Beginner's Guide to Improvisation- A SIMPLE II-V-I EXERCISE - theory/concepts.

[@nominalegg5865]

Kent, you’re a national treasure. Inspirational and generous. Thank you for what you do.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thank you, Nominal Egg!...but what's underneath? I appreciate your being a 1st responder. Your affirmation is all I have to keep me going....so I'm truly grateful for your comment, because so many beginners ask me for help with music.

[@Tabu11211]

International ***

[@grazianocooper2061]

One of the best introductory lectures on music improvisation! Kent teaches the teachers.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great compliment ....means a lot to me...thanks!

[@1950francesca]

Unbelievably helpful lesson. There is more packed in here in one video than I've gotten in all the other jazz piano videos I've watched -- and it's all presented so clearly! Thank you!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Wow...that's an impressive statement and I'm so happy you feel that way.

[@alexandremachado3606]

You are really good in explaining what nobody else explains, actually the whole theory behind beautiful piano music and how it works. Thank you!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great confirmation and affirmation....thanks!

[@Gemauthority]

A light went off in my head!!! This was the best explanation of the II V I progression and how it is developed. TY!!!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks to you, sir...I have reposted this video for new viewers.

[@hoonar6756]

This was my first jump to jazz and progression and now I’m good on that. I think these simple lessons are incredible. You’re so generous and lovely. Thanks Legend

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I appreciate the comment. I hope to start doing more beginner lefel lessons. Please check out my Beginner Series on my Playlists. kzbin.info/door/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCwplaylists

[@skimanization]

The best video I've ever seen on ii-V-1 jazz improvisation. The best thing is towards the end where you play the simple but very important line as an illustration or example. Kent you are the best teacher. Thanks

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks so much....that's very helpful to me!

[@andre_shum]

Finally, I can truly get a grip on improv. Thank you!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Happy to help!

[@saadalhumaid3959]

No body teaches jazz piano on youtube better than this genius called Kent Hewitt. Thank you very much sir 🎼🎵❤️😘

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Best regards from KH and may you have much joy and success in life!

[@saadalhumaid3959]

Kent Hewitt thanks very much Sir

[@BoSong]

The most comprehensive and practical 251 lesson!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great comment!...can I use your quote in a future posting? Many thanks!

[@BoSong]

@@KentHewittpiano88 of course, my pleasure.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I've done it...thank you!

[@take942]

Kent, After learning from this lesson and practicing, you helped me to finally understand using 2-5-1's and with improvised melodies...opening up more improvised musical possibilities for me! Thank you again for your excellent and most effective teaching methods!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for telling me.

[@take942]

@@KentHewittpiano88 I'm also working on the I, V vi, IV chord progression. Have a good weekend!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Wishing you the best!

[@dannuttle9005]

I've spent a solid two hours today working on this, and I can now play a very simple melody over these chords, including the C#dim. I am now off the launch pad. September 15, 2019. I. Am. Playing Jazz. Look on me, ye mighty, and despair!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Dan, you have broken the nut and conquered the battle...it's is now onward and upward!! Realizing the value of extended practice is always a revelation!

[@v5q211]

Easily the most helpful progression tip right there

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the comment!

[@alratliff445]

Wow!! Kent, I have never had the basics of improvisation explained so well. This video is a masterpiece. You are such an excellent teacher. Thanks so much for sharing your exceptional Knowledge.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for an excellent comment. I will do more with the basics.

[@AwareLife]

Thank you teacher sir. You throw in from your experience things that others often don't. The vertical/horizontal variation I just learnt from YOU. An Aha! moment. Improvisation is fun. Keep well Kent.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks, Rod, for the nice comment...I try to do that w/ my videos so I appreciate the acknowledgement, stay well.

