An excellent question about how to use music theory in improvising authentically

In this video, I answer a great question from a saxophone player about understanding harmony and improving improvisation skills. If you feel lost when navigating complex chord progressions and want to learn how to improvise confidently within your unique style, watch this video.

Key Topics Covered:
Understanding Harmony: I break down the mechanics of chord changes and how they help you improvise over more difficult jazz tunes.

1. Ear Training vs. Theory: The importance of balancing ear training with harmonic knowledge to enhance your improvisation.

2. Analyzing Jazz Standards: A deep dive into the chord progression of "Stella by Starlight" and recognizing common chord patterns like two-five-ones.

3. Playing Over Changes: Tips on how to play melodically over complex chord progressions and key centers.

4. Common Tones and Key Centers: Identifying notes that work throughout chord changes to simplify your improvisation. I demonstrate the sound of three common tones throughout the first part of Stella by Starlight.

4. Practical Exercises: These exercises will improve your ear and your understanding of harmonic theory, including playing changes on the piano and memorizing the melody and form of a tune.

Check out my mini-course I mention in the video - Piano Comping for non-piano players: https://musicsavvy.com/piano-comping-...

Highlights:
Harmonic Theory: Learn the relationship between chords and key centers to navigate complex jazz standards.

Improvisation Tips: Practical advice on improvising authentically and emotionally while using theoretical knowledge.

Example Tunes: In-depth analysis of "Stella by Starlight" to illustrate key concepts.

Developing Your Ear: Strategies to improve your ear to more deeply hear chord progressions and melodic improvisation.

By the end of this video, you will have a better understanding of how to use harmonic theory to enhance your improvisation skills without letting it hinder your musical expression. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced musician, these tips will help you play with more confidence and emotional impact.