The Three Routines Every Busy Jazz Player Should Rotate
If you’ve ever tried to practice jazz and felt like nothing “stuck,” you’re not alone. Many adult learners fall into the trap of practicing for too long without focus. What works much better is short, intentional routines.
In a recent video, I walk through three 15-minute practice sessions you can rotate through the week. Each routine reinforces a vital skill area:
1. Tone & Time Feel Session
Most players don’t struggle with notes — they struggle with sound and timing. This routine fixes both by starting with long tones on guide tones and moving into simple rhythm work. Spending five minutes on tone and time aligns your ear and body for better improvisation — even before you touch a scale.
2. The One-Lick Builder
Instead of memorizing hundreds of licks, pick one and make it yours. Learn it slowly, understand where the chord tones fall, and then take it through three different keys this week. You’ll build real jazz vocabulary without burnout.
3. Two-Chord Creativity Session
You don’t need a whole tune to practice improvisational thinking. Pick a two-chord sequence (like Dm7 to G7) and break it down:
Chord tones
Passing tones
Bebop language
Spend a couple of minutes on each and suddenly your lines start to feel intentional.
Rotate for Results
Instead of daily repetition of everything:
Day 1: Tone & Time
Day 2: One-Lick
Day 3: Two-Chord
Day 4: Tone & Time
Day 5: Repeat your favorite
This rotation kills boredom and decision fatigue.
👉 Ready to build your practice plan? Watch the video now.
Want a clear 15-minute daily jazz routine built for busy players?
→ Download The 15-Minute Jazz Practice System
