IMPROVISING ON ONE EASY SCALE: "Autumn Leaves"- MODES- Part 3

[@benzen78]

Thanks Kent! Excellent explanations as always! It seems far less obscure to me. Time to practice now... ;)

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I try to unveil some of the mysteries.....

[@benzen78]

​@@KentHewittpiano88 That is really helpful :) From a classical formation, I'm beginning in jazz and you and your books are probably the best ressource I found on the whole internet for beginners out there. So thank you a lot. I just have one question: what is the process you recommend in order to acquire the agility you've got while playing the solo from 3:30 ? My guess is that you imagined these music patterns in your mind, then maybe you wrote them and you practiced them a lot, beginning slowly, then faster and faster, so you get agility and know them by heart, and you have sort of a "toolbox" to play a proper Autumn Leaves solo. In that case, jazz players would always reuse their same patterns, which seems weird to me, so it's maybe not the right way to practice... Or is it more generic, like you created and learned several patterns for each mode ? I mean, I understand that the brain can use target tones and passing tones to improvise a melodic solo on the fly, but at this level of speed this has to be something learned before. Or is it simply patterns you recover from the massive amount of jazz pieces you have red and played for like the past 20 years ? :) maybe it's a bit of all that, but it confuses me at this point...

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks, benzen78, a complex question requires a complex answer. Like you say: it is a bit of all of that but then not some of that and some of other things. I guess when I was a kid learning piano, I had somewhat of a knack for making up melodies off the cuff. So that is just natural. My mother and sister played piano but they couldn't do that. I enjoyed practicing and when I got interested in jazz I listened to a lot of recordings and went to jazz clubs in New York. I tried to imitate what jazz players were doing when they improvised. I learned a lot of solos from transcriptions. In a way, I wish I could hear how I improvised then and compare it to now, but unfortunately I don't have any recordings of myself then. As far as agility or technique is concerned, I did practice a lot of drills and exercises to develop technique. Also I learned bebop repertoire- which is essential, for mastering improvisation. I try not to play things that I've learned or prepared ahead of time like specific licks. I try to be original and fresh on every solo. The only "toolbox" I use is my knowledge of scales that fit chords and how to use them to create good melodies. If you listened to the preview video I did just before this one, the solo is completely different. I do a number of takes of songs I play on videos and every one is different from the other. That's how it should be. But it's also risky and subject to flaws. I try to pick the one I like the best, for a variety of reasons.Sometimes working specific ideas out ahead of time is a good idea. I usually don't do that but prefer to be spontaneous and often that can be rewarding and more satisfying. I'm a big critic of my solos. and reject most of the takes. Sometimes I'll only have one out of 10 that I really like. You have to learn to except your flaws, because everyone is their own best critic. (see there you go, I wrote more words than you, but it's 5:45am and I can't sleep....cheers!)

[@benzen78]

​@@KentHewittpiano88 Well that is very impressive. I like to create my own songs and each time I play them I try to improve them, but I always rely on what I built before. If I find a specific chord or melody that I like, it will stay in the song the next time I play it. That's rather a classical approach. As far as I understand improvisation is totally different, you don't rely on your past solos. You are never sure that what you play will be as great as what you played last time. And you're ready to lose a great lick for another one. It's a totally different approach that is not easy for me to accept, at least it's far from obvious to me. Ok if I recap, a methodology for improvisation would be to hang on and practice a lot of scales and solo transcriptions, and be satisfied more by the fact to do a great solo than by what you actually play (at least avoid trying to memorize it!), is that right? Still progressing in your book, I want to make it in order but I guess chapters 23-24 will be the key ;) Thanks a lot for your time. I really appreciate what you do and the fact you answer to your followers, it should be time consuming!! Very nice from you. Take care Kent

[@chrisSkordPiano]

@@KentHewittpiano88 some? you unveil alot of them!!! thank you for sharing your knowledge!

