5 Creativity Tips to Unlock Your Full Potential
Introduction Creativity is often seen as an elusive talent, a mysterious gift that only a few possess. Yet, after decades of observing creative minds and studying psychological research, it becomes clear that creativity is not a rare talent but a specific way of operating available to anyone. In this blog post, we will explore the […]
Master scales and subdivisions
Introduction to Rhythmic Subdivision Practice When mastering any musical instrument, particularly in advanced studies, the method of practicing scales and patterns can deeply impact progress. Traditional approaches often focus on increasing the tempo via a metronome, focusing on speed. A more nuanced method involves increasing the debit — that is, the number of notes played […]
When and How to Start Transcribing Jazz Solos by Ear
To transcribe a jazz solo by ear is one of the most effective ways to improve: you learn the language, phrasing, swing, and melodic reflexes directly from the masters. Yet many players give up because they lack a clear method or fear they “don’t have the ear.” The good news is that transcribing jazz solos […]
Benjamin Petit: Nomadism and Artistic Identity
Exclusive masterclasses by Benjamin Petit Watch now >> Introduction In the jazz world, pursuing two demanding careers simultaneously is a rare and admirable feat. Benjamin Petit, a professional jazz saxophonist and airline pilot, epitomizes this unique blend of passion and discipline. Through a captivating interview, Benjamin shares insights into how he manages his dual professions, […]
Rick Margitza: Building a Lasting Musical Journey
Masterclass with Rick Margitza February 19th Learn more >> Rick Margitza, an accomplished saxophonist known for his innovative jazz compositions and dynamic live performances, offers a fascinating glimpse into his musical career, focusing on his long-standing residency at La Gare in Paris. In this live discussion, we explore Rick’s approach to performing regularly, his band […]
Café Laurent: Christian Brenner’s Jazz Legacy and Concert Production Insights
Introduction Christian Brenner is a celebrated pianist, composer, and producer whose work has shaped the Paris jazz scene for over 25 years. As the driving force behind the Café Laurent, located in the historic Hôtel d’Aubusson in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Brenner has produced and organized thousands of concerts, fostering a unique community for jazz musicians and audiences […]
Master the II-V-I Chord Progression: A Guide For Jazz Musicians
English French Resources: Become a JVL Pro member Become a JVL Pro member Music theory can sometimes feel complex, but breaking it down into simple concepts makes it accessible for all musicians. One of the most fundamental and widely used progressions in music is the II-V-I chord progression. This progression forms the backbone of countless […]
Movable-Do Solfege: The Complete Guide for Jazz Musicians
If you want to improve your ear, understand harmony more deeply, and transpose jazz standards with ease, the movable-Do solfege system is one of the most powerful tools you can use. Unlike fixed-Do (where “Do” is always C), movable-Do assigns each syllable to a scale degree, making it directly connected to musical function. This makes […]
Our progress on Jazz Video Lessons in 2025
2025 Recap: A Year of Growth and Jazz Exploration 🎶🎉🎧 As 2025 draws to a close, we want to take a moment to reflect on an incredible year of learning, growth, and jazz discovery here at Jazz Video Lessons. 📏🚀🎈 Whether you’re a long-time member or a recent addition to our community, we’re grateful for […]
Mastering Jazz Piano: Touch, Space & Expression with Kenny Barron
Introduction to Jazz Piano Mastery Jazz piano is an art form that combines technical skill with deep personal expression. Renowned jazz pianist Kenny Barron shares insights from a coaching session at SF Jazz in San Francisco, highlighting the importance of touch, use of space, and emotional connection in jazz performance. Whether you are a beginner […]
15 essential saxophone warm-ups
Warming up before a practice session or performance is crucial for achieving optimal tone, technique, and fluidity. However, time constraints often make it challenging to execute a full warm-up routine. In this comprehensive guide, saxophonist and educator Alex Terrier shares 15 carefully selected saxophone warm-up exercises designed to efficiently warm up your fingers and enhance […]
Wayne Shorter’s Philosophy of Life Through Jazz
Introduction Wayne Shorter, a renowned jazz musician, composer, and visionary, is celebrated for his unique and profound approach to creativity, art, and life itself. In this enlightening discussion, Shorter delves into the interplay between literature, science, and jazz, exploring how these elements have shaped his philosophy of life. His insights resonate with musicians, artists, and […]
Build your repertoire with the ultimate standards list
“Learning tunes and playing sessions made sense to me because Jazz is collective music by nature, so the bigger my repertoire, the more chances I would have to connect with other musicians.” Miguel Zenon Jazz standards are the foundation—the very DNA—of this music. Every jazz musician needs to know them. There’s no shortcut, no substitute […]
Julius Keilwerth Saxophone 100-Year Anniversary: History & Exclusive Model
Watch the full replay of our exclusive interview with Al Maniscalco, the man behind the new Keilwerth saxophone, as we explore the rich history of Julius Keilwerth saxophones and the craftsmanship behind the limited edition 100th-anniversary model. ✨ What you’ll discover in this replay:✅ The legacy of Julius Keilwerth saxophones✅ Exclusive details about the design […]
Antonio Carlos Jobim: The Genius Behind Bossa Nova
🇬🇧 English 🇫🇷 Français 🇬🇧 English Antonio Carlos Jobim: The Genius Behind Bossa Nova When it comes to shaping the sound of modern jazz and Brazilian music, few names stand as tall as Antonio Carlos Jobim. Known as the “father of bossa nova,” Jobim seamlessly blended samba rhythms, jazz harmonies, and poetic lyricism to create […]