 A Lesson
From A True Piano
Artist
 There is much we can learn from the likes of legendary jazz pianist Bill Evans. Bill was especially noted for his tasteful use of sparse left hand chord voicings, which ever so elegantly complimented the lyrical melodic lines that seemed to flow from his fingertips ever so effortlessly. It's been said that music of Bill Evans leaves many listeners with the impression that the instrument was invented with him in mind. As you watch this video, notice how Bill keeps those left hand chord voicings tastefully subdued as the right hand melody and improvisation that follows maintain the "upper hand" (!) in musical significance. Take note, however, of the quality of those chord voicings he is using in that right hand. These are truly beautiful textures! If you would like to get a handle on some of what Bill is playing with that left hand, consider Lesson #5 of ProProach, which is actually available separately (this is a lesson that has special significance to me, which is explained when you arrive there). Couldn't you just listen to that performance over and over again? I know I could... and have... and still do! Truly, this is a lesson that gives a fresh new meaning to the concept that "less is more." Please consider allowing this to have a positive effect on your own playing. You can do this by developing a genuine appreciation for the fact that you can be musical with whatever you know, right at your current skill level. It's not what you say... or how much you say... but how you say it. The next time you sit at that piano or keyboard of yours, pay attention to those chords or chord voicings you are playing and to that melody. Imagine that someone is standing by your side an listening. Put yourself in that person's shoes... what do they hear? Is it evident that you have a real sensitivity for what you are playing? Do you give respect to that melody, allowing it to shine (much like a lead singer in a band should be heard above all else)? Listen to how Bill Evans utilizes "tonal shading" - the use of dynamics - to convey his musical ideas. If he had a paintbrush and was standing before a canvas rather than a piano, imagine the beautiful scenery that would manifest. With Bill's playing, this is not difficult, since listening to his music creates that picture for us without any effort on our part! Consider how you are using "tonal shading" in your music... listen to your volume levels... do they change when the mood changes? Are you playing what you feel? Are you allowing your inner sensitivities to surface? As you learn and incorporate your piano chord voicings into your songs, are you allowing the texture of these sounds to stand on their own without getting carried away with "over-playing" with lots of unnecessary volume? In short, are you painting pictures? Go ahead and listen to that performance of Bill Evans above again (as well as other recordings of his) and give a little more attention to these points. The more you listen, the more all this will mean to you... Remember... Always... ALWAYS... PLAY WITH PASSION!  Take advantage of this special ProProach promotion while it lasts! 6 MONTHS OF PIANO CHORD INSIGHT FOR JUST A ONE-TIME ONLY PAYMENT OF $99!!!   |