Vijay Iyer’s Solo on “Work” (LOTW #212)

Vijay Iyer begins his solo on “Work” with an offbeat line made up of a variety of melodic intervals. He thinks outside the box on his album “Break Stuff” (2015), accompanied by bassist Stephen Crump and prodigious drummer Marcus Gilmore. Check out some of his other original compositions and arrangements on this album! https://youtu.be/mqXQVnbfplM CLICK […]

Vince Guaraldi “Skating” (LOTW #211)

What better way to ring in the Holidays than with Vince Guaraldi’s “Skating!” This piece always reminds us of the holiday season. The melody flows in parallel thirds, and is followed by colorful chords ascending in minor thirds. Pull out this piece at any Christmas party, and you will surely impress! https://youtu.be/3R7Z2ldZzsg CLICK HERE FOR […]

Bill Evans’ Colorful Melody from “Very Early” (LOTW #210)

Bill Evans is known for his virtuosic improvisation, but he was also a very skilled composer. Check out this melody from “Very Early.” It is accompanied by a series of colorful harmonies cycling in thirds. https://youtu.be/AZkw37aKVUQ CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL LICK BOOK If you have questions or suggestions for a Lick Of The Week […]

Oscar Peterson “Riff Blues” (LOTW #209)

Here is some vintage Oscar, this time with a blues head called “Riff Blues.” Once you know this riff, you know the whole tune! Listen as Oscar takes it away with a tasty blues solo following the head. https://youtu.be/E20TFGnszDY CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL LICK BOOK If you have questions or suggestions for a Lick […]

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