Bill Evans, My Foolish Heart, Art of the Rootless Voicing, chord analysis

Bill Evans, My Foolish Heart, Chord and rootless voicings analysis. Exquisite use of the upper extensions in left hand voicings. From the 1961 recording Waltz For Debby. Song written by Victor Young. Lead sheet score is available as free download on my website. www.kenthewitt...

[@69kellygreen]

Thank you for posting this! SO gorgeous and interesting! Wish I had studied music theory instead of business management....

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+69kellygreen There's still time. I got a business degree from Boston U., worked in that career then left it to study and get a degree in music at UCONN. However there's not much money in the music business but it's a lot of fun and rewarding, if it choses you. Thanks for the comment!

[@richard9480]

Me too. Had the foolhardy idea to become a lawyer!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for sharing...you are compadre!

[@rik-keymusic160]

I got fired at a car company.... Started out on my 24 with piano and now stil living with my parents and studying jazz i'm now 29 and working my ass off to get accepted at the conservatory in a few years...

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Good luck with it, Richard, I'm sure you'll get there...and thanks for sharing!

[@keithcowen5220]

I’m so grateful you are posting on KZbin. I’m 74, retired registered nurse after graduating college at 50, and wanted a new hobby. At 71, the age I retired, started teaching myself chords and progressions. I did have piano lessons and bass lessons in high school and played with a dance band when I was a kid. After the Army, played a little bass with a piano player in Chicago, but wasn’t willing to put in the work. 50 years later now it seems I am. I am playing better now, self taught with chord and progression book and videos online and because of the time I put into it. I started watching your videos about 6 months ago and they make a huge difference. I played a two hour gig at a coffee house two weeks ago and had a great response from audience. I can play many tunes from Real books and use iReal pro as well. Thanks for the instructions I will purchase your book and hopefully will live long enough to get through it.

[@beverleyeldridge4594]

well done i am 77 learning piano for 4 years .

[@KentHewittpiano88]

One is never too old to learn something new. I hear from a lot of folks that are in their 60's and 70's ...a great time to enjoy learning jazz piano.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's great, Keith. Thanks for telling me your story and it does my good to know my tutorials have made a difference. Swing loose!

[@BernieHolland-w4l]

@@beverleyeldridge4594 Good for you Beverly - I am 71 and still learning to play the guitar after sixty years on my instrument - age is irrelevant here, what matters most is that you gain a deep satisfaction from your music and I wish you all the best.

[@philipbenhardb.velasco369]

Sir you are an inspiration. Do you any social media? Your story must touch others as well

[@Anddrew914]

How spoiled I am to have such great info right at my fingertips. You're a saint for putting these videos online for all to learn from. Thank you.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+Andrew Easterling Many thanks for another great comment and compliment that keeps me going!

[@richard9480]

He certainly is a saint. A wonderful and generous teacher.

[@dirkdrewes6303]

Andrew Easterling in

[@pianojazztustin5811]

Really great analysis; I've watched this a few time over the years I love Ken's transcription.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thank you so much!

[@macheson7593]

60 years after the original recording and still discovering the magic of Bill Evans. I think 60 years from now people will still be appreciating his contributions to jazz piano.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Absolutely...even more so. (is Bach still popular?)

[@vivfaydonahue687]

The loveliest rendition I have ever had the previlege to sing along with .. You are a Master, like the GOAT pianists, Bill Evens. Thank you!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Wow, thank you!

[@BernieHolland-w4l]

