Octave Practice

by Per Danielsson

Download the sheet music

In last month’s article I discussed how to increase the flexibility in the left hand.Well, afterwards it reminded me of one of my students who started to study with me a year ago. In his first lesson he told me he wanted to learn how to play bebop, so I sent him home with a Charlie Parker transcription. The following week my student showed up and played the solo note for note in octaves, in tempo and memorized. Needless to say, I was very impressed. Because of the progress that was made in a week, I decided to require this kind of exercise for all my students.

The following etude is based on rhythm changes and is in the bebop style. Practice it slowly at first and make sure the phrasing in the left hand matches the right. The left hand melody is written out so you’ll be able to mark the fingering in the music. Remember: Correct fingering is the key to good technique. Also, note the beginning of the second chorus where added some broken chords in tenths. This style of playing can be very effective. GOOD LUCK.