IMPROVISE BETTER: Using Special Tips for - "SATIN DOLL", Jazz Tutorial

[@pontius2520]

I think too many aspiring musicians fail to realize the underlying logic of music. Although it is supremely important to "feel it", there is way more to it than that. It is a language and a sophisticated Art form that requires a great deal of practice and understanding. I think many musicians (myself included) go thru a phase where they think doing technical study and theory study limits creativity when in fact it is the wellspring and foundation of creativity. It is the canvas or backdrop for the story or picture to unfold. What I love about improvisation is that to learn it well is not just learning how to solo but it is learning the bigger picture of how music and Art works and how to communicate important ideas that are difficult if not impossible to convey with talk.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and wisdom. I've tried to deal with that subject if you look at the body of my work on You Tube, as well as my book. You've made some essential points. kzbin.info/door/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCwplaylists?view_as=subscriber

[@IvanArdillo]

This is probably the comment with the highest amount of wisdom under a jazz video ever found on KZbin

[@maryquimbo]

i love how you add so much meaning to the music, rather than just playing mindless scales. great tutorial!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Hi Mary...That's a great comment, and I'm grateful!

[@nirvana12360]

Legendary. I'll take this knowledge throughout my life and always remember how it was communicated to me.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

You made my day with that wonderful comment. I''ll always remember these words. God bless, K

[@DuduWakeman]

"the rules are meant to be broken" that changed my life

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Exactly right...thanks for telling me!

[@pickinstone]

That last concept, about the shape of a melodic line or a the shape and direction of a solo... That's the stuff that separates those that play an instrument with those that play a "story". I really wish more people would go into that aspect of improvisation. We've got too many videos on "what scale to use" or "cool jazz licks". There aren't enough videos on the intricacies of shaping a solo or building on phrases. I guess that's a skill that comes with time and maturity (not age, but musical maturity). Anyway, thanks for at least going into that rarely tread trail: the architecture of a solo.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's a very superior comment, and a compliment to me. These are things that took me years to understand on this level. But it's really just the way I look at it now...it's not everyone's cup of tea.

[@johnabess6428]

This lesson was chock full of helpful concepts. You are an excellent teacher. Your books are also well written, easy to read and to understand. Thank you for sharing your talent and expertise.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the compliment and endorsement on my book...that's very helpful to me!

[@Boywhocriedrainbow]

I just stumbled onto your channel looking for someone to help me with my piano playing and instantly fell in love. I love your stories and piano playing. I can't wait to hear more! Thank you!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks so much...that's very encouraging! kzbin.info/door/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCwplaylists?view_as=subscriber

[@robertcox4546]

Your solos in this and your other videos really breathe, nicely. They are so enjoyable to listen to and follow. I aspire to do the same in my guitar and now, piano playing. Thanks as always Kent!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I guess to make a solo breathe...you have to relax and let things flow in a way that is not forced. It has to feel very natural... to translate musical statements into the concept of a eloquent orator....and that's not always easy for me or anyone. But many of the "greats" do it so well.

[@gaugeonesteam]

Can definitely hear a bit of John Mehegan in this one. I used to have one of his books. lent it to a girlfriend who had a piano. got dumped and never got the book back! When I was 16 (55 now) I used to sneak into a local hotel on Sunday evenings to hear the very good 'Dennis Taylor trio' (piano,bass,drums) playing "straight jazz" - (that's what it said on the poster outside). (I should have been 18) More great stuff KH.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for sharing your story, Robin. I have Mehegan's books and I took a lesson from him once. I also know what it's like to lend records or books to girlfriends or friends and never get them back. That's just how it goes. Swing loose!

[@tzidad4127]

AMAZING JOB KENT. THANKS A LOT.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

You are very welcome

[@fritzr5819]

Always a pleasure to listen to your tutorials Kent, and always something to learn.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I apprecaite the comment.

[@JaymesLeavitt]

Kent you are the best. Thank you for sharing this video. Great lesson.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for watching

[@parlomur7515]

The life is more beautiful with you. Kentifull. Merci

[@KentHewittpiano88]

You said it beautifully! Thanks!

