The PIANO INSPIRATION SERIES is my platform for sharing the knowledge I’ve learned during 40 years of playing piano, keys and synth. We cover a variety of topics such as theory and technique, song breakdowns and genres such as pop, blues, boogie, jazz and gospel. The goal is to give you new creative ideas, broaden your repertoire and above all bring a lot of enjoyment and satisfaction to your playing.
Each video is a self-contained standalone topic. The lessons in my courses do not have to be viewed in any particular order and are suitable for both beginner and intermediate students with some tips included for more advanced players.
In SEASON 1 we will explore the following topics in depth.
BLUEBERRY HILL TRIPLET GROOVE
Let's enjoy the sound and feel of the triplet groove using one of the defining songs to use this rhythm, Blueberry Hill made famous by Fats Domino which was a huge hit in the 1950s. This is a must-know groove for all aspiring piano players, as the rhythm is used in many rock'n'roll and piano blues tunes.
BACK IN THE HIGH LIFE AGAIN SUS2 VOICING
We'll use the song "Back In The High Life Again" by Steve Winwood to demonstrate a very simple, beautiful and effective sus2 chord voicing in the context of a wonderful and useful chord progression.
MUST KNOW ELTON JOHN LICK
Here's a "1 to the 4" lick commonly used by Elton John, but dating back to gospel, spiritual and classical music. This is a very common cadence and an essential riff for your piano repertoire!
In SEASON 2 we will cover the following subjects.
ALL FOUR TRIADS EXPLORED
So you think you know what a triad really is, and what all the four triads are? Let's find out in this beginner music and piano theory lesson. I'll provide plenty of musical examples of how the 4 triads are used in popular music.
BASIC SHUFFLE PATTERN
Here is a very important lesson where I teach you the basic shuffle pattern. We'll explain the timing, the groove, chords and what to do with the left and right hands. This pattern is the foundation for blues, rock'n'roll and pop and is a must-know for every piano player. It's great for building up finger strength and dexterity and developing hand coordination and independence. Not only that but it's relatively easy, hugely satisfying and fun to play, it sounds very impressive and people will love hearing you perform it!
THE 12 BAR BLUES
We continue our exploration of the shuffle pattern by going over the structure of the 12 bar blues. We'll explain and demonstrate some of the common variations that you need to know. This is the chord progression most commonly played at jam sessions or when a group of musicians get together for the first time. In other words, knowing the 12 bar blues inside-out is a vital skill.
METRONOME FUN
After watching this lesson you will never use that boring and annoying "4 beats to the bar" metronome setting again! Your metronome is an important tool to train your timing, work on your groove and train you not to speed up or slow down during a performance. I'll show you some interesting, creative and fun ways to use your metronome!
