The outline used as the basis of most of improvisations follows a specific musical form known as "theme and variations." This is appropriate for a vocal art such as the blues wherein the vocalist repeats a basic chantlike melody many times, using a new set of words for each repetition. In instrumental music such as solo blues piano, lacking a text to provide new impetus from chorus to chorus, it is up to the pianist to create something captivating enough to maintain interest. To this end the blues pianist generally develops a collection of techniques which are featured one by one during each song. The secret of blues and jazz piano improvisation is that a performer acquires a body of right hand techniques which are available to be employed for each and every piece performed, with the left hand providing changes in bass patterns, tempos and keys from song to song. Since the rule is, a change of bass pattern equals a change in style, it is fascinating to observe how completely fresh a particular tune will sound when the left hand introduces new bass patterns from piece to piece while the right hand retains the same music. This impression of freshness is especially enhanced when each piece is, played in a new key at a different tempo. To summarize, beca se the right hand techniques remain constant and since a great number of blues songs have their origins in just a handful of prototypical blues songs (1) it could almost be said that the blues artist knows only one blues piece (so to speak) which is played at fast, medium and slow tempos, in various keys over many kinds of bass patterns.

(Piano Instruction). If you are a pianist who has already developed some ability on your instrument, and have an interest in learning about blues and boogie woogie, this book is tailor-made for you. Jazz and swing are also discussed. You'll focus on many aspects of these styles, proceeding slowly at first, then progressing more quickly after the fundamentals have been introduced. Most of the songs and arrangements are at the intermediate level. The online audio features demo tracks, as well as stylistic backing tracks with bass and drums only so you can play along as the soloist. Topics covered include: 12-bar blues * left-hand bass patterns * right-hand licks * turnarounds & endings * swing & dotted rhythms * improvisation * and much more.

(Guitar Educational). Boogie woogie music is one of the greatest influences on the blues, swing jazz and rock 'n' roll. The style is usually identified more with the piano than the guitar; however, boogie woogie actually seems to have originated with guitar players during the latter half of the 19th century in the rough "barrel houses" of the turpentine and lumber camps of the American South. Now with this book and video pack, trace the history of boogie woogie guitar with blues historian Dave Rubin and learn how to play the essential patterns that influenced generations of musicians. Features video lessons with demonstrations of every music example in the book!

Boogie-woogie is an intoxicating music style that touches the heart and uplifts the spirit of players and listeners alike. Combining boogie-woogie, blues, rock, and rock 'n' roll elements into an enticing mix, boogie & blues piano offers pianists the freedom to play unaccompanied and to present a repertoire that is based on their own particular strengths. The rules of improvisation and how to jam along with other musicians are much easier to learn than in complex jazz music. Boogie-woogie is also a masculine domain and female pianists are underrepresented. While the large hands and strong male physique associated with greater power and endurance are a great advantage, women and girls can now take heart and are perfectly able to groove and boogie with the best of players by adjusting the notes and licks to a smaller hand with a lighter touch. German ULRIKE GAATE is one of the few female boogie & blues piano players in Europe, and New Zealander JAN PRESTON is known as the 'Queen of Boogie Piano' in Australia, where she now lives. The authors met from across the world through their shared love of the boogie piano tradition. They have produced this boogie & blues tutor to help and inspire female players of all ages to experience the uplifting energy and abundant possibilities of this style. Written for all small-handed piano players, regardless of gender, the book contains original compositions specifically arranged for pianists with small hands ranging in difficulty from lower intermediate to advanced, as well as a variety of suitable left hand patterns and many exercises. The authors present important characteristics of the boogie & blues piano style and provide tips on how to improvise. Audio samples are downloadable as mp3 files and QR codes. www.ulrikegaate.com www.janpreston.com

(Keyboard Instruction). Ever wanted to play the blues, but weren't sure where to start? Blues Piano will teach you the basic skills you need. From comping to soloing, you'll learn the theory, the tools, and even the tricks that the pros use. And, you get seven complete tunes to jam on. Covers: scales and chords; left-hand patterns; walking bass; endings and turnarounds; right-hand techniques; how to solo with blues scales; crossover licks; and more.