Jon Batiste’s Piano Rendition Of “Blackbird” Is Magical
Learning Focus
Music Style
Free Lessons
Get free weekly lessons, practice tips, and downloadable resources to your inbox!
You know those moments when you hear a piano player do something and your reaction is immediately:
”…wait, WHAT was that?!” 😳
That’s exactly what happens in this week’s lesson.
I’m taking apart one of my all-time favorite solo piano performances of Blackbird and breaking down the absolute magic that Jon Batiste is creating at the piano.
Inside this lesson you’ll discover things like:
- Beautiful “wash” chords that instantly create a cinematic sound
- Unexpected chord changes that completely surprise your ears
- Drone tones that keep the music feeling connected while the harmony moves around
- Blues, jazz, classical, gospel, and even little country-style tricks all blended together
- Small improvisation ideas that can make your own playing sound way more expressive
One of the coolest parts? I’ll show you that amazing players aren’t just playing random notes from another planet… they’re using ideas and techniques you can actually borrow and use yourself.
So if you’ve ever wanted to peek inside the brain of a world-class pianist and steal a few tricks along the way… this one’s for you. 😎
Writer
Jonny May
Jonathan May is a pianist from Southern California who specializes in many styles of piano. At age eighteen, Jonny became the youngest pianist to perform at Disneyland. Each week he entertained thousands of guests with his arrangements of American classics and Disney songs. Jonny has also performed with the Youtube...
More Free Lessons
In this lesson, I'm breaking down exactly which scales work best over major chords and minor chords—and the best part is that I'll give you options based on your playing level.
In today's lesson, we’re pulling this tune apart to uncover all the little details that make it so unforgettable.
In this lesson, I'll break down the same jazz tune at three different levels and show you exactly what separates a beginner, intermediate, and advanced jazz player.
Looking for downloads?
Subscribe to a membership plan for full access to this Quick Tip's sheet music and backing tracks!
Join Us
Get instant access to this Quick Tip and other member features with a PWJ membership!
Guided Learning Tracks
View guided learning tracks for all music styles and skill levels
Progress Tracking
Complete lessons and courses as you track your learning progress
Downloadable Resources
Download Sheet Music and Backing Tracks
Community Forums
Engage with other PWJ members in our member-only community forums
Become a better piano player today. Try us out completely free for 14 days!
