The 12-bar blues chord progression is used in countless many well-loved songs in rock, jazz, and popular culture. Basic Blues is based on this progression and provides the perfect learning format for the discovery of blues for new pianists. A steady walking bass line sets the foundation while chord symbols tell Right Hand what notes they can use to improvise fun swing rhythms. (Simple rhythms are notated in the music for those not inclined to improvise).
Just sit back, relax, and play — This lazy, leisurely paced piece is written in slow jazz style with dominant ninth, major sixth, and minor sixth chords. It’s perfect for beginner players interested in learning this style. It also demonstrates how a melodic line can completely change feel simply by adding a flat sign to one note.
Any late beginner or early intermediate pianist itching to play ragtime will love the Cheerio Rag! This original piece combines easy LH stride accompaniment and rhythmic RH melody sprinkled with accidentals and subdivision offbeats to capture that quintessential playful ragtime sound.