[@CharlesAustin]

Taking all your great advice Kent..lots of nice descriptive gems in there !!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@faboloItaly]

I'm just starting out on piano, been weeks wandering through educational video, which fills the tube, really. So far you greatly exceed them all, simple yet widening the mind, extremely enjoyable. this is my first youtube comment ever, just to thank you, cheers from italy!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I'm delighted you decided to make a comment. I find that difficult myself, but do it occasionally, so I will take that as flattery and much appreciated.. For new to jazz piano please go to my Beginner Series and Easy Jazz Lessons in my Playlists. Click on the title below the video to see the complete list in that category. Best to you! kzbin.info/door/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCwplaylists

[@uncleric3797]

My teacher gave me the 2-5-1 exercise challenge to form the chords in all 12 keys with the 3rd on top. then the 7th etc to get used to creating different voicing s and to really get them under my fingers. This was a another great diversion exercise that showed me that I still have more memorization to learn. But I'm getting there. Thelonious Monk said “The piano ain’t got no wrong notes.” but somehow I sure find them. Thanks for the videos.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I appreciate your comment. Now maybe we all have more time for practice. I'm taking this extra time to write a new appendix for my book, which will have many good exercises. Stay well!

[@superdi1506]

Loved it. I think I need to stop and start it and try to play it like you did.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Watch this video and it will help you: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zmi0nZualJKjZtU

[@juanjose4264]

man i love the way you teach keeping it relatively simple and not showing off too complex stuff keep em coming. This i can understand

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great comment...thanks!

[@gerrym8986]

Kent, this video was absolutely fantastic. I have been struggling with improvisation for some time, but your video has helped me grasp the basic concepts. Thanks so much!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I'm happy to know that I could present some basic concepts in a way that was helpful.

[@uhoh007]

I've been hacking through sheet music and running my blues scales around the circle for many years. Having turned 60 and being gifted a Hammond RT3 has motivated me to try for some real chops. I'm deep in the 2-5-1 thing now. There are many videos by a bunch of great teachers on the subject. I love this one. Fantastic, simple yet deep presentation. Your take here really puts some meat on the bones for me, Ken. Original, funny, illuminating: you inspire! Thank You, Sir!

[@georgekirazian5591]

A whole new world opens up here.... Thanks, Kent.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I appreciate your comment and I'm glad this is a new world for you. That's why I'm here.

[@markw6136]

Ive played guitar and taken jazz lessons from multiple teachers. Just turn 60 and decided to buy a keyboard to revisit playing music ,jazz specifically. But I dont read music just have a good ear, Ive been told. This one lesson simply explained how the ii V I works and how I might use it to improvise. Cant wait to get home an try these concepts. You’re a great teacher. Do you have a Patreon address? Would like to send a tip for your time. Grateful for your instruction

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's very kind. I'm not so unhumble that I need a patreon account...but I do value your comment and for telling me that my teaching is valuable...that's all I really need...thanks!

[@jezzab01]

So educational, useful and inspiring. I'm off now to tinkle the ivories (and the occasional ebony). Thank you so much, maestro.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

You are very welcome.

[@jasneskis]

That is the best for a bargained improviser like me. So simple and easy to understand.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great comment...thanks so much!

[@jacquesassayag9336]

Hemie Dressel -your fond friend- would be very proud of and for whatever undertaking and effort you have taken to help those with wish n desires to progress in knowledge of piano and all its coupremend- thank you Mr Hewitt not only are you the best- but no need for others to try teaching way you know what’s required to get to that promised landing Thank you again- from a Newark NJ ex pat-now in LA God bless and we shall meet on Hill and Broad Street sometime - from the streets Weequahic High School to shores of Bradley Bch Thank you again for your pro bono to society doesent go unnoticed

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Let's meet in San Fran, one of my favorite places and many memories. Thank you for acknowledging Hermie, that does my heart good.