[@richardallen1961]

This song has been a favorite of mine since I was a Kid , like fifty years ago. And Kent the groove maestro smoked it. Or as my son says " that guy shreds " .Uh yeah he does. The Duke set this on up so well for improv. Kent Im going to copy your riffs on this one. Sorry but hey... This was an amazingly insightful lesson. You just keep getting better. A note to those just tuning into these righteous riffs, get the book. It so helps to grasp these advanced concepts. Thanks once again Kent for helping me escape mediocrity. You Rock!!! Swing Loose!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great comment, Richard. or should I say "Very groovy, Man!". I don't hang out with kids, so I don't know the latest hip talk. Anyway, I dig you, so keep watching and swing loose!

[@steventoddscorpiomusic5588]

Your videos are very helpful in developing good jazz stylings Mr Kent Hewitt.. Great job!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I appreciate the comment!

[@anthonysilva5312]

Kent, you cool cat! That’s the most sense the dominant ego man ever made. I’m lucky that my parents never discouraged me from music. Although it never amounted to a career for me, it has uplifted me and gotten me through some of the most difficult times . Music: my eternal friend.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Anthony, you are my brother, from now and through eternity. The spirit of jazz lives on through us. It's a healing force. Always swing loose!

[@phyllishesford7236]

This will always be a favorite video of mine..you rocked it Kent! Beautiful song with surpurb teaching of this particular concept I'm so glad u quit the hamburger business!!🎶🎹😘😗😎

[@warrendoris9669]

Yo. Dude you have me cracking.up as soon as i saw the whiteout! You are absolutely correct! Peace!😎😎

[@KentHewittpiano88]

You are a cat...join the elite club!

[@michaelshark1]

Great learning video ken!! You hit soo many important concepts. Especially the one about communicating your solo melodically and with a purpose. I have been a music teacher for decades and recommend your book. In my opinion one of the most concise jazz method books written.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks so much, Michael. You honor me, esp. because you know about teaching, which is an art to be appreciated. Also thanks for the book endorsement.

[@sauxphilippe]

A real pleasure to learn with you thanks ,all become so clear event without knowing notes !like me !my ears are enouth to me !

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Sometimes ears are the best way to get the meaning of things.

[@user-sz4sm5ks6e]

Your playing is so tasteful. Your lines are always melodic!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Many thanks...here I an again 1 day behind and 50 comments to answer.

[@stradaveriusfiddle]

Thank you Kent! This reminds me of the 'Design 101', (and 102) classes that I took as an Art Major in college. These are really valuable reminders of concepts to keep in mind. You put together a wonderful sounding 'Satin Doll'. Thanks for presenting all of these classic ideas for keeping a sense of purpose and design in our improvising. I've been playing off and on, for a lot of years, but I still have too always remind myself to try to do something so it 'doesn't just sound like a wind chime' when I take a solo. 🤓

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's a funny bit, strad...the wind chime analogy. Your words are wise and perceptive, and you honor me, so I'll take that, ...with modesty...even if ADEM says"modesty is for those who have no talent!" You have an artist's perspective.

[@marcosquito]

That's THE music !!! Thank you very much !!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I appreciate the comment, Marcos!

[@billfriesTPA]

Love your videos! Thank you Kent!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thank you!

[@rogerball6265]

Like to see how a pianist approaches all aspects of playing. It is for the most part different than guitarists. Makes you think differently. A lot of fun.

[@daveadams5]

Kent, I just had to write and comment on yet another really excellent video. I too in common with some of the other comments think that the "lines" you play here are just great and truly inspirational. There's loads of information and technique here to keep the amateur player like myself going for years! I've set my self the target of trying to learn your solos here and use them as a place to jump from into some of my own improv ideas. Thankyou so much for posting another wonderful video. You are the KZbin King of this stuff Kent. Cheers and stay well from Merry ol' England.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I think you have a good idea, Dave. I always talk about the benefits of imitation and transcribing solos. So I'm flattered when someone thinks my solos are worth transcribing.

[@perrycapitani544]

I'm a big fan of yours and love your book. One area that I wish had additional coverage is improvizing over quick chord changes in (seemingly) different keys. The first four bars of Darn That Dream is a good example. Nothing I try sounds good to me.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Hi Perry, please watch my latest videos in which I've created an exercise to play in all 12 keys and then applied it to a tune that has quick key changes in 2 measures. Let me know if it helps.

[@JeremyL1983]

@@KentHewittpiano88 Hi Kent, this is 2 years late. Any idea what’s the name of that video?

