How to improvise jazz better

How to improvise jazz better

What is jazz improvisation? Let’s first define what I mean by jazz improvisation. Jazz improvisation is a spontaneous conversation, but instead of words, we use notes. Look at two possible ways to go about playing jazz. First, there’s the planned approach – it’s like having a blueprint. You’ve got scales,…

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How to improvise jazz better
What is jazz improvisation? Let’s first define what I mean by jazz improvisation. Jazz improvisation is a spontaneous conversation, but instead of...
Trumpet player in field
Why is jazz taking a back seat to band in school?
As I frequently do, I was searching yesterday for high school jazz band directors with whom I can share some of the jazz educational resources I produce....
Pocket Jazz by Michael Lake
For prior subscribers to Pocket Jazz
As a free subscriber of Pocket Jazz, I want to let you know about some changes in the course and in how it can now be accessed. I recently moved the course...
Improvisation Savvy background
For previous subscribers of the Improvisation Savvy course
I recently completed the migration of improvisation Savvy from a platform called Kartra to MusicSavvy.com. This means that your previous login to Improvisation...
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A conversation about jazz with an Artificial Intelligence
As artificial intelligence is creeping into so many applications these days, I thought I’d share what it “thinks” about jazz and improvisation....
grand-piano-zombie
The illusion of ego-less jazz
I was recently party to a heated email conversation between two very famous jazz teachers/players who hold polar opposite views on how one becomes proficient...
Get the Gist
Quick and easy jazz improvisation?
A marketing email hit my inbox last Thursday. It was promising the benefits of their special way of  memorizing and practicing licks, that once cobbled together...
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Michael Lake

Trombonist, author, composer, marketer

Courses and books

Pocket Jazz

The Pocket Jazz course is a completely redesigned series of online videos of no more than three-minutes each. Most of the lessons also contain short excerpts of tips and wisdom from masters like Ron Carter, Randy Brecker, Dave Liebman, Richie Beirach, Toshiko Akiyoshi, and many more.

Teaching & Learning Jazz

From this book, Richie Beirach and Mike provide great stories of jazz wisdom, a reflection on university jazz education including how to choose a school, an analysis of the Hollywood view of jazz education, a look at the psychology of education, and many other previously unexplored essential topics for both teachers and students.

Available in soft cover and digital editions.

Trombone Improvisation Savvy

Trombone demands different physical abilities from other instruments, but certain skills are universal such as connecting your instrument to your musical mind. Learn from exercises and audio files specifically focused on trombone that will help you improvise much better.