Lesson 10 of 40PianoIntermediate

More right hand language

4:28

Paddy breaks down some of the right hand language used by Professor Longhair when he played Junco Partner

Part of the coursePlay Authentic New Orleans Piano40 lessons (2h 57m)

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Paddy MilnerYour guruPaddy Milner

What's in the course

40 lessons (2h 57m) · 1 free
    • 01. Overview

      1:09

    • 02. Performance

      3:02

    • 03. Feel

      3:11

    • 04. Left hand

      11:46

    • 05. Right hand language

      10:17

    • 06. Right hand Rolls

      5:53

    • 07. More right hand language

      You are here

      4:28

    • 08. Junco Partner Ending

      10:14

Lesson transcript

Right Hand Techniques in Music

In this lesson, we'll explore some right-hand techniques, focusing on triplet-based elements and harmonic variations.

Triplet-Based Elements

  • Professor Longhair's Influence:
    There are certain right-hand patterns that echo Professor Longhair's style. For example, you can incorporate more triplet-based techniques to add depth to your playing.

Harmonic Variations

  • Runs in Thirds:
    A useful technique is the run down in thirds on the four chord. This creates a smooth transition and adds a layer of complexity.

  • Adding Fifths and Sixths:
    You might find it effective to add the fifth and even the sixth, bridging between the thumb. For instance, utilizing the G7 chord across the F and G notes can enrich your sound.

Understanding Harmonics

  • Describing Harmonies:
    Many times, the harmonies you play aren't strictly describable by conventional labels. For example:

    • G Minor 6 with a Seventh:
      While this might be a technical description, it's often more relevant to consider the overall sonic effect produced.
  • Sonic Impact:
    The emphasis should be placed on the rich, big sound you create rather than getting stuck on labels. This sonic effect can be used rhythmically to enhance your music.

Creating a Fat Sound

  • Left Hand Collaboration:
    The right-hand techniques, when combined with a strong left hand, can produce a "fat" groove. While the individual notes may not sound particularly pretty, the combination can create a compelling rhythmic structure.

In summary, focus on these techniques to enrich your playing and create a more dynamic musical experience.

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Meet your guru

Paddy Milner

Paddy Milner

Paddy Milner is recognised as one of the leading blues piano players in the world - he is currently keyboard player of choice for Sir Tom Jones, following several years with the late, great Jack Bruce - but he is also a superb original songwriter and a distinctive singer. Just read the praise from the likes of Dave Brubeck below! His playing was featured on the soundtrack for the hit 2019 film 'Rocketman'.

He has twice won the award for Best Keyboard Player in the British Blues Awards, and he holds a long-standing residency as a founder member of the Ronnie Scott's Blues Explosion at the world-renowned Ronnie Scott's club.

His current group LONDONOLA plays homegrown British music with a strong dose of New Orleans spirit, and his collaborative group JAWBONE goes from strength to strength following the release of their self-titled debut album.

  • "I love it... there's a guy who can really play the piano" - Dave Brubeck
  • "I highly recommend it. Somehow things start to feel much better!" - Jack Bruce
  • "The best blues piano player in Europe..." - Blues Access, USA
  • "Impressive & original" - The Times
  • "Dazzling" - The Independent

Across his courses, Paddy breaks down authentic blues shuffle, slow blues, boogie-woogie, rock 'n' roll and New Orleans piano - right down to three classic boogie-woogie songs - so you can learn these styles from one of the very best in the business.

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