[@richardgeschrey3965]

I bought Kent's book 15 months ago then saw and tried out the 2 5 1 exercises but did not relate to what I was to do with it. After a while I saw this tutorial and Kent's explanation of the harmonic relationship of this foundation became quite clear to me concerning how songwriters arranged progressions to get a pleasing effect to one's ear concerning the drama of music through cordial expression and melody. It is very elegant. To me this is likened to the golden proportion in art design and nature. When the geometry of the golden proportion is observed it gives a pleasing effect to the eye even when viewed by a baby. It is just the way things are. Kent has Expressed the fundamentals that show how this 2,5,1 is like a golden proportion in music by it very nature of sounding pleasurable to one's ear. At least in our western culture. Once again Master Yoda has nailed it and explained a very complex concept and defined it with simplicity in a very sycincked manner. Bravo!!!!! I now have learned 26 killer tunes and am applying modal scales to improvise on them at this time. Now that I understand the 2,5,1 and other related progressions, I see it in the music I have learned and it is very rewarding. As of late i can learn a new tune in about a week and the ability to comp and improvise around and tune is witnessed by our old friend the 2,5,1. Once I can play the song structure without looking down at the keys, then imporvazation is uplifting and not so intimadating. Especially when playing tourarounds. I would never have been able to come this far without Kent's mentoring. There are some other people doing what Kent does on the internet but none of them have such a structured sylibus using a common sense or meat and patatoes approach. Kent is the best for an apprentice like me and has changed my life for the better. Cant wait to visit him for a few days for some private lessons, critique and other advice before I put my band together. Thanks Kent, you are a teacher that makes many complex conceptions seem simple through your breakdown of the sum of the parts. Kent for The Ambassador of Jazz. Swing Loose 🤗🤗😎

[@nominalegg5865]

Richard Geschrey That’s one heck of an endorsement!

[@Blazh_di_Mitrov]

After reading your expressive comment on this tutorial, I decided to focus entirely on Kent tutorials chanel. I try to learn the theory of music and piano by miself and I have been watching several musician doing same kind of tutorials, however I am not very satisfied from what I have seen so far. I see that Kent explains the things profoundly and understandably. My admirations.

[@asselpunk1]

@@Blazh_di_Mitrov & @ Richard Geschrey Yeah - feeling the same. Kent is really *The Ambassador of Jazz.* :)

[@peterhyde1811]

Many thanks for another wonderful lesson. You have a great ability to simplify the otherwise complicated. After playing music for many moons I'm appreciating and valueing simplicity greatly. I didn't understand its value in my earlier musical life. Thanks Kent, you are a great teacher, much appreciated by this old timer.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's a great comment, Peter. I appreciate your telling me about the simplicity, it makes me think in a different way,... ask myself what would I want to know if I were starting out, or wanting to learn something new. This happens yo me every time I do a video.

[@peterhyde1811]

Thanks Kent.

[@AwareLife]

Thanks Kent. Nice build of construction. So much in that, have to save it, replay it and practice, practice...Keep spreading the joy.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

With your help, Rod, I'll keep doing it!

Just a beautiful explanation of how to begin your journey into writing and improvisation.

[@markdimarziomusic]

This is really cool and super helpful . I learnt a lot . Thanks so much Kent !

[@KentHewittpiano88]

You are very welcome.

[@danceswithdirt7197]

Fantastic video. I moved to the pacific northwest and had to sell my guitar and keyboards. I have my laptop, a lifelong love of music, and a smattering of experience and theory. I appreciate your videos. They have helped me to hear the work of geniuses like Monk or Coltrane or Mingus instead of just listening to them. I listen to alI types of music from all over but figure life is a lot like jazz improv -- we're all sort of figuring it out together, sometimes meandering but always hoping to end up somewhere beautiful. Be well, Mr. Hewitt.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's a wonderful comment, and very affirming and helpful to me. I have had the privilege to hear all of those giants of jazz you mentioned live, and it changed my life. It has a lot to do with why I am here.

[@studiosoixante]

Thank you! I'm just a beginner, but this was really clear. Can't wait to get to the piano now to work it out in person and play!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the comment!

[@warrenwilson7836]

In my life as a school principal I saw a lot of teachers. You are a good teacher. It must be difficult to judge the level of expertise of your audience - some will never have heard of a iiV I and others will be anxious to use diminished and diminished whole tone scales over altered dominants. Considering that, you offer really interesting and valuable content. Thanks as always.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Yes, Warren, you've hit it on the head. I get complaints that it's over their heads or too fast, and also, on the other side, it's too wordy or slow. In my playlists I try to separate the material into beginner levels and intermediate and advanced. Sometimes if it's advanced, I'll write that as a caption at the beginning. But isn't that the issue you have in teaching school? Thanks for the comment!

