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Learning the vocabulary of jazz is one of my favorite -- and, I would argue, most rewarding -- things to do in the practice room. Just like human language, jazz vocabulary allows us to musically understand one another, know how to react to one another, and keep ourselves from saying something stupid. From Monk-ish quirks to the pentatonic idiosyncrasies of Coltrane, jazz history is, in many ways, synonymous with jazz language -- you can see the evolution of the music, the cultural influences, the “family tree” of players, etc.

1. make sure you're posted your version of yourself playing the melody and the chords. Otherwise if you can not play the tune: click here to pay the $25 entrance fee for tonights class. If you have recorded Chi Chi and posted it on the site then you are fine to attend for free. Leave your camera off if you have paid and are auditing the class.

Just recorded this at home as preparation for our latest duo album. Martina Barta is a dream singer to play with. She listens, waits, takes the lead and sings in tune. Her voice has myriad colors that all fit well with the vibraphone. Accompanying a vocalist is not so easy. What I've learned is not to over play and to leave space.