[@pjeremiah15]

With the exception of Steve Kuhn this is the best Autumn Leaves I’ve ever heard in my life. My My My, this was incredible. This gentleman is the best of all the jazz teachers I’ve heard on KZbin. Thank You!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great compliment...thanks so much...very helpful to me!

[@RM-gm7lu]

That introduction performance was amazing to watch. A master of the craft!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great comment, thanks so much!

[@nahuelcalvino3300]

what happens to me with this man is that i start watching the video like "oh yeah today i'm gonna pay attention and learn from him" but I always end like enjoying the way he plays and I just listen, I love it thanks a lot!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I appreciate your comment, more than you know!

[@ryanjerzak2015]

It's so cool to be able to play piano along to these videos at half speed. It helps a ton if you pay attention to how Kent sets up his fingers and hands before he plays a chord or a phrase.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's a cool comment, I'm glad you found the tips video, wish more people would do that.

[@lauriewinestock4195]

I love how you take this Classic Standard and anylize it so thoroughly - showing practical examples for so many of the possiblities of Modes, Scales, etc. Helps me see it again and again, from so many diverse angles. I have sung this tune for years. Now I feel I can attempt an interesting vocal improv built on your diverse analysis of the changes and scales etc. -- Love your explanation of 'target tones' and passing tones ... so helpful.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great Laurie.....again I'm so glad I could open up a new world of music appreciation for you.....it's my greatest aspiration!

[@edwardaviles6665]

In a lifetime there comes the moment to be a "maestro". Thanks for your teaching.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

You are very welcome. and thanks for the compliment.

[@stevem6696]

been trying to develop my jazz improv skills for years (decades really) and felt that I plateaued a long time ago -- your channel (and playing) are phenomenal and I can see a way forward. A couple of videos of yours (and some practice) and I've already improved. Thank you!!!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I'm glad to hear it! Check out these: kzbin.info/aero/PLFuMibnl_h5bA7Um3IZ38R1kelnoRTPYc

[@MrDreFunk]

Out of allllllllll the bop videos I’ve studied to enhance my scales/runs, this by far has been the most helpful to my growth! You broke it down to where it can’t be broke no mo! Thank you Sir!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great comment, MrFunkl...you are a hip cat and your comment is very helpful and affirming to me.

[@dougswindowonnature9438]

I have had an inordinate amount of free time the past two weeks, and have been getting a jazz piano education. I go back to work in two days, and was lucky to have come across your part 3 of modes in improvisation. Really gained a lot from that . My previous lessons have been about tritone substitution and voicing, and your vid just rounded it all out. Thanks.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for telling me that these lessons have been helpful to you. Please review my Playlists, and find the category of subject matter that is most appealing to you. Swing loose! kzbin.infoplaylists

[@sallysigler727]

So OK, after years of, “Huh, what,” I see now how the modes are used in improv, and, honestly, if I can accomplish this on a “beginner level” for playing standards, I’d be beyond happy! I’d leave “advancing to bebop” to the cool guys like Kent! So thanks, Kent for your comprehensive explanation! I love listening to your mini music theory lectures and, of course, your masterful playing! 🎹👍😍

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great, Sally, thanks o much for the comment!

[@salmanabedin1313]

It's such a pleasure to see you go off like that! Much love and respect.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Humble thanks. (don't mind him, he's just showing off).

[@brendaboykin3281]

Thanx, Jazz Elder. Esp. needed in these chaotic times. Thanks for your contribution to our psychological wellbeing, spiritual health and musical growth. You are a treasure and a gift. Blessings on your creative journey. I can D. I. G. I. T. 😎❤️🙏😎

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Dear Brenda, you must be a wonderful person....as well as a groovy chick...Thanks for the compliments and nice to know you!

[@michaelfrangos8587]

I've had many music instructors for many years, but none as good as you. Thanks for sharing.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's wonderful to hear...why am I not more popular on KZbin?

[@JulianLambert]

Wonderful Kent, as always, and I am enjoying the new look with sight of your head talking to us. Great solo at the start too, really enjoyed that! Take care,

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thank, Julian, your comment helps me to keep going!