First of all, I have a feeling that Bill Evan's heart will be warmed in light of the delight that has been generated amongst so many who have watched this video - particularly those who, later on in life, have realised that they can gain much pleasure satisfaction and fulfilment through the sheer love of music. Bill often spoke in ways that showed great respect for the musical lay person, in fact he once said he would like to reclaim the naivete of those who have a profound appreciation of music, regardless of whether or not they are players. Bill attached equal importance to the capacities of those who listen and those who perform. In this sense, he was a true egalitarian and he harboured a deep regard for those who had presented him with opportunities to develop his art. Whilst his amazing legacy has proved his genius as a composer, interpreter, harmoniser and Improviser, it is his humane approach which brings a warm glow to all that he does, whether that is performing at the piano, or even just sitting down and discussing music and life with others who share his interest. Once I heard him say that he didn't regard himself as being gifted with any special talent and that he had only got where he was by hard work and assiduous application. I am sure that many may disagree with Bill's assessment of himself as not being possessed of any special talent by virtue of the fact that over many years of painstaking work he had developed his aural facilities to such a degree that he could develop the most encyclopaedic knowledge and understanding of the liberties one can take with chord voicings - furthermore that this was no mere theoretical construct but was something that is clearly evident in his practical mastery of his instrument. In this respect, his use of rootless cluster voicings could be attributed to the fact that he truly understood the function of the double bass in his trios, and of course with the likes of Scot LeFaro, Eddie Gomez, Chuck Israels and Marc Johnson he could, for the most part, free himself from such concerns and play in such a way that implied the bass notes of his extraordinary and audacious chord voicings, which is just one aspect of his playing that sets him apart from any other jazz pianist. It could also be said that this approach has influenced many guitarists although the possibilities of the piano transcend the limitations of the guitar. Finally, I feel that it is in the true spirit of Bill Evans' magnanimity that Mr Hewitt has offered us the rewards of his analysis and insight into Bill's beautiful interpretation of a tune that has touched the hearts of many. Thank you Bill and thank you Ken for all you have done for us. I am profoundly grateful.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Major thanks, to you Bernie, for sharing your thoughts and vision about Bill Evans, one of my greatest heroes. Your knowledge of the subject of Bill Evans is extraordinary. I got meet him a couple times, and we talked briefly. I hope you have seen my recent videos on Bill Evans: Stay in touch!; kzbin.info/www/bejne/iYmmfZuhpJ6Hm6M

[@vinkomiskovski1010]

Beautifully explained! One of the best jazz piano educators on this planet ( and the neighborhood)!! Thank you Kent!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great comment and compliment....thank you!

[@foxwagnon]

Great video. Us young jazz learners need people like you

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's great to know...thanks!

[@carlsanchious8192]

Such a beautiful song I was 17 years old when I bought the Waltz for Debby CD from Tower records in South Philly

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I was little younger than that when I bought my first Bill Evans record...and was thrilled!!

[@thomasdt100]

Wow. I have been in love with Bill Evans rendition of My Foolish Heart ever since I first heard it in the 60’s. Kudos to you sir for nailing the exact voicing of Evans’ interpretation so exactly. I am very impressed since I have been trying to do it by “EAR” for 50 years. Now I’m gonna have a blast learning the song the correct way thanks to you. Great job !!!!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

This was one of my favorite songs that Bill recorded, on the album by that title. I actually took this off of a video he made with his trio in I believe, England. It was a challenging project, I don't do an exact copy but I learned a lot about his voicings by doing it. Thanks for the comment.

[@thomasdt100]

Kent Hewitt Well it’s very close and we all love it !!!

[@jaked.8388]

Kent just loved your analysis of Bill Evans left hand chord movement ...what a master craftsman. If you can, I'd love to here more of these as learning from people like Bill can really open up one's understanding of the use of unusual harmony and technique. tks Jake

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Jake, please go to my Playlists and you'll find a category on Bill Evans. Click on VIEW FULL PLAYLIST for the list of 10 videos. kzbin.infoplaylists?view_as=subscriber

[@knudsandbknielsen7226]

I can't ever appreciate this enough!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks so much for telling me!

[@tomjones2348]

So beautiful. Thank you for showing us the inner workings of this tune.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for listening!

[@bradforddavis6497]

Great analysis of a signature tune Bill did so many times from his beginning to the end, though it did evolve .. thank you.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the comment!

[@Morelynn]

Thanks so much for this. There are lots of videos for the total beginner, explaining what a triad is, but not that many that take it up to the next level as this video did. Just what I've been looking for. Thanks again.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for telling me this helped with the next level. !

[@rubinromeo2083]

Thanks Kent. Very appreciated it...Great harmony and you did a great job transcribing these !!! Beautiful.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks so much!

[@THKtheGreat]

This lesson is also amazing!!! Thanks for every single lesson!!! Mr.Hewitt. Playing the jazz piano is so difficult. I mean playing the piano like jazzy. There are so many lessons to learn for playing the jazz. When I faced to many information to memorize for playing the jazz music. Sometimes I was so devastated.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+Victor V Thanks, Victor, for the comment! Practicing and repetitions is the key. You will be surprised at what you can achieve if you practice regularly...each step of your progress is a gratifying reward and can be very exhilarating. I continue to learn every day and I'm happy to pass on the knowledge.

