The Jazz Focus (Ep. 67)

If I could go back and give my 20-year-old self advice on playing jazz guitar, this is it. No fluff, just the hard truths I learned over two decades. From overcoming overthinking and perfectionism to the importance of "playing your heart out" and deeply listening, I’m sharing the key lessons that truly matter. This isn't just about notes and scales; it's about the journey that I've experienced, and I want to share them with you. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

If I could go back and give my 20-year-old self advice on playing jazz guitar, this is it. No fluff, just the hard truths I learned over two decades. From overcoming overthinking and perfectionism to the importance of "playing your heart out" and deeply listening, I’m sharing the key lessons that truly matter. This isn't just about notes and scales; it's about the journey that I've experienced, and I want to share them with you. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

Trying to improve everything at once might be holding you back. In this video, I share a powerful mindset shift inspired by a video game study — and how it applies directly to jazz practice, improvisation, and comping. Learn how rotating your focus can unlock faster, deeper progress. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode, I break down my 3-Way Fretboard Navigation System—Vertical, Horizontal, and Diagonal—so you can stop feeling stuck in positions and start moving freely across the neck. Inspired by players like Wes and ideas from Mick Goodrick, this simple framework helps you play more musically and confidently. If you’ve ever felt lost on the fretboard, this one’s for you.Seven Position Scale exercise PDF available HERE Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

This episode explores three essential chord progressions for jazz guitarists: the 8-bar I-vi-ii-V, the 4-bar ii-V-I-vi, and the 12-bar blues. We'll also discuss how secondary dominants like the A7 chord function to create harmonic interest and movement within these progressions.   Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode, we dive into the idea that jazz practice doesn't have to be complicated—even though the music itself can be. I explore how focusing on simple, foundational elements like scales and arpeggios can lead to real progress over time. You'll learn how using intentional constraints in your practice can actually boost creativity and skill, and why it's crucial to find a balance between boredom and overwhelm. Whether you're just starting out or refining advanced techniques, this episode will help you rethink your approach and stay grounded in what really matters. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

So, you want to become a jazz guitarist in 5 minutes? Here are some surefire ways to do it. Ultimately, while it's all in jest, I invite anyone serious about learning jazz guitar to join us at our website and community for real lessons! Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

This short podcast discusses the importance of teaching and mentoring ... for our very own benefit. When we teach (jazz guitar or other), we become the pupil. If you have never been a guitar teacher, even for beginners, I highly recommend it. Check it out! Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

The most awaited podcast topic of all: chromaticism! Jazz guitarists are always curious about jazz lines with a chromatic flow. How can we achieve such a technical level of "out playing" while still remain true to the chord changes? Listen to this podcast for M-A's best advice on the topic! Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode of Album Deep Dives, I explore the pivotal work of jazz guitarist Peter Bernstein. I dive into his 1998 album Earth Tones, featuring his long-standing trio with Larry Goldings on organ and Bill Stewart on drums. You'll hear about Bernstein's masterful blend of tradition and modernity, his lyrical soloing, and the trio's exceptional interplay. Plus, I highlight standout tracks like Metamorphosis, Sublime Indifference, and their soulful take on How Deep Is the Ocean. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420