[@inigogortazar2836]

Thanks Kent, its hard work what youve done in your channel, every video! God bless philantrophyst like you! Have a good one

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I haven';t been called by that (word) before so I will cherish that....because it is an honor to give...but I have received much more, ....and you are a part of that, my good friend.

[@fredrickmendelsohn606]

As usual your explanation is super clear. Thanks Kent

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's what I strive for, so thanks so much!

[@СимеонПанов-б5я]

Your such a cool jazzcat,thanks for all your lessons Kent,stay healthy and keep on groovin...

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for a great comment...swing loose, brother!

[@imaginesoundstudio7156]

Thank you so much for the wonderful videos! Best jazz piano on KZbin

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Very groovy, daddio. Much obliged. Swing loose!

[@imaginesoundstudio7156]

@@KentHewittpiano88 I've been watching you for years and have a lot to thank you for! Keep the vids coming (:

[@monika1234ify]

You're excellent. I've been learning Autumn Leaves from sheet music, and know that I need to jazz it up a bit. I've been playing for awhile, but haven't yet really attempted to learn or master the nodes. Challenge accepted.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for telling me that you are taking on the challenge. Bravo!

[@PRAD1983001]

Just want to say thank you for you have done for jazz lover. For me it is like uncover the magic, also, like your quote too.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I appreciate the comment.

[@hadisurya9225]

Good teaching on me Kent, thank you im a new be for playing piano.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Glad to hear!

[@dbrapowell1306]

Kent, that's a very tasty rendition of Autumn Leaves. You are one of the greatest pianist of our era.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I'll just say humble thanks, D'bra. It's good practice to take compliments gracefully. Glad to "see" you again.

[@Talentocubano]

Great tutorial, Keep them coming.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks, will do!

[@ritasmith7164]

Hey Kent, was watching this today and love how you made this video with the view of your hands plus seeing you talk and play. And oh how you play--even your manner is so incredibly musical!!! As always, thank you for your great videos and your book is outstanding!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks. I had to watch it again to remember. The 2 camera aspect took about 4 times as much work to do, just synchronizing everything, so I only did it on a few videos. I do think it is better in some ways, but it takes the viewer's concentration off of the hands, which are much more important. Overall It may be more entertaining however, but I'm not sure if the extra amount of work involved is worth it...say you? . Thanks also for the comment on my book...blessings, brother!

[@inbetweennames4438]

Kent, you are such a good teacher! I teach piano for a living, so I really appreciate it when I come across someone who has honed their craft.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's a very nice comment coming from a compadre in the field. Good wishes to you, and thanks!

[@fabtoled]

Thank you Sir, I wish I could like your videos twice, your lessons are really clear and loaded, and it's so nice to hear you swing and try to make it easy for us. And that Herbie cat looks like an easy going fellow!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I appreciate the comment. That's good feedback. Herbie is very affectionate and a real character...but he's very vary...which I guess is good for a cat.

[@annetteeastwood9214]

Kick start to the year from a staunch Zimbabwean fan who is gonna attempt the first part of this fabulous improvisation!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks so much for telling me, Annette...I wish I could visit you someday...and I'm sure we would always be loyal friends.

[@ivangarcia1159]

Superb improvisation and wisdom, thank you for another great lesson Kent

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Much appreciation, Ivan. keeps me going!

[@peterklo5119]

Thank you very much. Very inspiring like always. You can make rules easy to understand.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the affirmation, Peter!

[@nickpilgrim1966]

Really great lesson 👏

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Glad you think so!

[@dkwvt13]

Great series with a nice explanation of the "slipping" major scale over the different degrees. I love your comping choices in the first section of the video, the left hand work would make a nice addition to this demonstration... Thank You!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I do have a few videos on left hand voicings and how I use them. Check out Chords and Comping on my Playlist page (on channel Page). kzbin.info/door/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCwplaylists

[@dkwvt13]

I will, Thank You...!

[@marcelolinhares8233]

Thanks a lot!!! What a a great explanation !!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Glad it was helpful!

