Deciding Whether to Learn Jazz or Classical Piano First

Choosing between learning jazz or classical piano often depends on your musical interests and goals. Each genre offers unique benefits that can greatly enhance your overall piano skills. Understanding the differences and combining both approaches can lead to a well-rounded and versatile musician.

The Importance of Proper Technique

For beginners, starting lessons for at least a year is highly recommended. This foundational period is crucial for acquiring proper technique, which is significantly important for both classical and jazz piano. Additionally, learning how to read music is a valuable skill that opens up a wide range of repertoire and further opportunities for growth.

Exploring Your Interests

The journey to becoming a pianist should align with your passion and aspirations. If you are a lover of classical music, you can continue your studies and delve deeper into the intricacies of the genre. Alternatively, if jazz is where your heart lies, begin by exploring the improvisational nature and stylistic versatility it offers. Start by listening to and trying to replicate your favorite jazz recordings on the piano.

Adapting to Your Learning Style

Consider how you learn best. If you excel in understanding music through ear training, jazz might be a more accessible starting point. Many jazz pianists throughout history, including some of the greats like Art Tatum, were not formally trained in reading music. On the other hand, some classical pianists with exceptional hearing and understanding of rhythmic patterns can also excel in jazz without traditional formal education.

Combining Jazz and Classical Approaches

While you can choose to focus on one genre over the other, mixing classical and jazz skills can lead to more comprehensive growth as a musician. For example, one year of jazz practice can deepen your understanding of classical cadences, key changes, and form. This knowledge can make you less intimidated when it comes to improvisation and playing in complex musical contexts, such as Bach or the other classical 'Masters' who engaged in improvised performances. In the process, you may also discover that jazz theory and chord structures can help you tackle classical pieces more easily, leading to a broader understanding and more creative improvisation.

Emphasizing Key Scales and Chords in Jazz

When starting your jazz journey, focus on the Major and Relative Minor scales, as well as their Pentatonic equivalents. These scales are foundational and will serve you well, especially since they can be easily adapted to contemporary pop and post-jazz music. Good jazz teachers can also help shortcut the learning process by helping you conceptualize more advanced chord progressions and theory. By the time you start classical piano, you will already have well-developed skills in harmonic and compositional techniques, which can enhance your classical learning experience and performance.

Ultimately, the decision to learn jazz or classical piano first comes down to your personal interests and learning style. Whether you choose to dive into jazz or classical first, combining both approaches can lead to a more versatile and well-rounded musician. So, explore both genres and find the path that resonates most with you!