Song For My Father – Horace Silver

Description

In this classic Horace Silver song, we will learn how to create a syncopated Latin bassline to play over the melody. The infectious bossa nova feel of this jazz standard makes it perfect for developing your Latin jazz piano skills. We’ll explore multiple approaches to playing the song, from basic basslines to advanced voicings and comping patterns. Improvisation will be discussed in the GEMS session, where we focus on coordination exercises that help you master the rhythmic aspects essential to this style.

Total Lesson Time: 128 minutes (2 hours and 8 minutes)

Lesson Outline:

1. Introduction and Song Overview

• History and background of “Song for My Father”
• Analysis of the song structure and harmony
• Understanding the Latin bossa nova feel

2. Bassline Fundamentals

• Learning the characteristic Latin bass pattern
• Playing the bassline with proper articulation
• Coordinating left hand bass patterns with right hand chords
• Adding syncopated rhythms for authentic feel

3. Chord Voicings

• Shell voicings (R-7 and R-3 voicing techniques)
• Rootless chord voicings for modern jazz sound
• Full chord voicings for richer texture
• Transitioning between different voicing types

4. Comping Techniques

• Latin comping patterns and rhythms
• Syncopation techniques for authentic bossa feel
• Chord placement and rhythmic variation
• Layering comping patterns over basslines

5. Lead Sheet Navigation

• Reading and interpreting the lead sheet
• Understanding chord symbols and progressions
• Connecting melody and harmony
• Handling the form (A and B sections)

6. GEMS (Growth Exercises for Musical Success)

• Advanced coordination exercises
• Bluesy variations and embellishments
• Montuno patterns for the B section
• Technique development for hand independence

7. Improvisation Concepts

• Scale choices for soloing
• Melodic development techniques
• Rhythmic motifs and syncopation in solos
• Balancing Latin and swing feels in your improvisations

8. Performance Tips

• Balance between hands for a full sound
• Dynamic control and expression
• Creating variety throughout the performance
• Professional endings and turnarounds

This comprehensive lesson will have you playing this Horace Silver classic with confidence, developing the rhythmic independence and harmonic knowledge needed for Latin jazz piano performance.