Jazz piano lessons in Toronto

What a jazz piano lesson covers

Jazz piano is built from a handful of ideas that you practice until they become second nature: how to build and voice chords, how to play the blues, how to move through common progressions like the ii-V-I, and how to improvise melodies over them. Every program is tailored to the student, but lessons typically include:

• Chord building and voicings, from basic seventh chords to richer jazz sounds
• The 12-bar blues and blues scales
• Comping: playing chords and rhythm behind a melody or another player
• Improvisation, starting with simple ideas and building toward longer solos
• Learning standards from lead sheets, and playing by ear
• Swing feel, rhythm and phrasing

Who teaches jazz piano

Martin Aucoin graduated with honours from the Humber Jazz program and is a veteran of the Toronto and Nashville music scenes. Jazz and blues piano are his specialties, and he can also take students through the Royal Conservatory (RCM) levels, so students can work on jazz and a classical or exam path side by side.

Do I need to read music or have classical training?

No. Beginners are welcome, and students who already play, classically trained or self-taught, often find jazz the most freeing way to use what they know. Reading music helps, but jazz also rewards playing by ear, and your teacher will balance the two around your goals. If you would like a classical foundation as well, our piano faculty also includes RCM specialist Lili Khachatryan.

What to practice on at home

A weighted, 88-key digital piano is a great place to start, and it lets you practice quietly with headphones. Our guide explains what to look for and whether you need a piano at home.

Playing with others

The school holds casual monthly recitals where students perform solo or with others. The genres covered have included rock, pop, jazz and folk, so there is a friendly place to try out what you are learning. See the recitals page for details.