"Grips" for learning about harmony?

[Jim Nazium]

Hey Todd,

I've been thinking for a while that I should learn some basic piano skills, to develop my ear and improve my understanding of harmony. But I've been dreading the idea of starting from scratch on a new instrument.

Then, I thought maybe your "Grips" book would be a good way to get a better understanding of chords and work on my bass playing at the same time.

I'm a beginning/intermediate jazz student FYI; I can walk on most Real Book tunes, arpeggiate the chords, etc.

What do you think? Am I at the right level for this book? Or do I really need to learn more, including basic piano competency first?

(Go ahead and plug your book, I don't mind. Don't be modest.)

Thanks,
JN

[Todd Johnson]

Originally Posted by Jim Nazium

Hey Todd,

I've been thinking for a while that I should learn some basic piano skills, to develop my ear and improve my understanding of harmony. But I've been dreading the idea of starting from scratch on a new instrument.

Then, I thought maybe your "Grips" book would be a good way to get a better understanding of chords and work on my bass playing at the same time.

I'm a beginning/intermediate jazz student FYI; I can walk on most Real Book tunes, arpeggiate the chords, etc.

What do you think? Am I at the right level for this book? Or do I really need to learn more, including basic piano competency first?

(Go ahead and plug your book, I don't mind. Don't be modest.)

Thanks,
JN

JN!!

Yes, definitely!! FFG would be ideal for what you're looking to do.

The only thing you need to do is make sure you have a bass with a hi "C"......otherwise you run out of range.

Cool?? Cool.........

So if you've got a bass with a high "C", then get after it!!

Have fun with it!!!

[Jim Nazium]

OK then. I've ordered FFG, and I'm shopping for a 5 string that I can tune E-C. Thanks! I'm sure I'll be back with questions!