[@warrenwilson7836]

In schools we have the advantage of addressing individuals we know - so a good teacher will “evaluate prior learning” to see where the student’s “growing edge” is. It seems to me that must be impossible in these videos - but I find them a wonderful insight into the mind of a trained jazz musician. And I quite enjoy the way you take pretty arcane jazz theory and make it practical and playable. You are doing a great public service.

[@warrenwilson7836]

I had a wise friend who said that part of our duty in working with groups was to ensure that the “intellectual capital belongs to the enterprise, not the individual.” If this enterprise is jazz performance, you are doing a fine job of just that!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thank you, Warren! Your comments and encouragement mean the world to me. When I create a tutorial, I try to imagine how my thinking process was when I was first learning music. I had formal training on piano, but mostly taught myself jazz, with a few good teachers helping out. You learn jazz listening to recordings and imitating, and going out to clubs and hearing it live. But you have to find your own voice. I want to tell you, that reading your words, I think you are someone I'm sure I could learn a lot from, if the situation was reversed. Is it possible to make contact and have a dialog? I'd love that...where are you located? We can share our personal knowledge. Did you watch my newest video in which I told my story? I was reluctant to do that...but as they say... after much procrastination, I "jumped into the pool". and I can't believe the positive response. [e-mail] Cheers! KH kzbin.info/www/bejne/g4aopXZrg9Smn8k

[@GME17i]

Great to watch again Kent and put it into the memory bank once more. . As your earlier guest said. You are a National Treasure - for sure 😎

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Such a generous compliment. A million thanks, Corinne!

[@coolgiga]

Great teaching video! Thanks! 👍😎

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I appreciate the affirmation!

[@tamunotonyedappa2123]

I am so grateful Sir. This really sharpened my ideas about the 2-5-1 progression especially as related to Jazz that I love.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

My gratitude goes right back to you. I appreciate your comment.... that helps me to know that what I'm doing is effective and beneficial.

[@sauxphilippe]

We are allays winners with you even if we are stupid with notes !thanks again and again !

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's one of the best compliments I've ever received.. Humble thanks!

[@sauxphilippe]

@@KentHewittpiano88 I am saxophoniste and if by miracle we meat once i will enjoy playing a couple of beautifull songs with you !Dream is my reality !

[@murphyfamily6927]

BEST. TUTORIAL. EVER.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks so much!

[@nichttuntun3364]

Hello Kent. Nice that you are concerned about the beginners out there again :) Have a joyful time. All the best to you.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks, brother. Yes. I started doing more for beginners because...it's actually a bigger group of fans. A lot has do with the fact that many people, who have retired, now have time to take up one of their passions..... jazz piano.

[@nichttuntun3364]

Hi. That's really a cool thing you are doing. I can imagine that teaching beginner level isn't the greatest thing for a professional pianist. But sharing your passion and trying to encourage beginners can be forfilling too. You are giving something. I will retire in approximate 15 years when everything works out well and I will be lucky to be able to invest more time in studying the piano. Now I am still playing 1 to 2 hours a day and my piano teacher has started with some easy blues pieces but they are still hard for me because of the fact I have to play sight reading which I am a beginner with. I progress in very small steps. I do much of Czernys tonal etudes too. Due to this program (I am also into sound design and programming various synthesis-forms and do some experimental stuff with field recording and synthesizers) the studying of music and jazz theory has fallen short for a while. Can't have all at once. So short of time... But therefore my freestyle playing has become much better :) You are still a huge inspiration for me and I am joyful that we share the same passion and that you keep on doing your channel. I wish you all the best someone can ask for. I bow to you cause I got great respect for what you are doing and how you do it.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks so much...that a great endorsement and I really appreciate it! Keep doing your music and swing loose!

