smart Way
LJS Inner Circle Membership
Listen to the Learn Jazz Standards Podcast
Learn Jazz Standards Inner Circle: Get 50% off your first month!
Want to get your jazz question answered on the podcast? Click here.
Amanda is a wife. A mother. A blogger. A Christian.
A charming, beautiful, bubbly, young woman who lives life to the fullest.
But Amanda is dying, with a secret she doesn’t want anyone to know.
She starts a blog detailing her cancer journey, and becomes an inspiration, touching and
captivating her local community as well as followers all over the world.
Until one day investigative producer Nancy gets an anonymous tip telling her to look at Amanda’s
blog, setting Nancy on an unimaginable road to uncover Amanda’s secret.
Award winning journalist Charlie Webster explores this unbelievable and bizarre, but
all-too-real tale, of a woman from San Jose, California whose secret ripped a family apart and
left a community in shock.
Scamanda is the true story of a woman whose own words held the key to her secret.
New episodes every Monday.
Follow Scamanda on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.
Amanda’s blog posts are read by actor Kendall Horn.
