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Instructor
Jonny May
Course
Beginner
01:27:25

The key of C is the perfect place to start, because it uses only the white keys. Once you understand how this key works, you’ll have a blueprint for learning every other key. You’ll learn the C major scale in each hand, the chords that belong to the key of C, and four chord progressions (chord patterns) that show up in countless songs. Then you’ll put it all together with Jonny’s Canon in C, an easy piece that sounds impressive.

Once you’re comfortable, you’ll learn inversions, which are different ways to play the same chord. They make it easier to move from one chord to the next, so your playing sounds smoother and more connected. You’ll practice them with a simple three-chord pattern, then use them in Jonny’s Canon in C.

Then you’ll play Jonny’s Canon in C along with a bass and drums backing track, so it feels like you’re playing in a band. Finally, you’ll learn three easy ways to play chords for someone else to sing or play along to, using the same famous chord pattern as Pachelbel’s Canon, a favorite at weddings.

Course Objectives
  • Play the C major scale in both hands and learn all the diatonic chords in the key
  • Play four common chord progressions, including the primary chord progression with smooth voice leading
  • Recognize and play root position, first inversion and second inversion chords
  • Perform Jonny's Canon in C with a full backing track, using both root position chords and inversions
  • Accompany a singer or instrumentalist using three right-hand chord grooves
Learning Focus
  • Chords
  • Groove
  • Lead Sheets
  • Scales
  • Songs

Featured Reviews

View PWJ member reviews of this course!

Fabulous!
I so wish I had been taught this years ago . I have dabbled around with books and on Utube but this is without a doubt the best and most understandable teaching method I have ever found . I actually feel I am going to make significant progress if I practice and practice is definitely easier because there is a great structure and pathway to follow. Thanks so much for this
Great tips for a starter
I like the lessons ideas are laid out
Extraordinary
Extraordinary for a beginner! I enjoyed a lot! I learned a lot about my possibilities
Making it Real
Jonny’s Canon in C is totally achievable in a couple of weeks for a beginner. Although I could play a C scale coming into the course, the Canon in C tune took a while to master. The progression from root position chords to using inversions was understandable and achievable. As someone who has more of an ambition to accompany a vocalist, the final lesson on accompaniment was an excellent addition. I got a lot out of this.
Key of C Major
A little challenging, but it flowed especially as I warmed up using the earlier lessons and finger exercises.

Course Lessons

1
Key of C Major – Lesson 1
12:40

Major Scale, 1 & 2 Octaves

2
Key of C Major – Lesson 2
13:33

4 Common Chord Progressions, Grooves

3
Key of C Major – Lesson 3
22:01

Jonny’s Canon in C, Melody, Chords, and Patterns

4
Key of C Major – Lesson 4
21:44

Inversions, Primary Chord Progression, Canon in C Application

5
Key of C Major – Lesson 5
6:51

Performance with Backing Track

Featured Reviews

View PWJ member reviews of this course!

Fabulous!
I so wish I had been taught this years ago . I have dabbled around with books and on Utube but this is without a doubt the best and most understandable teaching method I have ever found . I actually feel I am going to make significant progress if I practice and practice is definitely easier because there is a great structure and pathway to follow. Thanks so much for this
Great tips for a starter
I like the lessons ideas are laid out
Extraordinary
Extraordinary for a beginner! I enjoyed a lot! I learned a lot about my possibilities
Making it Real
Jonny’s Canon in C is totally achievable in a couple of weeks for a beginner. Although I could play a C scale coming into the course, the Canon in C tune took a while to master. The progression from root position chords to using inversions was understandable and achievable. As someone who has more of an ambition to accompany a vocalist, the final lesson on accompaniment was an excellent addition. I got a lot out of this.
Key of C Major
A little challenging, but it flowed especially as I warmed up using the earlier lessons and finger exercises.
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Explore the festive, spirited key of F major and learn the one small fingering twist that sets its scale apart. You'll also learn the chords behind popular songs and finish with a fun Latin-flavored original tune.

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