[@GME17i]

Another brilliant lesson Kent. I get it ! Still have to get there but I understand and you had me experimenting on the keyboard with you. Have to learn those modes properly though. Thank you so much.👏😊

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks, Corinne...your comments are always the best!

[@brucejeric6701]

I love Herbie!!! Got many tuxedo cats. Really cool Cats!!!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Gotta love cats. we have Jinx and Herbie! Herbie loves music...Jinx loves food!

[@Kenji-ug5bo]

I love the left hand coordination while thinkin‘ up an improv on the right!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great comment and observation!

[@keithcowen5220]

Great video.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@dangelobenjamin]

What a sweet cat. Herby puts up with you holding him, not all cats take that so kindly. You must be a good owner! Thanks for these videos Kent. Although not incredibly useful for me beyond how I normally use your videos, I'm grateful you took the time to talk about these fundamental concepts with this much detail. I surely had some help understanding these concepts. New musicians have the best resource now! I usually play this tune in g minor if I'm with a trumpet player or vocalist, and always in e minor when I'm playing with a guitarist.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Herbie jumps on our laps when we are sitting like at the computer or watching television and then demands to be petted and then purrs. He's quite a character! Thanks for the comment.

[@АнатолийЛысак-ъ4м]

Thanks Kent! Отличная импровизация! Очень нравится мне Ваш стиль игры! Это действительно здорово!!

[@jazzerson7087]

Perfect format now with the piano extending across and you in the window, cheers.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

It's a lot trickier, but I'm trying to improve my channel, but I need more help w/ the technical stuff.. Thanks!

[@claricemouraopontes7291]

Love It,, 🙏🥀🙏 thank you...🎶

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for listening

[@Chipshotz]

Thanks Kent, this one hit home on issues I've been contemplating.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for telling me!

[@DavidMora01]

Great Master. Thanks a lot!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Humble thanks!

[@ferelizo1]

Great! Still trying myself to make simple what is complex. But, how to get the answer if you do not have the question? Now, at least I got the question! I will follow your vidieos with great interest! Thanks!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great comment, thanks!

[@guitargod6997]

Great info and commentary about modes. Just have to add that I heard Kent Hewitt play solo piano professionally when we were both a lot younger, and I have never forgotten the experience and how much he impressed me. Back then I also often used to hear the great sax player, Scott Hamilton, play, and I would so like to hear the two of you together.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I was asked to play a gig with Scott more recently, and I declined (because I though I wouldn't measure up). I guess I was more confidant when I was younger and knew less...you know how that works sometimes?. Thanks for being there, Jay.

[@guitargod6997]

@@KentHewittpiano88 I suspect that you suffer from the musician's disease of making the perfect the enemy of the good. You could hold you own with Lester Young, though I wouldn't count on him making the gig. You and Scott would make - pardon the expression - "beautiful music" together. But seriously, thanks for being the humble remarkable musician you are which is a mark of someone with a gift.

[@guitargod6997]

Fact is that what Kent is dispensing is like graduate level instruction gratis to the world of aspiring players. You are deserving of wider recognition and support.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks, Jay, you're the best!

[@jonathanlehmann2059]

Kent, you are a very talented musician and equally talented teacher as so many other people have mentioned. I'm on the lookout for notifications from your channel :)

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I appreciate the comment!

[@billweathers5080]

Terrific teaching! I’m gonna subscribe!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I appreciate the comment and affirmation!

[@robinmarwick1982]

Brilliant, inspiring and very informative ...love Herbie as well. Once again Kent thanks. I feel that I've learned a great deal from you.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for telling, me, Robin, and for writing to me. Your kind words are very helpful..

[@SantoshMulekarMusic]

Thanks a lot 🙏🙏

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the comment.

[@SantoshMulekarMusic]

You are amazing sir

[@stevekellar1403]

FANTASTIC LESSON KENT! STILL TEACHING A CUT ABOVE THE REST AND I'M STILL LEARNING ! CRYSTAL CLEAR MAN !

