Did you play the violin as a child? Or perhaps you played the saxophone or trumpet in the band? If you can play an instrument, why not give jazz a try? If you can produce sound and manage the fingering, we can guide you on how to participate in a jazz band, regardless of the type of instrument, by learning jazz theory.

People often think jazz improvisation is purely intuitive or a matter of talent, but just as there are formulas in mathematics, there are formulas in jazz as well. The formula for jazz is jazz theory.

Of course, it's not all about theory; feeling is also important. At our school, we guide each individual to expand their unique characteristics, ensure that their sensibilities are not restricted, and acquire jazz techniques while having fun.

Lesson content

In our jazz theory lessons, we focus on using chord names (Cm7, G7, AMaj7, etc.) to play songs and improvise. The songs range from jazz standards to "Fly Me To The Moon", "Autumn Leaves", and many others. If there's a song that the instructor selects or a song that you've always wanted to play, we'll dive right into it. We thoroughly teach about the 'magic of chords' which is used 100% of the time in jazz improvisation.

Once you've become slightly comfortable with basic 'chord names', we'll move on to learning about a slightly more advanced concept called 'chord scales'. Chord scales are an essential subject at Berklee College of Music, where the most beautifully resonating scales are matched to each chord, such as Cm7 or D7, in other words, harmonies. Do-re-mi-fa-so-la-ti-do... to put it simply, improvisation is composed of various keys of Do-re-mi. Once you become proficient in utilizing chord names and chord scales freely, you can enjoyably and easily play and improvise songs of all genres.

If you try to master improvisation on your own, you have to listen to records or CDs with your own ears and remember them thoroughly. Many senior jazz musicians have spent a great deal of time and effort on self-study. However, by mastering improvisation theory at Spoonful Music, you will be able to understand the way of jazz improvisation rationally. Improvisation based on theory, not self-styled, guarantees a high-quality, stable performance in any situation.

At Spoonful Music, we teach jazz theory based on the Berklee system that matches your level and individuality. We promise a definite level up, from beginners to professionals who are in a slump.

FAQ

Q1: Is any instrument acceptable?
Yes. As long as you have the basics of how to play yourinstrument, including how to produce sound and fingerings, you can learn the theory of improvisation for jazz performance.

Q2: At what level of instrument proficiency can I manage improvisation without problems?
In jazz performance, unlike playing classical pieces, you can enjoy playing at your own comfortable speed, so you shouldn't worry too much.

Q3: Can I learn jazz theory for composing?
Yes. Unlike classical composition, you'll mainly study how to construct songs and theories using chord names. You'll learn things like how to add correct or beautiful harmony to commonly used chord progressions and melodies.

Q4: Can I borrow an instrument during the lesson?
We have guitars, double bass, electric bass, and a simple drum set available, but please bring any other instruments you need.

Q5: Can anyone do improvisation?
Jazz improvisation mostly consists of scales, so put simply, anyone can enjoy or understand improvisation by learning various "do-re-mi-fa-so-la-ti-do" scales, the chord scale theory taught at Berklee College of Music.

Q6: Is this useful for music other than jazz?
Yes. As most genres of music have been influenced by jazz, studying jazz theory will effectively enhance your understanding and performance abilities across various genres. It will also enable you to arrange various songs.

Q7: How long is the lesson period?
There is no specific period set.

Q8: I want to improve quickly in a short period.
I believe there are people who want to master things quickly and in a short period. It is possible if you understand the use of chord scales, tensions, etc.

Combination course recommendation

The combination course is a course where you can take two subjects at the same time in one 60-minute lesson.
For example, jazz vocal and jazz piano courses can be divided into the first half and the second half of the lesson time and taken in one lesson at the same time. It can be said that this course is ideal for those who do not have a lot of time, or for those who want to experience as much musical education as possible in a short time.