[@laurielyon7740]

Again Kent............very much enjoy your clips, despite not being a piano player. I play clarinet, having returned to it after several decades. Nonetheless, you explanation of the ii-V-I vis a vis melody is bang on for any instrument. Also love the ‘headwear’ you sport.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I want to take up the clarinet...I think it would make me a better musician ….what do you think? I love hats and your comment, brother!

[@johnjorno6568]

Kent explains his teaching in terms that are clear and easy to comprehend. Thanks, Kent

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Very welcome, John.

[@leigharukasaruh9915]

i already know this but the way you teach brings out a better understanding! thank you so much :)

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's great to hear, and affirming for me! Thanks!

[@johnrothfield6126]

Great and dense presentation of the foundations of melody and harmony!!!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I appreciate the comment, John....keep watching!

[@cadethacker]

Huge thanks for this. I understood the theory but was struggling on the mechanics. And I’m exactly who you describe. Ear only. I muscle memory the sheet music then put it away. :)

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I'm working on an appendix that includes extensive exercises and drills...it will be the size of a regular bonk, maybe 100 pages. That should help. But outside of good practice that's practical, there's no easy answer to your question.

[@cadethacker]

@@KentHewittpiano88 Sounds great! Yeah, should say, I'm a string player (guitar mostly) who is now trying to expand. So I have zero piano background, but fairly extensive music background. So your video was *PERFECT* to get me thinking the right way. Now just need to get my hands moving two different directions haha.

[@joany2000]

Very great pianist, among the best, and smart teacher... Thx a lot for this fine lesson😊

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's a super comment and much appreciated!

[@toddelliott3239]

Took a little time out this lovely Saturday morning to listen to this! Thanks, going to practice this on all scales.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I'm glad you enjoyed the video and hope it will expand your improv abilities. Thanks!

[@ronlister4033]

Finally found a great teacher, clear, right to the bone, love the way you teach and you be my kind of hip, practicing the 2 5 1 in all keys, some I can some I can't yet but working it, and really dig the way you play. Thanks for your welcoming

[@KentHewittpiano88]

GREAT COMMENT, Ron! So much appreciated, because the support keeps me going!

[@mrsandman00]

Kent, great job on these videos mate I have struggled to pick up the basic jazz concepts and you make it easy to understand. Thanks from the UK! put a big smile on my face at 25:00

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Many thanks!

[@albertlopez2762]

This lesson was right at my level, and I loved it. I listen on the way to work in the rain and not only did I learn something but I got to listen to some cool Jazz. Thank you very much

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great comment, Albert. I'll do more with this subject in the next videos Check out my Beginner Jazz Series in my playlists. . kzbin.info/door/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCwplaylists

[@susanprince6994]

Me too. I love the way you teach. I only got a little lost towards the end.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

You might enjoy my Beginner Series on my channel Page. Playlists: kzbin.info/door/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCwplaylists?view_as=subscriber

[@las174]

great! most people go too fast in their tutorials. thanks for the excellent explanation. I will definitely be watching it again!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's a great comment...thanks!

[@gunorijssel7987]

Hi Kent, AS ALWAYS.....an excellent tutorial...IF YOU'VE REACHED THE STAGE TO GRASP WHAT'S GOING ON. Question: you're using the full diminished as a 'kind of' turn around to go back to the 2(in C of course the D minor): 1. Is the full diminished built by definition a-half-step-above- the- ROOT-CHORT; 2. do you play the full diminished 4 beats AND THEN return to the 2 (D minor); 3. am I right that you can ALTERNATE between the full diminished and the 5 of the 2(here: between C SHARP FULL DIMINISHED and A MAJOR CONVERTED)??.....I'm sure you'll understand what I'm talking about....Thank You!!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I can't answer a complex question on this format. Write to my email. Watch my videos on diminished chords ....they can function as dominant 7ths b9s and the scale can be used on dim. chords or dominant chords. Dim. scales start w/ a whole step and dom. chords start w/ a half step.