[@THKtheGreat]

+Kent Hewitt Do you continue to learn every day? OMG...It's so difficult to playing the instrumental. However, The sound of piano is so beautiful. I can't stop playing the piano. Thank you for your advise.

[@rennedelorean3341]

Thank you!!! I can't even begin to describe how wonderful this was. I often wonder, what is going on in Mr Evans mind, where he first hears this, and then transfers it to his hands/ fingers finally to the keys, where we get to enjoy this wonderful combination of chord changes . . . tremendous, I guess less is more . . .

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Less is often more. Bill Evan's was a genius who heard music in ways no one else had heard before. What an amazing gift. And sadly to die too young.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

For the 2 thumbs down, was it the wall color or the drapes?

[@richard9480]

Whoever gave you two thumbs down has absolutely no taste, Kent. I thinking your curtains and interior colour schemes are wonderful. As is this video tutorial.

[@Ghtthomps]

Kent Hewitt two thumbs down probably. can't read or play a piano.

[@owenhu9465]

there is always a pathetic minority of the people on KZbin who gets off from giving people thumbs down. Keep up the great work!

[@DocSardo]

@@owenhu9465 If you go to any of the Bill Evans studio-recorded or live videos available on youtube there are also people who have given thumbs down. Truly boggles the mind.

[@djabroni_brochacho4644]

They probably fat-thumbed their phone screen

[@gtrrobster]

Very cool! Thanks for your efforts. I am a guitarist of 40 years, but hearing such a thorough analysis of such wonderful and complicated music in pianistic terms really takes it to another level.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

That's a cool comment. Many thanks and wishing you all the best in your music studies.

[@FrankDeruyck]

Kent you show us what a genious Bill was, may he delight the Gods with his music in heaven....

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thank you, Frank, that's a very great compliment....I can't imagine a world without Bill Evans, and yet he came and went at quite a young age.... as all those do who abuse their health. Nevertheless ...he was a great gift to me and so many others...now and until eternity.

[@FrankDeruyck]

Kent Hewitt Thanks Kent, I myself also struggled a few years with alcohol (many years ago). I think musicians often have this trouble: a sensative mind in a very hard world, problems with violence, love-affairs, politics, loneliness.... I was lucky to have an understanding wife who always stood with me. And music to comfort me.

[@BernieHolland-w4l]

@@FrankDeruyck Bless your wife - my wife stood by me too, during good times and tough times - even though she passed two years ago, her spirit is still flying about here - especially when I am playing anything by Bill Evans !

[@JoureXef]

Amazing lesson! I used to mindlessly read music and now I finally understood what I'm playing. Can't thank you enough for this!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+Jose Salvatore Your writing to me is thank you enough. I'm happy to pass on the knowledge and I'm also learning a lot in the process. Thanks!

[@IsaiahBaker]

I've got to say how much I enjoy the pacing of your videos. not too slow, not too fast.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great comment...very helpful to me...thaks!

[@bernardallen525]

Thank you it's such a privilege to have you explain the chord changes and how Bill Evans plays. You are an exceptional tutor a true inspiration. I wish you well. I am learning so much, your lessons are rich, deep and consistently full. A great help in learning to play jazz. Best wishes Bernard.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+Bernard Allen I think this the 6th response to your comments that I've written today, so you, sir , are an Elite! All my best wishes to you, Bernard, and PLEASE ,,,,keep commenting!

[@phyllishesford428]

WOW that was spectacular! The song and the chords are truly beautiful and you played it with such passion and tenderness..I'm in awe of everything you do.....

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Your comments are always the best, Phyllis!

[@zack6D]

Hi Kent- greetings from Frisco, NC. Just discovered this tuto. of yours, which has made my summer! Serious appreciation and many thanks.

[@dbarnat72]

I'm in awe. I love Bill Evans. Thank you very much for showing the technical construction of this beautiful tune.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+dbarnat72 Thanks so much for the comment!...please check out my other Bill Evans tutorials (3 more).

[@patrickcollins9091]

Amazing job, one of my favorite interpretations of Bill Evans highlighting his genius for color and harmony, you're doing good works, thank you !

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I appreciate the affirmation!

