About Me

Welcome to The Jazz Piano Studio! My name is Jeff Carlson, and I am passionate about sharing the joy and art of jazz, blues, pop and improvisational piano with students of all ages and skill levels.

My Musical Journey

Music has been a central part of my life for as long as I can remember. My father, a boogie-woogie pianist, played for soldiers during World War II, and when I was a child he filled our home with the sounds of blues and jazz. Growing up, I was captivated by his playing and the rich history of the music he loved. Though I wasn't supposed to, I often snuck into his collection of old blues and jazz records from the 30s, 40s, and 50s, playing them over and over as I tried to imitate the greats. As a teenager, I developed a love of New Orleans blues and jazz as well as an interest in pop piano.

Professional Experience

With over 30 years of experience as a performer and educator, I have had the privilege of playing at numerous jazz and blues clubs, festivals, and private events across the United States and Germany. My performances range from intimate solo piano sessions to dynamic collaborations with jazz ensembles. These experiences have deepened my understanding of blues, jazz, and pop, and enhanced my ability to pass on my knowledge through my teaching to others.

Teaching Philosophy

At The Jazz Piano Studio, my approach is centered on the belief that learning music should be an inspiring and enjoyable journey. I tailor each lesson to meet the individual needs and goals of my students, whether they are beginners eager to learn the basics or advanced pianists looking to refine their skills. My teaching focuses on:

• Fundamentals of Blues, Jazz, and Pop: Understanding chord progressions, scales, and rhythm.

• Improvisation Techniques: I inspire and motivate students, helping even those who don't believe they can improvise to discover their creativity.

• Performance Skills: All along, I emphasize the importance of playing confidently. This is true no matter if you are playing for friends or family, or only yourself.

• Music Theory: It is vital to know what you are playing when you are playing it! This deeper knowledge truly enhances. your overall musicality and performance.

• Play Beyond Songs: My goal is for students to play the piano independently, not just reproduce learned songs.

• Above all, have fun: Learning music doesn’t have to be drudgery. There is a lot of enjoyment and discovery to be had when learning to play piano!

Additionally, I offer lessons in both English and German, providing a unique opportunity for students who might also want to improve their English language skills through music.

Join Me on a Musical Adventure

I invite you to join me at the Jazz Piano Studio, where we can explore the rich world of blues, jazz, and pop piano together. Whether you aspire to become a professional musician or simply wish to enjoy playing for personal satisfaction, I am here to guide you every step of the way.