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks Steve...your comments are always THE BEST!!!

[@sprucewood]

another Great video, Kent! thank you once again !!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the comment!

[@johna6648]

Truly amazing and helpful! Thank you!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Many thanks for telling me!

[@johncruz9290]

Great explanation

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Glad it was helpful!

[@chetheflin7447]

That was some really nice playing. Beautiful interpretation. From a 1982 North Texas graduate. Thank you.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Were you in the music program?. Drummer Ed Soph teaches there or did teach there. He played in my trio in Hartford years ago. Thanks for the comment!

[@chetheflin7447]

Kent Hewitt Yes. I was a jazz studies major between 1978-1982. I was on scholarship for jazz guitar and jazz arranging. Jack Peterson was my jazz guitar teacher. Dan Haerle taught jazz theory and improvisation, plus, he was an amazing piano player. Rich Matteson was also there, played jazz euphonium. Paris Rutherford was my jazz arranging teacher. It was a wonderful time. I really enjoy your playing.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Okay, I think Ed started teaching there in the late 80's, so you would have missed seeing him. I know the school has the best reputation for jazz studies, as does Berklee in Boston.

[@chetheflin7447]

Kent Hewitt I simply asked my high school band teacher what college had the best jazz program, and I went to high school in California. He said North Texas. It was a big adjustment, California to Texas, but he was right. Your teaching is every bit as good as that school. Thanks for all the great jazz piano and music theory videos.

[@luisjoseromerocastellanos890]

OMG Amazing!!! Big hugs kent!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Big hugs, my brother...and may your music bring you (and yours) much joy in life!

[@franzgapasin3226]

Tnkq Mr hewiit, this is a very informative video. Waiting for part4, hope you explain the deference between major and minor modes. Tnkq

[@cns7139]

Franz Gapasin Try KH's parts one and two for more info on the major and minor usage... minor scales are actually major scales displaced, starting on a different note. Part two moves pretty fast, so I listened more than once. Intermediate level, I believe...

[@mikedavino2400]

You do the same exact thing as you did with the major in the key of C ..the fun part is having to learn them in all the other keys. NOT!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Also there's modes of the harmonic minor and melodic minor too. It can get pretty interesting!

[@mikedavino2400]

@@KentHewittpiano88 yeah I know. This guy is really pissing me off! HARMONIC MINOR MODES - Theory & Practice kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z3isi5KmZ7mahpo NewJazz Published on Nov 29, 2018 I'm going at it like an animal Kent. I'm subbed everywhere. I'm in a new trio and I have gigs coming up! I gotta stay relaxed and serene or I'm good for nothing. I love you Bro!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

The competition is getting rough. Stay cool, brother!

[@PIANOSTYLE100]

Working on all the triadic inversions in all keys. I wrote it out in maestro in first inversion. i ised maestro and by accident I was able to import a midi file of it with the note name next to the note. Pretty good for brginner. The best Kent

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Good work...what was the midi file that you imported?

[@PIANOSTYLE100]

@@KentHewittpiano88 The app is called Midi Sheet Music..There is a backstory to this . I did not import it. I have been increasingly aware that I needed to play fluently in all keys. I made up some personal piano exercises ..CGE B F# D# depending to the end of the piano. Was very successful. Then a week later tried from the third E C G D# B F#..just going down from C to B .totall failure. It was totally not working. I put the score together using Maestro and saved it as Descending Triads. I saved on my phone and exported as a midi file and PDF. I found it as a midi file on my Phone.. I had put it as as sending triplets at 120 BPS. in C.. It rearranged it to combinations of 16thand eights.. Sounded great. It also put it in five sharps. I transposed it to C. It did it and played it back in midi Format. I could hear what it sounded like.. Also it gives you many options. I chose putting the note Vale..say D#.. All my notes are as superscript above the note. I looked further it allows you to have it in color notes..you can even pick another color if I seeing it right. By using a screen recorder I was able to make a video out of it. it's one of my last videos I can send you the link. The best Pianostyle100.

