Jazz, My First Love
The first time I had ever really heard and listened to jazz was when I was 15, as I was scanning the radio dial one summer night in Boston. It was an instrumental piece with guitar, piano, bass, and drums. The improvisation and harmonies hooked me. I’ve been enamored ever since.
I learned a lot in my 2 1/2 years at Berklee College of Music in Boston, and even more at Indiana University, where I received a Masters’ degree in Jazz Studies. And as a full time musician, I continue to learn and grow musically.
I listen to jazz, both old and current, pretty much on a daily basis, when I’m out working in the yard, in the car, eating dinner, or doing the dishes after. I sit at my piano everyday, even if only for a few minutes, and play jazz. I still transcribe solos that I hear and really like, so I can improve my ears and technique…and I love every moment of it.
Do you love jazz too?
Do you play piano in your school jazz ensemble, or in a band with friends after work? Do you sit alone at your piano and wish you could play jazz tunes? Looking for a Jazz piano teacher? I share your passion and would love to work with you.
I can teach you how to:
Play the types of jazz chords the pros use
Comp ( play chords) with a bass player and drummer, behind a vocalist or instrumentalist
Improvise
Play off of a lead sheet
Use different and additional chords than the ones written in the music (reharmonization)
To be a good jazz player, you need to know a lot of theory, and have good ears. In your jazz piano lessons, we will spend time developing both these aspects of jazz, as well as good technique, fingering, and pedaling.
Is jazz your passion too?
If so, let’s get started.
Call 303.619.4408 or
email cotugno15 @ msn.com
for a complimentary meeting in my studio.
Here’s a recording of my student, Michael Potter, high school class of 2018, and selected for the 2018 Colorado All State jazz orchestra (one of only two chosen in the state!) , soon to be in college as a jazz studies major.
Great job Michael!
Paul Cotugno Piano
Piano Lessons in Broomfield / Westminster, Colorado
Call 303.619.4408 today to talk about lessons or to hire me for your event.
Do you need a dress for your special occasion?
My wife, Laura, is a professional seamstress and can custom sew the perfect dress for you.