[@ronmoron]

Thank you, Kent, all your videos are so great, even when I think I know a lot of the concepts I always discover something new and amazing when I'm watching these. I only wish my technique was anywhere near as good as my theory, but I'm enjoying it, and your videos just make me enjoy it all the more.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Hi Ron, It's such an honor to be giving my knowledge to you and others. When you write to me, it makes it all the more worthwhile. Bless you, Kent Hewitt

[@Katz_Can]

Thank you kent!! Your videos are always Amazing, Informative and Entertaining

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the great comment!

[@johankjolbro9064]

thanks for the tips kent, this is the stuff you can only learn through experience or through being taught by people with experience

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's exactly correct...and thanks for saying that!

[@Wazoox]

As always, a very beautiful melodic improvisation, Thank you Ô master for all your wisdom :)

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the eloquent compliment. Just doing my job.

[@ArtRodent]

This is a fascinating lesson. Much appreciated Kent.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I appreciate the nice comment!

[@phyllishesford7236]

Kent..you rock! This will be a favorite video of mine...satin doll was amazing & the teaching concepts were as usual " the best"...thanks so much for leaving the Hamburger Joint!!🍔🍔🍟

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That was easy, when you consider the nature of the job. It's a fun story to tell, and I'm sure we all have those kind of stories. Thanks Phyllis...your'e the best!

[@jackmeginniss6327]

Another great job and many more great ideas. Thanks.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great comment...thanks!

[@jackmeginniss6327]

Kent Hewitt My pleasure, Kent. I look forward to exploring your arrangements every day. Love the fact that you demonstrate so many styles even in one given arrangement.

[@johnnymisbegotten]

Thanks Kent for sharing your knowledge. Kent's website has a wealth of free music scores to go along with his free videos, and you can buy his music theory book there which is a bargain at $50. On a side note, I started playing the piano again about 10 years ago off and on, and think Kent's videos are the best for getting into jazz for beginning to intermediate level players like myself . I remember when I first started playing again my mom was in the hospital and about a week before she passed away I asked her why she gave me piano lessons when I was in grade school being I didn't practice much and she said she wanted to keep me out of trouble!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's funny John, because my parents discovered after giving me piano lessons for a number of years, I got interested in jazz, and then all sorts of crazy musician characters began showing up for jam sessions in our basement music room; my parents thought I was getting into trouble with the wrong crowd, and sent me off to prep school, which landed me in business college, and a banking career. (which lasted about 3 years).

[@paultuvman5267]

Excellent as always Kent...thanks so much!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for watching and the comment!

[@guitargod6997]

Excellent video content and always inspirational cool piano playing!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks Jay. Johnny's Atlantic Beach Club, tomorrow Sunday, 2-7 w/ Greg Abate.

[@corinneclancy2112]

Another super lesson Kent and....... as always...... you inspire me. Thanks so much. Corinne :-)

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Knowing I can inspire is the greatest compliment...thanks, Corinne.

[@gaugeonesteam]

Reckon the KH has been holding out on us! I searched Kent Hewitt trio. Beautiful album called : 'Times on my hands' from 2015 or maybe before? Proper cool! Using all the lessons he's trying teach all us jazz piano fans! (also the intros to the videos) Sorry if its me behind the curve??!! Don't be shy Kent. You've got the 'proper' sound we want to learn. Love that 'Herbie Hancock' one called 'Dolphin Dance'.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks so much for the CD endorsement. Not many people are interested in albums anymore or performance videos. I'm pleased when someone wants one of my CDs. I don't even list all the ones of done.

[@warrenwilson7836]

1. Love your work and teaching. What a legacy. Thank you. Again. 2. Making me feel better about the future: I played a gig last week with a young vocalist (18-year-old guy) who nailed Sinatra, Nat King, etc. Made me feel part of the Rat Pack. 3. Guy had such a great ear he has been able to get by without reading or any theory: can grab a note in the middle out of thin air after finishing the last tune in another key altogether - do you know any strong vocalists who made it professionally without any theory or ability to read? I’ve been pushing him to stiudy.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the comment and sharing, Warren. I'm sure there are great vocalists who just have a natural talent and great ears. Nat Cole played piano so he knew music in depth, so did Mel Torme. But I doubt that Dean Martin played piano or Johnny Mathis, and how great were they!!