[@SamuelPeckman]

Thank you for this very helpful video.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I appreciate your telling me.!

[@calnutt]

Thanks. I’m finally starting to get this! Enjoy your videos too! Fred

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks so much for telling me/

[@oriraykai3610]

When Kent plays, everything reduces to Spy vs. Spy...

[@williamnicols4419]

Thanks, Kent. I've always been an intuitive player...somehow finding the altered chords or the solo line, but now that I'm retired and "rediscovering" the piano, you've added method to my madness. Never had a formal teacher, but listened to great players and was fortunate to mentor with a few as a young man. I tend to find chromatic leads to the next chord and would appreciate if you could flesh out what's going on and why it works.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great comment, William. I'm glad to add method to the madness. Chromatic leads melodically or harmonically, or both? I will talk more about that, but I also have covered that in my videos on Tritone substitutes and also the vids on Improvisation. (more advanced) See my playlists: kzbin.info/door/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCwplaylists

[@dannuttle9005]

"Retired." What a beautiful word that is. [speaking very slowly] Reeeeetiiiiiiiirrrrrrrred.

[@casperkasparov302]

Cats and Music ! Yes Very Good ! The Best Thing About Being Home Today Is Listening To You, You Are Truly The Best! Spasibo To You Maestro ! (Spasibo is Thanks In Ukraine !) 😎

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I always appreciate your generous words, Casper!

[@casperkasparov302]

@@KentHewittpiano88 Spasiba Maestro ! My Mission Is To Make You Very Popular With My Friends In Ukraine. Maybe You Will Grace Us Someday ? You Are The Ultimate Cool Cat Jazz Man!

[@rachelsmename]

This was very helpful! Thank you!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for writing!

[@20alphabet]

You're the Bob Ross of improvisation sauce!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Good one, 20. Thanks, Bob's a cool guy!

[@marctino703]

Waiting for the next video explaining your voicing? I like these harmonies and the rhythmic placement.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Oh, that's another subject, but would it be part 4 or a new series?

[@marctino703]

@@KentHewittpiano88 I am waiting for it, thank you

[@bendex88]

Thanks Ken... This will keep me busy for a while. I, like William Nicols, have had method applied to my madness.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for telling me, Bill, and keep up the good work. !

[@cns7139]

Love Herbie! He looks much like two great black and white cats I've had in the past. So cute!! Thanks for the new videos, too. I'm practicing applying the Locrian... really fun to explore minor-flat-five as the' two' chord. By the way, your solo really takes off. You are one mean player!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Black and white cats are the most eccentric. Thanks for a great and astute comment....very helpful to me and encouraging....keep swinging!

[@mariogarces4571]

Guauuuu. Genial. Espectacular

[@willzang3000]

wow, just amazing again kent, you really are a finger poppin daddy-o. very cool

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks so much for the compliment, swing loose!

[@PIANOSTYLE100]

Excellent series. I would be interested in the minor modes..

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Those great pretty complex.

[@cherylrobinson-moore6820]

Thank You! Very intuitive.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I appreciate the comment!

[@marilynharris4118]

BRAVO, CoolCatKent!! ❤️🎹❤️🎹❤️ XO - M

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Always stay cool, Marilyn. Thanks for "checking in".

[@dkwvt13]

Damn, you mean I'm not some kind of a musical genius...!?!? What a great version of AL! I may borrow. 😎

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I'm sure you're more of a genius than I am...swing loose, Donald.

[@josephslotnick4516]

Quite helpful

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for telling me!

[@PIANOSTYLE100]

Oh yeah the idea was to read it off my phone. Total success with Midi Sheet Music app. Reading it out, allowed me to play it fluently and I can see the pattern clearly. in addition it is an excellent excercise in reading and hearing music. By writing music ..even simple music , eg Mary had a Little lamb, helps us to read confidently simple songs.

[@nealsandy9441]

Just loved this. Now I am so much more conscious of how modes are such an integral part of how music is structured. You are a fantastic musician and teacher. Thanks so much. I learned a tremendous amount. Your student Neal in Toronto sending you good wishes. Could you comment on some techniques for using the 1 6 2 5 degrees in popular tunes from the American Song Book?

