The Series
The Jazz Piano ABCs series progresses through three levels – A, B, and C – from late elementary to late intermediate learners.
The Jazz Piano ABCs Series at a Glance
There are eight different jazz topics in the series, six of which progress in depth and difficulty beginning with Level A and continuing to Level B, then Level C. The additional two topics of funk and hip hop are included only in Level C.
The Guidebooks at each level are non-sequential and may be learned in any order. For example, each Guidebook within Level A is a stand-alone learning experience and does not provide pre-requisite material for any of the other Guidebooks within Level A. The same is true for the Guidebooks within Level B or those within Level C.
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As students move from Level A, to B, to C, the Guidebooks progress in difficulty and depth of exploration, with Level A being most accessible and Level C being most complex. For example, the Rhythm Changes Guidebook in Level A provides foundational material for the Rhythm Changes Guidebook in Level B, which provides foundational material for Rhythm Changes in Level C. Because of the progressive nature of the levels, most students find maximum benefit by starting a topic in Level A before attempting it in Level B or C.
Level A: Late Elementary
Level A Note Reading Range
Level A Rhythm Reading Requirements
The written tune (head) features a simple melody with scattered moments of harmony. The hands mostly stay within a five-finger shape, but there is some minimal hand shifting. Sharps, flats and natural signs are used throughout, with accidentals written into the body of the score in lieu of using key signatures. Improvisation exercises do include eighth note rhythms which are learned by ear and are not intended to be read by the student.
Level B: Intermediate
Level B Note Reading Range
Level B Rhythm Reading Requirements
The written tune (head) is presented in a hybrid lead sheet format that includes a melody whose accompaniment is partially created by the students as they learn to interpret basic triads from chord symbols. Moderate levels of hand shifting and intervals beyond a fifth are used throughout. Key signatures include up to 2 flats or 2 sharps.
Level C: Late Intermediate
Level C Note Reading Range
Level C Rhythm Reading Requirements (In addition to Level B rhythms)
The melody is presented in a lead sheet format without accompaniment. The harmonic texture is created by the students as they learn common chord voicings and how to apply them to solo piano arranging. Seventh chords are introduced as well as some chord extensions. Key signatures may include up to 3 flats or 3 sharps. Major and minor scales, as well as blues and pentatonic scales, are used for improvisation. Syncopated rhythms are notated as well as improvised.