[@mooglytonker]

Thanks KZbin spied on me and somehow know I just printed satin doll out yesterday

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks!

[@dkwvt13]

An excellent lesson pointing out some deceptively simple concepts that prove much more difficult in execution. We (I) tend to get so wrapped up in where we are going in a solo we forget to stop, breathe and look around. The guy who runs our weekly jam has a simple approach he shares regularly, the solo should mimic the chord structure, introduction, tension, resolution and be musical not robotic. Thank You...! 😎

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and references, Donald. I always enjoy what you have to say.....keeps me going!

[@dkwvt13]

Kent Hewitt No, Thank You...! Your work keeps Me going...! 😎

[@Tony-Madisson]

Great lesson! Good morning from the Netherlands 🌷

[@KentHewittpiano88]

And good evening from New England...swing loose!

[@Chipshotz]

You're a good man Kent. Be well.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the support!

[@trainroomgary]

Hi Kent: Excellent song for this piano tutorial. • Cheers from The Detroit & Mackinac Railway 🚂

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great to hear from you, traingary. Trains, cars, and boats...my favorites. I have 2 out of 3, still missing my trains.

[@mutlumutlu4108]

Please more improvisation video Mr Hewitt. Thanks.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Go to my playlists for more, please!

[@aeh2499]

ขอบคุณมากๆๆๆๆครับ means Thank you very very mush my jazz teacher,

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks so much!

[@benwinstanleymusic]

thanks mr Hewitt

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thank you!

[@henkvandruten1608]

thanks for Satin Doll Kent. Nice backing track you have. Where can I find that track pls?

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Backing tracks are available on KZbin if you Google the title. No luck, write to me.

[@paulmidi9207]

Thank you for giving me so many things to work on. About your alter ego I thought he was going to say after you quit your job and all you went through the chick stood you up that’s how the story would’ve ended for me!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Actually it worked out for me, went to the festival, I had a great time with so and so, and got a better job that summer. But I can relate to your situation.

[@Wazoox]

Your story was neat, altered-dominant Man :)

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Glad you dug it!

[@Robert-ts2ef]

Wonderful interpretation of a classic, a pleasure to listen to. Bravo sir!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great comment and very helpful to me, thanks!

[@Malcolm.Y]

For me, this is always a difficult improvise. The chords are simple and suggest little, and the composer uses the flat-5 sub in measure 6, taking outside notes from the soloist. I got some interesting ideas from watching you play. I like the way you throw the "lydian" note (C# on the Dm7-G) during the solo. It also sounds like you used in measure 5 of the head, on the D7, you have E-G#-B-D in the right hand. There are some other things you did, and I am not sure why they work, but I added them to my bag. Thank you. But, I do have a criticism. Your discussions is not based on analyzing what you actually played. Anyway, I plan to watch some more of you and steal some more of your stuff. Thanks, again.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I'm glad you are learning by the visual. Yes, I do not analyze everything that I play exactly. But I do try to cover the most important points . Thanks for the comment.

[@Kenji-ug5bo]

3:15 - start of tutorial. don't get me wrong, i like his talk but i need to learn too. it's for me. when i come back to this video to learn the improv style

[@KentHewittpiano88]

The best way to learn is to listen...and imitate. You need to develop your ears to hear the music.

[@Kenji-ug5bo]

@@KentHewittpiano88 Appreciate the teachings, Kent! 🙏 i shall strive to improve my improv from you. good man

[@jamesfilosa6277]

Nice video as always.. BUT... I see a missed pun-opportunity: IMPROVE-ISE.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Do you mean "it's so easy...to improve?!" Easier said than done.

[@Valdisvaldis]

hello how can I by your book?

[@KentHewittpiano88]

The link under the video will show you my website and there's a book page and an online store...thanks!

[@lorenzocastelano4946]

4:28

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the link!

[@edgarvanoostrum8450]

Man, I really need another life ... :D

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I can dig that!

[@user-kn6cd6bd8b]

老爷子吃啥好吃的呢，牙挺好啊。

[@carterbailey1396]

&

[@KentHewittpiano88]

&&

[@adnls6926]

2 min and 20 secondes of ego man, what's wrong with him?

[@KentHewittpiano88]

He's his own man, and he's very confident....something I need to learn.