Unlocking Jazz Standards Masterclass

What’s it about?

Highly respected British jazz guitarist, Denny Ilett, calls on his extensive knowledge of teaching, writing and playing, and shows you that jazz standards aren’t as complicated as you think. Across a wealth of playing examples, backed up with 15 focused lessons and an in-depth study guide, Denny shows you how to demystify a world of harmonic colour. You’ll start with the foundations, then build your knowledge step by step so you can easily navigate a greater number of harmonic twists and turns.

Denny’s philosophy is that things aren’t hard, they’re just unfamiliar. Get to know these new ideas, make them your own, and transform yourself from a great guitarist into a top-class musician.

What are jazz standards?

A “standard” is a piece of music or a progression that is so widely known and performed that it has become an essential part of that particular genre. In jazz, these include “Autumn Leaves” and “Misty”, which are both covered in this Masterclass. 

What will I learn?

Jazz is known for its complexity and that’s what Denny looks to demystify. He’ll show you how to overcome common progressions, and how to analyse a chord sequence so you can be truly comfortable with all the moving parts.

As you dissect the essentials, you’ll also make use of jazz staples such as tritone substitutions, chromaticism and the altered scale. Giving you more ways to move around the neck and more harmonic ground to explore.

In learning “Misty”, “Autumn Leaves” and all of the essentials, you’ll not only have the confidence to sit in on a jam session, but you’ll unlock a new level of fluidity that can be transferred to any style.

What theory is covered?

• Diatonic harmony
• 1-6-2-5 
• Chromaticism
• 2-5-1
• Altered dominant 
• Secondary dominant
• Tritone substitution

Who’s it for?

Jazz doesn’t need to be confusing and that’s exactly what this Masterclass proves. If you’re a player looking to explore more harmonic ground or want to cement a rock-solid foundation of jazz knowledge, then this is for you. A simple, structured way to learn an essential subject.