[@rainerwysocki3554]

lovely, thank you Kent

[@KentHewittpiano88]

You are very welcome

[@lesliedsouza7697]

You have superb teaching skills and I hope to learn from you as I love jazz music.God bless you.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

You can do it!

[@jdeer-qs4dz]

I love you kent you are the best - John (watching this video the tenth time)

[@dibaldgyfm9933]

Maybe people would like to get more examples, just segments of known melodies, like "I Get A Kick Out Of You" (Fitzgerald, not Sinatra), the beginning is from 6th step, but still stepwise; or "As Time Goes By" the beginning of which is originally (and best) harmonized w.2-5-1 (repeated until second half of chorus). There must be many more simple 2-5-1 sections in known tunes, but I can't think of anything better right now. (Did you notice, by the way, that Bergman hums the melody in a wrong way? Cute, but not what the "piano-player Sam" sings and plays). The simple folk-like songs ("Oh Susanna") could benefit when you add the (stressed) subdominant in the second part to show that 2-5-1 isn't the only thing; and in slower tempo you could actually put in a II7 before V; or songs like "The Sloop John B" could demonstrate center tones - though these examples are not jazzy-tunes and may confuse the person who wants to improvise.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Practical examples in tunes is a good idea. I do that in my book a lot. Another example of a song that starts with 2-5-1- is "I've Got You Under My Skin". There's many more. I could do a video on just that subject. in the meantime, I have playlists that have applications of theory in songs . Check it out for categories that interest you. Thanks! kzbin.info/door/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCwplaylists

[@richarpadilla1891]

Great video ,i'm learning with you !

[@brunovonbeck6512]

Great Explanation, thanks

[@KentHewittpiano88]

You are welcome!

[@jameskennedy7093]

This is one of the most understandable of your videos, I think. I really felt like I grasped all of it. Thank you.

[@laurielyon7740]

Hey Kent........another gem. Some cowboys are all hat but not you, my friend. ( I did my best to come up with some line involving headware......!) I’ve touched base on another occasion, despite the fact I play clarinet, not keyboard. But I enjoy your explanations. Keep well during these difficult times. (From Toronto....)

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Recently I thought about taking up the clarinet. Playing another musical instrument helps your overall music knowledge

[@ArtRodent]

At 1:44 I thought "Now I must be getting somewhere, coz' that's just how I play !" Seriously though, Kent, this is a valuable lesson at the stage I've reached in your book (p.60) and as an aside to your starter videos, which i'm working through with much a-plonk. Thank you. Jazz on!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

This is just the beginning. Lots more to show you. Also thanks for buying my book, and hope you will continue to enjoy it. The process and practicing can be fun.

[@remirobedillo6861]

thanks mr kent ,,,really ur a great piano teacher....i learned a lot from u,,,awesome!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for telling me!.

[@Amatteus]

Great -- thanks lot.. very well explained.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thank you1

[@joesauvage1165]

Always inspiring! I listened to this when it first came out and over the past year you inspired me to use the ii-V-I pattern in every scale I practice. This way I get a chance to play around and be creative and improvise on the scales as I continue to practice. I love the diminished set up for the ii chord. Kent, as always thanks for the gift that you are! Be well my swingin’ cat!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That is awesome! Thanks so much, Joe!

[@jennywren8937]

That was really great Kent, I listened and played along, surprising myself. Fortunately, I have good melody lines in my head, but need this kind of lesson to back it up and make it good and get my timing right as well. Jennifer.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks fir the comment., Jennifer. I should do more about timing and swing feel. I have some videos that might help you, in Playlists. There's 12 videos under heading Time and Rhythm. kzbin.info/door/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCwplaylists

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the comment, Jennifer. I'll do more on that in a future video. In the meantime check my Playlists. Click on the category Time and Rhythm , you'll see a list and you can pick out appropriate videos . kzbin.info/door/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCwplaylists

[@jennywren8937]

Kent Hewitt Thanks for that Kent, that should keep me well occupied. I like the idea of backing tracks. J.