[@christyherron_]

This is just fantastic. Incredibly helpful, and also played very beautifully Kent. Much appreciated, thanks

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thank you so much!

[@user-ff1ez5sy5h]

Tremendously helpful video. How dude can play this intricately arranged piece & give realtime analysis is impressive asf. Modern day composers of all genres wud greatly benefit from listening to evans & applying even jus a bit of his chordal ideas. It wud enrich their sound & help them break free of predictable & clichéd harmonies. Much thx for this.

[@famousatmidnight15]

You could never film Bill Evans with the overhead camera because he’d be hunched over the keys making sweet love to the piano

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Yes, that was his trademark, and I remember the first time I saw him live in 1964 at the Village Vanguard.

[@richard9480]

Just watched this again. The analysis is terrific.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great comment and compliment...I'll take that to me heart...thanks!

[@keldencowan]

As a bass player trying to understand Scott's parts in context with Bill's arrangements and voicings, your videos are a godsend. I can't thank you enough!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+Kelden Cowan I believe there's a website where I could hear them rehearsing the song. I heard it quite a while ago. Thanks for the awesome comment!

[@lewismartiniello9441]

I too feel pampered & lucky to have found the Hewitt tutorials, esp. this gripping Evans rootless chord demo. Thanks Kent once again.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+Lewis Martiniello I'm not usually too good at pampering, but it does my foolish heart good to hear you say that to me. Maybe we get better at certain things, as we age....let's hope so. Thanks Lewis!

[@jimandangiegeorge2392]

What an incredible lesson! Thank you for running it again. Again, I'll be months learning this tune, but what an education in jazz harmony I'm getting while doing it!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the compliments, affirmation and encouragement!

[@grandemusic5941]

I just lost one of my Keyboard idols in Keith Emerson....but now I have a new one. Thanks for all you share.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+Grande Music Are you referring to Bill Evans? You're just discovering him? Thanks for the comment!

[@gabrielparks9399]

Kent, you have no idea how great these videos are. Being able to learn Bill Evan's chords and play a bit of his gorgeous music is amazing. Super helpful videos. Thank You!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks, Gabriel...you just made my day!

[@rafaolivpereira]

thank u so much for that kent! i got no words to describe my grateful

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Just writing and telling me is enough. Thanks for your encouragement.

[@milounsined1456]

Thank you so much for this tutorial. I'm a bass player trying to improve and enjoy the piano. This is great and fun too learn ! You are a great teacher !

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the affirmation and I wish all the best in your musical progress.

[@qz3bmz]

Kent: This video is like a dream come true. Not only Bill's interpretation of this song, but how you perform as well as explain the voicings of the chords and the transitions. Very inspiring indeed. Now to see if I can interpret this piece and your explanations for guitar. Thanks very much for posting a masterpiece.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Heartfelt thanks for a great comment. I am grateful that my videos are helpful to you as a guitarist as well as to pianists and other instrumentalists.

[@drfortheorlingas]

do you know i have watched this video over 20 times. you know i watched the live performance of this by the Bill Evans trio on youtube and i thought to myself what a lovely piece. I never imagined that i myself would be actually able to learn and play this. i practice three times a day and im halfway thru learning this piece. Thanks for the clear explanation

[@KentHewittpiano88]

You honor me, sir...keep up the good work and thanks for writing!

[@lucianphipps5430]

2nd viewing already! I know you did this 6 years ago Kent but just like to say it's great the way that you have broken down the arrangement of this tune. I used to be reluctant to be overly analytical but it pays off big time to understand what's going on in a piece and learn from it. This song has amazing harmony and the arrangement is wonderful. Thanks again.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the comment and affirmation!

[@VassilisArt]

Thank you Mr Hewitt. This music is a blessing

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+VassilisArt Thank YOU ....your comment is appreciated very much!

[@charlesbarry6730]

I am a pianist with some classical training. My jazz knowledge came through reading books. I am virtually a self-taught jazz pianist. I am trying to gain as much knowledge as possible Thanks for the explanation. Hope that you post more videos.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I have about 115 videos in 1 and 1/2 years. So I'm inspired to hear your story. I want to encourage you to learn to play jazz. Here is my list: kzbin.info/door/dmjw5sm9Kn83TB_rA_QBCwplaylists

[@valsopuseight]

I love Bill Evans music and this album has a special place in my heart.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Same here..esp. this tune by Victor Young...it's the 1st cut on the Waltz For Debby recording. Thanks!

