As a classically trained pianist, jazz improvisation has never really been my forte.I grew up reading everything on the page, interpreting what was written, polishing details – not being handed a chord symbol and told to “just play”. For a long time, jazz harmony felt like a completely different language, one that everyone else seemed
Before I decided to start freelancing full time, I genuinely thought there were only two career paths after studying piano. You either became a piano teacher or a classical concert pianist. Those were the options and neither sounded appealing. It was not until I started working in the industry full time that I realised how
Whether you’re sight-reading for a last-minute gig, jamming with a singer, or performing pop songs at a wedding, lead sheets and fake books are a lifesaver for pianists who want flexibility, freedom, and speed. But if you’re used to fully-notated classical scores, lead sheets can look… a little bare. Just a melody? A few chord
Playing piano solo is one thing, but playing with a singer, a band, or an ensemble is a whole different skill set. As a collaborative pianist, you’re not just playing the notes – you’re supporting, adapting, and communicating with other musicians in real time. Whether you’re accompanying a vocalist, working with an orchestra, or playing