[@Chipshotz]

@@jennywren8937 Hi Jenny, I've been researching Backing track software the last few days and came across 'Impro-Visor'. It has been developed by Harvey Mudd College for 12 years and Open Source, so free. There are tutorials here on KZbin you can view.

[@jennywren8937]

Chipshotz Thanks I'll check it out, I find it more helpful than just a metronome.

[@abrahamsetti2143]

Oh my god this is an amazing lesson. Mr Kent you are the best teacher on KZbin learned so much from you

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks ....please send the word....so much appreciated!

[@livingoutsidethebubble]

Great teacher. Thank you for inspiring and educating so many people.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

So nice of you.... Please subscribe!

[@jimjennings7623]

I like all your videos but these two II-V-I lessons are really important and valuable. This is great stuff. Thank you, so much!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great Affirmation..thanks!

[@ckn711]

Jazz seems to be so difficult for me but I like how you break everything down and make it simple to understand. Thanks!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

You're right, it's not easy, but easier than classical music...to me, anyway. Please check out my Playlists for Easy Jazz and Beginner Series. kzbin.info/door/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCwplaylists

[@greenthumb2489]

Great stuff. Double thumbs up.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I read it, thanks!

[@mamba777jv]

Thank you for making it all crystal clear! Gotta master scales and use those passing tones to the max!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Yes, and thanks for a great comment!

[@joejazz67]

Thanks for helping make sense of all these terms thumbs up

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Many people want me to teach the basics...because a lot of my videos are advanced...so here's one for them.... and thanks for the support, Joe!

[@fredrickmendelsohn606]

Kent you are a great teacher

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for a great comment!

[@kempesz]

Great lesson! I've loosed myself to these chords for some hours and can barely get away from them now. Thank you so much, Kent!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the comment and I hope you make good progress.

[@matthew1040]

Kent, you're amazing. Thanks for teaching. I would like to see you live.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for saying that. I play mostly in Rhode Island now, often in Newport. There's fewer gigs ...not like the 80's.

[@TheHighlander71]

Awesome Kent. Enjoyed that very much. Chord inversions are very helpful making a progression more playable. Thanks! Oh..and for the sake of blues, I'd like to add that 12 measures work very well too :)

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Right I talked about 2, 4, 8, etc. but didn't mention the blues which is 12 or 3 sets of 4. The next step here would be to play the 1st inversion voicings , then the 3rd...for a future video I do have an easy recent video on that (A form and B form) here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jpuspoSljthpj6s

[@TheHighlander71]

@@KentHewittpiano88 Thanks. I played around a little with the II-V-I progression today. Works really well. I want to do the same for the Blues I-IV-V to see if I can find some voicings that do the same trick. I'll check out your other video as well. Thanks!

[@spirosmoutsatsos4590]

Lovely teacher thanks

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thank you!

[@christineharmony2375]

Wow! Fabulous video. Thanks

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks so much!

[@davidholmes9588]

Great video Kent, David from UK

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks 👍

[@JohnFred1964]

Thank you. Another great lesson. BTW Does a diminished chord half step below the II always work ?

[@KentHewittpiano88]

It will usually work as an approach to the II chord. It functions similar to V of II.

[@FabioChristian]

Amazing lesson! Hugs from Brazil.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the comment and the hugs!

[@nicolasnyeki3339]

Thank you very much 🙏🙏🙏

[@KentHewittpiano88]

You're most welcome

[@dtblessed]

Sir I want to thank you very much for the tutorial, I am a newby concerning jazz and thank you for explaining the importance of inversions

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Inversions are essential for good voice leading, which is the professional sound. Thanks!

[@phyllishesford428]

What a great video for a beginner - I would not suggest a beginner to leave this lesson and click on a B. H. video -- I'm still confused 3 days after checking him out!!! So you are 1 hour from Hartford - not bad - what is your teaching schedule Kent and your lesson fee? Thanks for your response....

[@KentHewittpiano88]

You're referring to Barry Harris I guess. Please send me an email, Phyllis, at [e-mail]. Right now I'm on vacation, back home on 3/16. Cheers!

