FAQs and Tips
Here we aim to provide you with quick answers to the most frequently asked questions. We’re also creating more in-depth articles on each of these topics and will link to them in time.
Beginner Tips
Career Tips
Technique Tips
How do I improve my left-hand basslines in Jazz Funk?
Forget right hand for now, start by following the basslines on some of your favourite jazz-funk tracks and get those under your fingers before adding right hand chords back in.
How do I improve my left hand comping in Jazz-Funk?
Keep it simple by playing “stabs” rather than constant block chords. Pick a slow drum beat to practise to and insert the left hand chords between melody notes in your right hand. Gradually speed up.
What are the most important scales for Jazz-Funk improvisation?
Focus on the Pentatonic scales first, followed by Dorian. The Blues scale also works well over some jazz-funk pieces.
Scales in all keys.
How do I play chords like Herbie Hancock or Jeff Lorber?
Focus on using extended chords – 9ths, 11ths and 13ths. The sound comes from using good voicings and creating smooth transitions between chords.
Chord voicings and tutorials coming soon!
How can I make my playing sound more "funky" and less mechanical?
This often comes with time. You need to feel really comfortable with a piece to find its groove. My recommendation is to play along to a drum beat or backing track of the piece daily.
Try our Drumbeat Playlist