[@dbarnat72]

Thanks much for sharing your great knowledge of piano and for focusing on this beautiful standard piece. At 54 I am just now learning Piano and this is the 2nd tune I am learning. I've loved it for so many years and now to be able to play it makes me feel wonderful. And in the words of Bill Evans, you first have to play for yourself [what you love] and then your true feeling can come out. At my early level, I'll need to practice a tune a couple hundred times to get it where it needs to be. So you really must love the music you're playing or otherwise it would seem to be a chore. I'll never grow tired of this tune. Thanks again.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the great comment, and you are exactly right...you have to love the song and the process. You have to be inspired to practice and then you will reap the rewards. Bill Evan's (being a genius) worked out all his arrangements methodically and intellectually, and then put that aside to play with great emotion and nuance.

[@ronfrey5327]

Amazing Kent greatness from you.

[@danmurphy3805]

Great Explanation! Even helped me out as a guitar player! Thank you!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Glad it helped!

[@Chipshotz]

Thanks Kent, this is one of my favorite Bill Evans pieces. So sad losing Scott LaFaro so young, it effected Bill greatly.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Yes...I lived through it first hearing Bill in 1962 at the Vanguard, w/ Gary Peacock.

[@charlesbarry6730]

I am a pianist with some classical training. My jazz knowledge came through reading books. I am virtually a self-taught jazz pianist. I am trying to gain as much knowledge as possible Thanks for the explanation.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thank you. Please contact me at [e-mail] for info an my book.

[@junglesax]

Kent this is absolutely superb and clearly i am not alone in this opinion. Thank you so much.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks so much!!...that's one of my early offerings...but also one of my favorites, because I learned so much about Bill Evans by doing it. Happy 2018!

[@pianonight]

Nicely done, thanks for putting this out there,

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@barryjwalker]

This is an awesome tutorial. With a little patience, I think I can learn this. Thanks!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+Barry Walker Hi Barry, Thanks for the comment. After you work it out you might want to try out the technique on another song. Please subscribe. All the best!

[@wojtekstankowski-pianojazz721]

I learned something from you again, not the first time - thank you.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for telling me...keeps me going.

[@ouriel]

I love how you retained to play the basses in certain passages. The hand flew there but you stopped it

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I'm glad you noticed and pointed that out. Cheers!

[@tsdouglas09]

This page is amazing

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thank youi!

[@tiffsaver]

Nice tutorial, Kent!! Very well explained and informative.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@tiffsaver]

@@KentHewittpiano88 I have a story I'd like to share with you. Many years ago, I had a friend who was a classical piano player. He knew nothing about jazz, so I gave him a dozen my favorite albums to listen to, and their was only one that he thought, "was head and shoulders above all the rest." That man was Bill Evans. My friend, who could read even the most difficult music in his sleep, was incapable of any kind of improvisation, so he paid a music transposer two grand to write out, note for note, "Waltz For Debbie," which my old friend loved to play in between Chopin and Mozart, until the day he died. He would have loved your video:)

[@mpoloria1]

dear Kent many thanks for this wonderful tutorial you are amazing piano player and excellent teacher. I have admired Bill for his music and he is a big inspiration for me. I hope you can post more of Bills music. God bless you.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+mpoloria1 Thanks for your comment. Please check my other videos...I have 4 different ones on Bill Evans arrangements or techniques.

[@spensert4933]

Glad you picked this song I think it has amazing harmonies that never stop coming. Amazing how such magic can come from 4 or 5 notes. Maybe my favorite thing of his harmonically for me. Amazing how you figured it out to a non player like me it is like an amazing blur. Who knew such beauty could be produced in the universe if not for bill and some of his impressionist parents.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the comment and compliment. I can't imagine a world without Bill Evans.

[@BernieHolland-w4l]

@@KentHewittpiano88 I can't imagine a universe without Bill !

[@albertolorusso]

Yet another fantastic tutorial!! All your tutorials (including YOURSELF!) should be put under the UNESCO!!! I love the patience you take to explain in details, the accuracy of your explanations and also your amazing ability to convey what goes on in the author's mind while he composes the piece, is a mix of piano technique, tips, thoughts and music history altogether!!! If you have time I would love to see a little video where you spell out the scales to improvise on this wonderful chords!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Wonderful comment and compliment! One of the best...it keeps me going and I am very grateful for it. The process of doing these videos and the feedback helps me to learn.

