Contrapuntal Jazz Improvisation for Pianists

PSPN-335

This course offers a step-by-step approach to improvising contrapuntally in a solo piano context. Emphasis on walking bass lines through a series of rhythmic/melodic motives gives the pianist a basis for gaining the independence required to simultaneously improvise in a linear or chordal manner in the right hand. This eventually leads to multi-voice improvisation. Artists studied and transcribed include Lennie Tristano, Dave McKenna, Bill Evans, Brad Mehldau, Oscar Peterson, and Diana Krall. Weekly class performance includes repertoire of the jazz standard literature.

Credits
2
Prerequisites
Overall ensemble rating 3
Required Of
None
Electable By
All B.M. and P.D. students
Semesters Offered
Fall, Spring
Location
Boston
Department
PIANO
Course Chair
Dave Limina
Courses may not be offered at the listed locations or taught by the listed faculty for every semester. Consult my.berklee.edu to find course information for a specific semester.