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Hi Neal, Thanks for the comment. Please write to my email address, if you have a request. I may have done that on some previous video that I could point you to.

[@edlyndesouza1943]

I endorse Neal's comments. Listening to Kent is such a humbling experience and such a revelation. Thanks Kent.

[@maxbastards]

Great video as usual! Could you make a or point me in the direction of a video on how to add those rhythmic extra left hand and both hand chords?

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's covered in a number of my videos . You just have to watch more of them. Go to my Playlists here: kzbin.info/door/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCwplaylists?view_as=subscriber

[@bassmonk2920]

This is the secret that changed the way I play bass and understanding jazz charts

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for telling me .....go man!

[@rickrocketts183]

Your channel should be archived in the Smithsonian!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Maybe someday it will...I hope (just kidding!) THANKS!

[@IsaiahBaker]

Kent, I keep coming back! I appreciate the insight you give

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Insight is something we all should constantly seek.

[@erikhenchal2088]

Great job, but it's not clear why you would pick F Maj (D minor) over the traditional jazz arrangement in G minor.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Many people play this song in Em. I prefer Dm or Gm, either is good for most players.

[@josemariabusquegarcia9329]

Thanks a lot for this video. I have a question, is there any pattern that we can learn to start sounding more jazz when playing those scales? I mean some kind of structure of notes to play in one go, since i can play those scales but it really does not sound as jazzy. Cheers!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Please write to my email for more info.

[@Tabu11211]

Thanks again!

[@TonyClarkeThinks]

great quote from Schweitzer!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

How do I find these gems!?

[@LouisSerieusement]

Thank you so much !!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

You're welcome!

[@xxvsasixx]

where can I find this back track?

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Please write to my email!

[@donnyawa8870]

I am a saxophone player. I learned a lot from your videos. Keep posting my friend. Thank you very much.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

It's always a good idea to have piano knowledge whatever instrument you play. Thanks for the comment!

[@pianobar7801]

Hi Kent, hope you’re doing OK. Great video.👍

[@KentHewittpiano88]

All good thanks , bro!

[@Panazproduction]

Thank You sir. It is always so lovely to hear You playing! I really wanna buy a album You playing some standards, if you help me how? i am grateful for everything i learn during these 8-10 years i think! i know that i that You from all of us 80TN

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Many thanks for the great comment. I have a trio CD on CD Baby website. It's called "Time on my Hands" and it's all standards. You can buy it in mp3 version. (I've been doing KZbin tutorials since 2015)

[@hardroll]

The song’s in D minor and yes, it’s relative to F major but it’s still D minor. Jazz musicians want to submit music to their way of thinking when they should submit their way of thinking to music.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

opps. didn't you hear me?...., I already gave you permission to say it's in Dm.

[@scioncroft]

You’re the man! I love your soloing. Clear explanations too. Please don’t stop!

[@hardroll]

Kent Hewitt as if

[@anthonysilva5312]

Thanks hip cat! How about your take on a Bird Blues.....?

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Anthony, actually I have a video on a Bird blues. It's Now's the Time here:kzbin.info/www/bejne/aYPKpWyqfsmLeJY Also on Anthropology by Parker here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/faS5nX2Jj62hgLc Please check out my video on Bird's Donna Lee.: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qJfReIFjdrOcmLM Please leave comments, thanks. Swing loose!

[@drewroberts139]

You're the best Kent! Could you do a blues chord tutorial with Black Coffee?

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great blues flavored song...thanks!

[@davidreidenberg9941]

Kent. I’m curious as to why you chose “Autumn Leaves” because there doesn’t seem to be anything particularly modal about it. To me it’s simply a 2-5-1 progression for the first 3 bars, with a 2-5-1 minor progression in the last 4 bars prior to the bridge. (I normally play the rootless LH voicings and in the minor 2-5-1 I use the tritone sub for the 5) What am I missing?