[@baribarium]

Tanks for your generosity.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Much appreciated!

[@cerval41]

Thank you for your wonderful interpretation!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Rolf Westerberg Thanks so much for you compliment. Please subscribe and check out another Bill Evans' analysis here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d6ualWOmlJV0jrN9 also have a Keith Jarrett rootless voicing analysis.

[@ronfrey6639]

amazing work ill be watching this over and over mind blowing thank you.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks, Ron. Check out the Bill Evan's version here...this was my inspiration: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l2Ovd4mNd9Kin9k

[@ronc.8964]

Great break down, Kent

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks so much!

[@jean-mariefournier2003]

Thank you very much for this amazing post: very clear and interesting. Your are a very generous teacher. Thank you again for shearing your knowledge. (and your piano has an extraordinary sound!)

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+Jean-Marie Fournier Thank YOU! I appreciate all your comments. It is affirming that I'm doing something that I enjoy and it is worthwhile and helpful to others. I only use real acoustic pianos and that one is my alternate, a '74 Yamaha upright and my other piano, which is on most of my videos, is a 1905 Mason and Hamlin grand. We waited a long time.

[@jean-mariefournier2003]

+Kent Hewitt I just found today an ad concerning the sale of a Mason and Hamlin in Paris (model A, 1905 too). I didn't see it yet. It could be a great opportunity !!! These pianos are very rare in France. I noticed that you use different voicings to play the turnaround (III, VI, V I), different from what is written on the lead sheet score. May I ask you for an analysis of them?

[@christophernorman8127]

Thank you Kent

[@KentHewittpiano88]

All my pleasure!

[@grahamlyons8522]

I enjoyed that. It has made me more alive, when arranging, to using semitone movements in the inner parts.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

If I could only understand one quarter of what Bill Evans could play...it's always amazing to me to hear that level of genius.

[@charlesbarry6730]

Very good explanation of Bill Evans piano voicings.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I'm glad you liked it...thanks!

[@lucianphipps5430]

Thanks Kent.. informative and inspiring!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Very welcome

[@carlpowell0]

wonderfully beautiful

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks again!

[@sewind6613]

Fabulous video, sir. Thank you so much for your time and for sharing your knowledge.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+s ewind Thanks for taking the time to watch and send me a comment. Please check out more of my videos and let me know what you like.

[@lesmorton7662]

Beautifully played, explained and taught Kent. Thanks !

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Les, I appreciate the comment and compliment!

[@multafija]

Amazing, Mr. Hewitt,, we have here a masterclass of how not to play root notes in just one single song. I wish I could figured it out better and not get stuck as I do. I guess I gotta be patient, Thanks for this song interpretation.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks for the comment...this is not an easy assignment...I figured this stuff out years ago by listening to records...there were no teachers or KZbin...so expect it to take some time. Rewards for work are many.

[@anthonykane201]

Great videos! Not to look a gift horse in the mouth, but I find it very helpful when you have the notes/chords pictured above! On some you do, on others you don't. Anyway, thank you for posting all this!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

On my newer videos made this year I have the multiscreen look. Thanks for the comment!

[@austincovey5663]

This was absolutely phenomenal! Kent, I'm very grateful for your work. I found your channel about a year ago when I was first starting out on jazz piano and you were useful then, but this video is damn sure useful now in my stage of the musical journey. Swing loose brother!

[@pjcerto1074]

Thanks much for this one, Kent (better late than never!). What a great exposition of Bill's playing. You piano guys have ALL the cool chords. I'm a long-time guitarist who wishes he had played piano instead. It always amounts to some sort of compromise between two notes (with both being essential!) when trying to play some of these great piano voicings on guitar. Incidentally, l tune my guitar down a half step and l play the tune in Bb and you do it in A, so our instruments sound the same pitches bit you are naming the chords a half step lower than what I'm playing on the guitar . . . Many times I was either going to throw myself or my guitar out the window. Btw - really dug that tritone sub C7th/9 chord! I have to play it up high on the neck with an open string but, cool! I never would have thought of it either. Thank you Bill and thank you Kent!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks, PJ, for the comment. But you realize that all of us pianists envy you guitar players for the beautiful sound you get and particularly the rhythm and groove that you can play.

