Jazz Piano Lessons - Online and Alexandria VA
If you've ever wanted to play jazz piano, you've probably discovered that "learning jazz" can mean many different things. For most people, the goal is fairly simple: to be able to play jazz standards, improvise over them, and perhaps accompany other musicians with confidence.
At first, this can seem overwhelming. If you've listened to great jazz pianists like Oscar Peterson, Herbie Hancock, or Keith Jarrett, it may feel like playing jazz requires lightning-fast technique, incredibly advanced harmony, and years of transcribing solos.
While these musicians are certainly inspiring, I believe there is a much more accessible path into jazz.
By focusing on strong melodies, rhythmic accuracy, and a practical understanding of harmony built from major and minor scales, you can begin playing convincing jazz solos and accompaniments much sooner than many people realize.
Know Your Scales, But Not Sure What to Play?
This is one of the most common challenges for beginning jazz students. Many people learn scales and chords but struggle to turn that knowledge into actual music.
My approach focuses on giving students practical tools they can use immediately. Rather than guessing what notes to play, you'll learn how to create solos using the melody, chord tones, scales, and rhythmic concepts that provide a clear framework for improvisation.
As a result, you'll be able to create musical ideas that sound intentional and connected to the tune rather than feeling like you're simply running scales.
What We'll Work On
During our first lesson, we'll assess your current experience and determine the best starting point.
If you're comfortable with basic music theory concepts such as intervals, triads, seventh chords, inversions, and major and minor scales, we'll begin applying those skills directly to jazz standards. You'll learn simple shell voicings that form the foundation of jazz harmony, play melodies over those voicings, and begin developing improvisation skills in a structured and approachable way.
As your playing develops, we'll expand into more advanced concepts such as rootless voicings, upper extensions, reharmonization, and more sophisticated improvisational ideas.
The goal is not to overwhelm you with information. The goal is to get you making music as quickly as possible while building a solid foundation that will continue to serve you as you grow.
About Me
As a professional pianist and keyboardist, I have spent years performing in a variety of musical settings. My teaching focuses on practical musicianship and helping students develop skills they can immediately apply at the piano.
Whether your goal is to play your favorite jazz standards, improvise with confidence, or simply gain a deeper understanding of jazz harmony, I'd be happy to help you get there.
If this sounds like an approach that fits your goals, feel free to get in touch to schedule a trial lesson. I look forward to working with you.
Lesson Formats & Rates
I'm currently offering both in person and online lessons (Zoom). All trial lessons are 50% off.
Most in-person lessons take place in my studio in the Kingstowne area of Alexandria, VA (near S. Van Dorn St. & Telegraph Rd.).
Limited daytime in-home lessons (Mon–Fri, 8am–3pm) are available in select nearby communities. Availability and any applicable travel fee depend on location and scheduling.
Lessons Rates: In Person & Online
$40 - 30 minutes
$60 - 45 minutes
$80 - 60 minutes
