Piano

Left Hand Rootless Voicings - Part 1

There are many different ways to interpret chord symbols on the piano. This lesson will cover a typical approach used for playing piano in a jazz combo known as left-hand rootless voicings.

Left Hand Rootless Voicings - Part 2

In the previous lesson, we looked at a method for playing II-V-I progressions in major keys, using rootless voicings in the left hand. In this lesson, we’ll apply the same concept to a II-V-I progression in a minor key. 

Autumn Leaves Rootless Voicings Example

This example uses voicings shown above and introduces others.

Black Orpheus Rootless Voicings Example

This example uses left hand rootless voicings with bossa nova rhythms.

Blue Bossa Rootless Voicings Example

This example introduces a minor 6/9 voicing.

Satin Doll Rootless Voicings Example

This example includes swing rhythms.

Left Hand Rootless Voicings - Part 3

While the rootless II-V-I concept introduced in Part 1 is an excellent starting point and “go-to” option for major II-V-I’s in most cases. It is common to occasionally “alter” the V chord in a major II-V-I in cases where it does not interfere with the melody. In some cases, the altered V chord is the preferred sound and will support a melody better than the strictly diatonic II-V-I pattern introduced in Part 1. 

Left Hand Rootless Voicings - Part 4

In Part 2 we discussed how the minor II-V-I progression presents the player with a lot of different options and opportunities to be creative with voicings and chord choices. In this lesson we will look at a few methods of creating variety and build our options for minor II-V-I chord voicings. 

Rootless Piano Voicings for F Blues #1

The starting point for left-hand rootless voicings on blues progressions is to play two-note voicings that provide the 3rd and 7th of each chord.

Rootless Piano Voicings for F Blues #2

These left-hand rootless voicings add one note (to make three-note voicings) and provide richness with 9ths or 13ths.