[@BernieHolland-w4l]

Dear PJ - I have been playing guitar for 60 years and I completely agree with you - I too wished I had chosen the piano, but the guitar chose me instead - like yourself I play this in Bb and I have transcribed the version on the CD "Compact Jazz" (Bill Evans, Eddie Gomez Jack de Johnette, Jim Hall and amazing string arrangements by Claus Ogerman) which actually requires less compromise than I thought - however, these minor second and major second intervals require the development of a stretch for the fretting hand. This 'rootless' concept is great for guitarists as, if you have a decent bass player willing to spend time with you, you can get a lot of mileage here. I did my transcription by importing an audio (aiff) file of the track into an advanced music production application called Cubase and then working through it, bar by bar, writing down exactly what Bill was playing and then making the best approximation as possible - and through doing this I have now discovered some really crazy chord voicings which sound so cool - my favourite guitarist is Tal Farlow, and I have a whole book of stuff I transcribed from his recordings. I think Bill Evans and Tal Farlow are unique in that they achieved the most audacious and exploratory chord voicings which often defy the very rules of harmony - please promise me that you will never throw yourself or your guitar out of the window - you can, by all means, throw your TV set out the window, as long as there's no one on the sidewalk below ! Stay cool, and may the 4ths be with you !

[@charlesbarry6730]

I love those piano voicings. One of my greatest wishes is to play piano like that.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Humble thanks for your great compliment! Can't imagine a world without Bill Evans.

[@richard9480]

Brilliant. Thank you, Kent.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Appreciated!

[@Reapwhatsown]

Made my day man, nice breakdown. Love how you dealt with this, thank you.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Much appreciated...please keep watching!

[@3rd_well]

Hey Kent, I cannot even begin to explain how helpful your videos have been, specifically this one in particular. I've looked all over the internet for tutorials or lessons on bill evans pieces and haven't been able to find any that are in as much details as yours are and I thank you for that! As a huge bill evans fan and somebody who really wants to learn and understand more I was wondering if you wouldn't mind trying to upload some more Bill Evans lessons -- It would mean the world to me and I'm sure a lot of other people too! anyhow thanks again Kent, Love the work! ps. A lesson on Ellingtons "In a sentimental mood" would be fantastic too!

[@RRTheN00bPwner]

There is a Bill Evans Masterclass by Dave Frank (here on youtube) I can very much recommend. It's an hour long and focuses on Bill's solo version of "A Time For Love". Go to Dave Frank's website and get the handout .pdf for the lesson too to get the most (not least the transcription of the tune with some notes and pointers) if you haven't already. And yes, I second that what you said. Everybody digs Bill Evans and I too wish there was more, especially by Kent who really does an amazing job with his videos here. Rene

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+Maryann Fasnacht Thanks so much! That's very good feedback. I probably won't get to another Bill Evans video for awhile but you might want to check out the Bill Evans masterclass by Dave Frank mentioned on the comment below. Also there are numerous transcriptions of his solos, etc.available by music publishers. Did you download the score for this video on my website? I hope you gave me a thumbs up...it keeps me going!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+Maryann Fasnacht Wow, thanks! This is really gratifying to have this kind of affirming feedback. These videos are not easy to do, and of course it involves the total scope of my knowledge and study, but it's very rewarding when someone like you gives me such a positive response. Please check out all my videos and give a thumbs up to ones you like. I can't say that I can do more on Bill Evans but if you want to study more there are numerous transcription books available of his arrangements and solos. Of course I will give some thought to your requests. Thanks so much and please keep listening.

[@HankusMaximus]

I can't thank you enough for this lesson

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+Henry Huan I appreciate the comment. Please subscribe and give me a thumbs up...thanks!

[@patrickgribben2781]

Thanks so much for that. Fantastic analysis perfectly explained. Regards

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I appreciate the affirmation...keeps me going!

[@fattmusiek5452]

amazing take

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks so much!

[@fattmusiek5452]

@@KentHewittpiano88 no, thank you! My KZbin homepage in my PC is this video- every time it opens. It's wonderful, and I'm not changing it/that'd be foolish.

[@mehmetcemtuncer]

Beautiful work. Thank you!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thank you so much. Cam!

