A Step-By-Step Physical Approach to Simultaneous Jazz Piano Comping/Soloing
Theresa Chen · Jazz Education in Research and Practice · 2024
Abstract: The ability to comp and solo simultaneously is essential for every jazz pianist. This skill is considered the standardized performance practice in jazz improvisation that came from the style of piano masters such as Red Garland. Although this performing technique is commonly heard and widely taught, it can be challenging for beginners when they get used to the sounds of rootless voicings and coordinate between two hands playing different rhythms. Since jazz music resulted from the grooves and rhythms of African American music cultures, it is crucial for educators to teach students this technique by explaining how fingers interact with the keys. This article provides step-by-step approaches to learning simultaneous comping/soloing from rootless voicings to two-hand coordination at different levels. The examples of rootless voicings and exercises using the 12-bar blues form offer young players a more precise idea of the physical movements of piano playing.