[@KentHewittpiano88]

This is part 3....so if you didn't watch part 1 and 2 you may not get the point. I picked this song because you can improvise off of one scale if you choose to. I'm referring to an underlying scale in this song that is an aeolian mode (relative minor and relative major) and yet I could still choose a dorian mode or melodic minor scale for improvisation. Knowing the modes is helpful to understand improvisation in an intellectual way. Of course you don't need to do that, you can primrose by ear if you have that kind of talent.

[@davidreidenberg9941]

Kent Hewitt thanks. I got that part. However if I want to improvise off of the underlying major scale and make it sound Dorian, then don’t I have to change the chords to “Dorian “ chords? Btw I think I’ve figured out a novel approach to learning the modes. Since every mode consists of 5 whole steps and 2 half steps all you have to do is memorize where the half steps are for each mode!

[@amitgalkin1215]

Hey Kent, why is that necessary to know all the modes if you play the keys of F anyways? the keys of F and the ones of its mode are same

[@KentHewittpiano88]

This is a complex question to answer...I was hoping the video would do that. When you're playing the song "Maiden Voyage" is important to know that the scale is mixolydian and if you're playing the song "So What" the scale is Dorian. But this is academic....ultimately your ears are really all you need. I need a video to explain further, but believe me ...it's important! Please write to me.

[@pianotocomfortuplift8976]

Right on~

[@hamisharchibald740]

What did you do with the chords around 3:10?

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Right after 3:10 it looks like I was using the "locked hands" technique. I have videos on that subject . Check my playlists: kzbin.info/door/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCwplaylists

[@keithcowen5220]

Are you teaching in Maine in 2023?

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Looks that way...who knows?

[@p1anosteve]

Do you think it's a good idea to think in terms of the first note of the mode when improvising to locate yourself in the parent scale (F in this case). At the same time of course you need to relate this to chord so you've got two things to do at the same time(enough to confuse me!) Also could I ask you why you chose F as opposed G which I believe is the original key. I noticed you specifically change the original key in the songs you do.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Bill Evan's plays My Foolish Heart in A major. I like the sound of this song in F (Dm) or Bb (Gm). At jam sessions back in the day, it was usually played in those keys, and so it stuck. (In the New Real Book it's in Bb, and in the Colorado Book it's in Ab. The Real Book 1 it's in G) It's an easy enough song to learn in a few keys)

[@guitargod6997]

@@KentHewittpiano88 My guess is that Kent could play this song in any key. Because it is fundamentally about the relationship between the intervals. One key may be preferred because the fingering is easier in that key, or because one is supporting a vocalist. Though I am primarily a guitarist, I do play this song on keyboards. Choice of key depends on a few different factors, but at this level the musician can generally play a song in all keys. I play all my repertoire in any key requested or required.

[@genuinefreewilly5706]

I was playing along (nowhere as well) and I ended on the same chord . The scale looks like D dorian with a sharp 7th. I just call that sound an augment sound. If I play B locrian scale I need C# sharp to get that sound. I hear it in a lot of music especially a nice way to end. I noticed you using that scale while playing Sounds suspenseful and mysterious. I havent a clue what that mode is called?

[@KentHewittpiano88]

The minor/major 7th is used a lot to give more color and "exotic" sound to a minor 7th. Bill Evans uses that chord often. If you play a 7th chord built on the melodic minor scale, the 1st mode is that chord, so it's the Ionian mode. ie: AmMa7

[@genuinefreewilly5706]

Kent AmMa7 that is the sound. If I am building chords off the melodic minor, I run into it all the time. Exotic is a good term. I could rant on but you are very inspirational. I dont know wether I am a fan of jazz or bigger fan of solid improvisation skills. You are both and there is lots of great melodies to revisit

[@giannagiavelli5098]

backing track?

[@KentHewittpiano88]

"Band in a Box." Software download that gives you a bass player and drummer, and other combinations like guitar, horns, strings.... to back up your playing. It's fun and challenging because you really need to listen to the backing and stay focused on your time.