[@DanieleBozzolan]

Thank you kent Spieghi benissimo e solo in un paio di sere ho potuto suonarlo

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thank you!

[@kevinwingfield8419]

This video is wonderful, though way ahead of my ability, but i have hopes. Thanks for all your up-loads, please keep them coming! best kevin

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Check here for the easier ones...there's a lot of categories to choose from my channel page. kzbin.info/aero/PLFuMibnl_h5aTaUnQpBtsc6p1ZsLsxagq

[@t.s.5668]

Awesome thanks, learned some cool stuff from this

[@KentHewittpiano88]

So glad to hear...thanks!

[@knudsandbknielsen7226]

I LOVE this!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks so much for telling me!

[@kwixotic]

Though I've made a comment below, I still wish to express my gratitude for your providing the Rootless Voicing version on your site. I had never acquired anywhere near this degree of sophistication in voicing when playing it only in Bb but I can't exactly blame the key signature for that! It was rather that even with various jazz teachers, I never wanted to progress further than I did but when I see an arrangement like yours, I get re-inspired to give it another try.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+kwixotic Thanks so much! I really appreciate your telling me that.....because it makes my efforts with these tutorial worthwhile. Good luck with all that you do!

[@BernieHolland-w4l]

@@KentHewittpiano88 Look at all these people you have made so happy Ken ! What Joy !

[@JamieRossUK]

That Bb at 2:03 sent a shiver down my spine. Such a gorgeous tune.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+Jamie Ross Jamie, I have it (2:03) as a Dmaj9. Are you transposing it to the Key of F? Anyway, it doesn't matter either way, the shiver still happened. Be sure to thank Victor Young, the composer. Many thanks, Kent

[@JamieRossUK]

Haha! I meant the right hand grace note rather than the chord :)

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+Jamie Ross Okay, right...the grace note. You might enjoy another similar video I did on a Keith Jarrett interpretation, here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hoDcm51paMqnh7c

[@KentHewittpiano88]

+Jamie Ross Jamie, we are "simpatico". That's how I felt It. Are you still listening?

[@thomasarneson4511]

KZbin is the best thing since the invention of the phonograph. Not only do you get these great instruction videos, you can also hear the original recordings of so many great players going back to Parker, Lester Young, Fats Waller. And learn how to fix your washing machine too.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

I agree...it is amazing for both listener and musician or participant! Swing loose!

[@Curriusdk]

Using it for my learning of this wonderful tune

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Jørgen Weis Thanks so much for your comment. I'm glad it is helpful. It is a wonderful tune by Victor Young. I had the fortune of playing for his niece when they bequeathed her father's Steinway piano to Hartt School of Music in Hartford. Please subscribe to my channel and check out my videos!

[@ronfrey5327]

Love Bill Evans better yet moreso love seeing and hearing it played from above the full breakdown teaching at its best .. Need better understanding of tritone meaning going to look.

[@muledogrecords]

Thank you! This is what I was looking for.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Glad it was helpful!

[@polkmusic]

One of my favorite songs. His chord voicings are so tasty. How I wish I could play like this. Thanks for posting.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Please download the score...practice... and I'm sure you will be gratified!

[@BRICKSQUIRT]

10/10.. ty for uploading these

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Great!.....thank you!

[@ChemicalEasesDaPain]

this is the best tutorial and interpretation of bill evans' my foolish heart i have ever seen great teacher great tutorial thumbs up and subscribed :) thank you for the lesson and of coz for the sheet from ur website !!

[@KentHewittpiano88]

ChemicalEasesDaPain Thanks for the nice comment and for subscribing and thumbs up! Please check out my other videos including newest on Bill Evans chord analysis. All feedback much appreciated.

[@johnnymisbegotten]

Hi Kent, thanks for the tutorial and sheet music arrangement of this Bill Evans classic. I think I have the Bill Evans hunched-over-the keyboard posture down but still have to work on his timing and touch a bit.

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Thanks, John. When I first heard Bill Evans live in '62 at the Jazz Vanguard in NYC I though his hunched posture was his personal way of being totally focused on his music, in such a way that it lifted it to the level of a profound universal expression...something that I have ever heard any pianist do prior or since.

[@soundsirkus]

beautiful ... thanks for breaking it down

[@KentHewittpiano88]

Glad you enjoyed it...thanks!