[@usmansax]

The best improv. Lesson I’ve got. 🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Wonderful for me to hear....thanks!

[@mikerosenbush3516]

This is a great review, and exactly what I’m practicing! Thanks for making this a video and being a patient and awesome teacher! For the turnaround chord, I get that A7 comes from being a V of ii, but where does the C diminished derive from? It’s sounds beautiful! Just trying to piece that theory together. Would also love to get your thoughts on how to logically move this progression to another key and whether modulating to specific keys makes sense. Keep up the awesome content (I watched all 26minutes btw. You always have my complete attention with these! ;) )

[@gibas79]

Thank you very much for the video, Mr. Hewitt! I've got the same curiosity as Mike. The C diminished sounds really beautiful, but where the B flat from the chord comes from? I understand that the use of A7 is related to the D Major scale, but there's no A#/B flat in the Major scales from this II-V-I sequence. But, again, it sounds GREAT! Thank you for the video and for the awesome explanation!

[@bunbun154]

I dont know a ton of theory but The c# diminished is the same as an A7 with a b9 (rootless voicing) so it’s following the 5 1 pattern but adding the flat nine creates more tension and it sounds really nice when it’s resolved. Nicer then if u were to only resolve the major 3rd. I think it’s modal interchange where u borrow a chord from another key. A lot of songs do it. Again I might be wrong this is just how I make sense of it in my brain. If anyone has a forsure answer I’d love to hear it too lol!

[@mikerosenbush3516]

noland mcdoowee Ah! Thank you! Thinking of it as A7b9 makes perfect sense to my brain too. Thank you for sharing that!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

The C# diminished chord is functioning like a V7b9 of the chord it's approaching (Dm), however the root is C# so it creates a chromatic (1/2) step approach from below. it sounds good to mix up the bass line with some cyclical movement (V-I) and some chromatic movement. (C#o is the 3rd, 5th, b7, b9 of the A7 chord, so it's acting like a rootless A7alt. ) See more of my videos on diminished chords. kzbin.info/www/bejne/j4GmXnSjr9h2l8k

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks, Mike. I answered the 1st question below. The C#o is functioning like a V7b9, that's rootless...so the root motion has a chromatic approach. This diminished chord is the upper extension of the V of II. If I wanted this video to be longer I would have shown how to modulate to other keys. I would start with F and then G. That's for another video, because I try to make these not too long.

[@dannuttle9005]

Man, I wish I'd had this video thirty years ago. This is the kind of eye-opener, the key to the lock, that I needed. But better late than never!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Better late than never, I always say too!

[@joeywayne8]

Absolutely loved this lesson! You are an awesome instructor! You are very patient n detailed!👍😁

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's great feedback Kathryn,,,,and I appreciate that so much!

[@ebolds4918]

Great video! Your tips brought together a lot of concepts I’ve been trying to understand regarding improvisation.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Your comment is helpful to me...thanks!

[@bonganimgobhozi3327]

Much appreciated.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thank you!

[@crashkahuna]

I really like this. When I get out there and don't know where I'm going I come back to the ii V I and this is sensible way to work on melodies. Your stuff is both technical and grooving at the same time.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great comment, and insight. Please write to me so we can converse.

[@theodorethelin8921]

learned something new.! instead of the fifth leading to a chord you can take the chromatic path and use a Dflat diminished to get back to d minor seventh then to G7 and then C Major. cool!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's a great thing to learn...thanks for telling me!

[@hochzeitssangerinelise4452]

Great explanation, Thank you so much 🙏

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Glad it was helpful!

[@emmetthouse5600]

Mr Kent thx you so much for all your lessons we will get better soon 👍

[@creative1able]

Thanks so much, Kent! Target tones- now I know! Vertical and horizontal --aha! Succinct, clear instruction! Swingin' loose...

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Glad to help

[@rachelsmename]

Oops, sorry, I just found your video on minor scales improv. Next time I should look first!

[@josej6846]

Thank you so much, very valuable concepts

[@KentHewittpiano88]

So nice of you.

[@sambsialia]

Great stuff! No denying.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks!