Prerequisite Knowledge for Improvisation with Jacob | FULL CLASS |

Click this link to learn piano https://www.pianobypictures.com/apply Improvisation is not easy, but fortunately piano players do not improvise in a vacuum. Although improvisation may seem fully spontaneous, musicians typically improvise within given frameworks; it's very similar to how we speak. You may not be aware of the underlying grammar that governs your day-to-day speaking, but it is there. In this video, Piano by Pictures teacher Jacob explains fundamental musical devices that will allow student pianists to begin improvising within said systems. This video covers basic harmonic theory using the number system to explain the patterns in chord progressions, basic songs, chord progressions on the I IV V and vi chords, and much more. 00:00 - Introduction to the Key of C and Scale Numbering 01:46 - The Power of Thinking in Numbers (Transposing to G, A, and Bb) 02:22 - Common Chord Progressions: The 1 and 2 (e.g., "I'd Rather Go Blind") 04:22 - Practical Communication: Calling out numbers in a live band setting 06:24 - Using Numbers for Melodies and Licks (e.g., "Amazing Grace") 08:27 - Addressing the Student Question: "Do I need to learn all keys?" 11:24 - The Relationship between the 5 Chord and the 1 Chord (Tension & Resolution) 14:27 - Introduction to Roman Numerals and Major vs. Minor Scale Degrees 15:42 - The 4-5-1 Progression 16:20 - Deep Dive into Inversions: What they are and how to use them 19:35 - The Emotional Impact of the 6 Chord (Minor) 21:00 - Genre Examples: 1-4-5 in Country vs. Gospel Style 23:35 - The "Money" Chord Progression: 1-5-6-4 and its many variations 26:46 - Worship Progressions: 4-1-5-6 and 4-1-6-5 29:12 - Class Q&A: Expectations on ending a song 31:32 - Arpeggios: Using them for momentum and velocity 34:24 - Three Reasons to Use Inversions 36:04 - Advanced Example: Richard Smallwood’s "Total Praise" Chord Analysis