Jazz Workshop at Upcycle Piano Craft
Piano Workshop with Brant Jester is a series of 2-hour stand-alone, fun and easy, group piano classes in the style and genre of jazz and aimed for the pianist of any skill level. Students should be able to read and play easy piano sheet music as a prerequisite.
Each student is assigned their own piano for class. Brant's style is balanced between presenting workshop concepts to the group and coaching students of varied experience at their individual pianos. Written materials and coursework is provided to practice at home.
Workshop classes are held every third Tuesday at Upcycle Piano Craft, 3945 Main Street, Midtown Kansas City from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. Students select and enroll in each class a-la-carte.
Frequently Asked Questions
“I missed the first class, can I still enroll?”
Absolutely. Each class in the workshop series stands on its own without prerequisite. You may pick and choose from any topic, and sign up for any or all of the classes individually.
“Will I need any music theory background for this workshop?”
None is required.
“What is the suggested level I need to be at to register the workshop?”
Any level of player is welcome to the workshop.
“What do I need to bring to class?”
All materials will be provided for you.
“How often will I be playing during the workshop?”
Frequently, during the workshop there will be a call and response style of engagement.
“Do I need to be a proficient sight reader?”
No, although it would be helpful to be able to read notes on the staff.
“Do I need to bring a keyboard?”
No, you will be seated and playing on a real individual piano during the workshop.
“Will there be much individual engagement during the workshop?”
There will be a balance of group and individual engagement during the session.
“Will students be able to take notes and ask individual questions during the workshop?”
Yes, It is encouraged that students ask questions!
“Will I be required to play alone or perform during the workshop?”
There will be no required playing situations, the workshop will be a relaxed environment.
2024 Class Schedule and Cost
Links are below to find tickets and find out more information about each workshop!
7:00-9:00 pm, every third Tuesday of the month. Cost is $75 per class. Reservation is required on Eventbrite. Participants should arrive by 6:45. Free parking is available behind Upcycle Piano Craft.
January 16th, Introduction to Jazz Harmony (the 2-5-1 Chord Progression)
February 20th, Playing The Blues
March 19th, Interpreting Lead Sheets
April 16th, Exploring Modes
May 21st, Introduction to Jazz Voicings
June 18th, Comping and Common Forms in Jazz
July 16, Elements of Solo Piano
August 20, Introduction to Bebop and Chromaticism
September 17, Reharmonization and Composing
October 15, Concepts of Rhythm and Ear Training
November 19, Analysis of Jazz Piano History, Listening, and Recordings
You may choose to take any class a la carte. Each class of the series stands alone without prerequisites.