Since I was 8, I've gotten classical training, and more recently (im 15) I got a serious classical piano teacher.

I've been getting more and more interested in jazz, and often find myself making up stuff, improvising, etc instead of practicing my classical material, sometimes for hours at a time.

My question is, should I get a jazz piano teacher aside from my classical one, and could having two different teachers negatively affect my progress in each genre. Also should I mention this idea to my classical teacher? Maybe jazz is better self-taught?

I haven't talked to my parents about this idea yet, but I wanted to get some feedback from people who know more about jazz, jazz teachers. etc

Thanks,

Based on what you said, it sounds like you'd get a lot out of pursuing jazz, and you really should consider getting a jazz teacher. I'm lucky in that I was able to find someone really awesome, and my learning has really taken off since then. I think that if you're serious about the music, you'd best not rely on self-teaching alone. There's definitely great value in exploring ideas on your own, but you're almost 100% guaranteed to progress much faster, and becomes a better musician, if you find a good teacher. There are just too many subtleties that books, etc., can't comprehensively teach you for you to rely on them alone. Also, the feedback that a teacher can provide you is priceless, and goes a long way.

It's fine to have two teachers: one for each genre (unless, of course, you wanted to try to find a new teacher who does both--such an animal does exist, however they're harder to find). And I don't see any reason why you couldn't cultivate jazz and classical competence at the same time. It's really just going to double your practice time, but since you're only 15, go for it while you still can. Once you're in the rat race, it's a different story!!

By the way, many people who make the leap from classical to jazz struggle with improvisation and swing, but since you've already been tinkering with improvisation, you've probably got a decent head start already. That's to say you're obviously not too intimidated to give it a shot. It's common for folks to have psychological, etc. barriers to such a thing.

Jazz rocks, and you'll have a blast! Good luck.

Thank you very much for your encouraging feebback. I do plan to pursue a career as a pianist (I've made a few professional appearances, actually...) I've been exposed to jazz all of my musical life and, I have to admit, when I first heard it, I hated it. But that's also exactly what I thought when I heard classical. I love the attention I get when I'm the youngest one at a jazz concert (or even a classical one). I guess tastes mature with time.

I've tried hitting the books and trying to learn jazz, but none of it worked for me - it was all either too easy or too technical and incomprehensive.

As for performing, I find jazz MUCH more fun to perform for an audience than classical (Not that I dont like performing classical) -not as much pressure for right notes, strict musicality, etc, and I like the way it's kinda "laid back" and it provides, IMO for a much more comfortable and relaxed performing experience.

I'll definately do some research and asking around about some good jazz musicians/teachers in my area. My only setback would be paying for the lessons on top of my classical lessons.

bump

I wish you all the best in your search for the right teacher(s).

It is possible for jazz and classical music to coexist in the same body. There is a great musician (trumpet) named Wynton Marsalis. He is the artistic director for the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra in New York. He has won 8 grammies for both jazz and classical music. You might want to check out his biography on his website-- http://www.wyntonmarsalis.net/main1.html

Again, good luck in your search.

any more comments?

Hi,
Having your technique at a strong stage in your classical is really helpful when approaching jazz. Be careful to not inspire fighting between the two teachers through you-a lot of teachers are very particular about what they do and won't be that openminded about you doing both.

I am a jazz pianist and teacher. Over the years, I have had and still have classical piano students study jazz piano with me. It works if you have the time and energy...the combined workload can become a bit overwhelming. Up to this point I have not had a problem with conflicting pedagogy styles since the material and approach are so different. The students I've had were usually organized, focused and dedicated to music and practicing. I say go for it. One last thing to think about: Some of my classically-trained pianists come for a lesson on an as-needed basis. It works for me.

Thanks for the suggestion. I think it sounds like a good idea to keep jazz and classical material isolated whil at lessons. Wouldn't want a fight (although It could probably get pretty interesting...) :p

Thanks for the reply.

I imagine most classically trained students that are interested in pursuing jazz instruction would have an idea beforehand about they extra time commitment. They are most likely already organized, focused and dedicated to music and practice if they have already had serious classical training. I'm interested in becoming a pianist and I think anyone who is would know that time, dedication, and focus is essential.

P.S.- Kawai9064, may I ask if you make a living as a jazz pianist and teacher?

Primarily teaching. Been teaching for 35 years. Not playing as much jazz as I'd like to; tough to make a living playing only jazz gigs..the reality of the business, I guess.

Hey Kid... how is VA? I cant say I miss it yet... especially the humidity!! (I was in Va Beach for 8 years)... I know of a jazz camp here in CA that is pretty amazing and I am personal friends with one of the proffessors... I suggest you find something like that to attend. Definately 2 teachers, but ensure your classical teacher knows of your goals, maybe he/she knows of someone who can get you on track with out interfering with her teaching. I have seen the kids play at jazz camp after only playing classical, and one magical week gives them such an edge! Seriously! It is a traditional jazz camp... but great things happen there. Not sure there are any on the east coast... but I know this one runs about $600 for the week, then you would need airfare to sacramento. Also I believe you have to audition to get in (send a recording). Email me if you want the link to it.

NO I am not involved at all with the camp... just have seen wonderful things happen. They also have an adult camp that I WISH i could go to! Maybe one year.

Hey. Virginia isn't bad, but it's hot and humid as usual. (It was 103 degrees one day last week, with 100% humidity)

Piano camp would be something I'd definately look into. It's too late this summer, but I'm looking at a few for next year (especially Brevard in NC). Sacremento is a bit far for me to travel, but I know there are some good ones on the East Coast.

I have some connections at the university nearby and I'm gonna e-mail their jazz director and ask if he knows any good jazz pianists/teachers I could get in touch with.

Thanks for the reply.
(BTW, how does CA compare with Va Beach?)

A jazz camp can be a lot of fun and inspiring but you cannot really get enough information, explanation or enough time to assimilate much in such a short time period as a week. Learning to play jazz piano is a slow and long-time consuming process. It would be a little bit like trying to learn to be a doctor in one week.