Stop running scales. Start making music.
Welcome to Music Savvy.
A proven ear-based jazz learning experience built to help you become a more creative, confident, and capable improvising musician.
Not sure where to begin? Dare to sample some things that seem interesting to you...
Upload Your Playing to the Loft
I'll give you a free and thorough evaluation of your playing. Let me show you how you can improve.
Submit Your PlayingVideo Lessons on Improvisation
Learn how to improve on something important to you that's lacking in your playing.
Explore Video LessonsInterviews of Great Players and Teachers
Gain a new perspective on music and life from these great players and educators.
Explore InterviewsPlay-Along Looped Tracks
Practice with these cool play-along tracks with step-by-step instruction, some light theory, and playing examples.
ExploreGroovz
Insight within the Learning Library
Fun to read practical guidance that gives you good answers to why you stumble when you solo.
Explore the Library“I was amazed by the playing breakthrough of one of my jazz students after giving her a Music Savvy exercise. Her improvisation was incredibly logical, connected, and full of space. It was one of those lessons where you could actually hear the learning happen. Music Savvy has become a regular part of my teaching and my own practice.”— Dave Henning, Jazz Piano Performer & Teacher
What Players Say...
"This completely changed the way I approach improvisation. I stopped memorizing scales and started playing from what I hear. Huge difference!"
"Michael explains jazz in a way no one else does. Every lesson unlocks something new in my playing."
"This is the best ear training for jazz improvisation I've ever come across. Period."
"You give me actionable protocols that have measurable outcomes and are always a bit outside my comfort zone. Too many of the alternatives feel like empty get rich quick schemes like '5 licks that will make you sound like Michael Brecker'!!"
The Savvy Series. Expand Your Jazz Knowledge and Playing Skills
The updated version of a comprehensive guide to mastering the alto trombone, focusing on its unique role and challenges in jazz performance.
Master Alto Trombone
The updated version of this essential ear-based guide for trombonists aiming to excel in jazz improvisation.
Elevate Your Trombone Skills
Develop your ability to hear and understand jazz, enabling you to play what you hear with confidence.
Train Your Ears
Master rhythmic creativity to enhance your improvisational skills and overall musicality.
Sharpen Your Rhythm
