That’s a questions that scares a LOT of new improvisers (and some not-so-new.) I thinks it’s one of the very first things we need to be clear on. If we’re not, we’ll always improvise from a “PLEASE don’t let me play a wrong note!” starting point—not fun at all. And it doesn’t help that jazz tunes often changes keys (a LOT!) with no warning. It’s no wonder a lot of students hesitate to jump in. If only they had the confidence of knowing what key(s) they were in. If only…
I think I can help with this. In this lesson, we’ll look at how to quickly figure out what key you should be improvising in (and remember things can and do change a lot!) First, download the What Key Am I In? pt. 1 PDF, which also includes examples for all instruments. Next, check out the video. DO NOT look at the answer key just yet (be strong!) This video includes a little project for you to do…THEN you can look at the key. 😇
Of course, it doesn’t really help to know what key you’re in if you can’t play in that key anyway. 🤨 And that’s why all great improvisers have practiced those major and minor scales so much. And that’s why I remind you all to do the same every chance I get.
Ready? Let’s start!