Composition Techniques

Break through creative barriers with a systematic approach to jazz composition that eliminates the waiting game for inspiration. In this comprehensive masterclass, veteran educator Jay Umble reveals his proven compositional techniques that have helped countless musicians develop their writing skills beyond traditional methods. At the heart of this course is the innovative "Alphabetic Junction" technique—a parameter-based system that generates sophisticated chord progressions by mapping musical scales to alphabet letters. You'll learn to construct harmonically rich sequences that flow naturally from one chord to the next, creating the foundation for compelling original compositions. This isn't about following rigid formulas; it's about establishing creative parameters that guide your compositional process while maintaining complete artistic freedom. Through detailed demonstrations using original compositions like "Orange to Grey" and "Infinite Staircase," you'll master Single Tone Variation, Multiple Tone Variation, Single Chord Variation, and Numerical Junction techniques. Each method provides a different pathway to generating fresh harmonic material that would otherwise remain undiscovered in conventional approaches. Perfect for intermediate to advanced players who understand jazz harmony and voicings, this course emphasizes practical application over theory. You'll develop the ability to compose complete tunes—including chord progressions, melodies, intros, and outros—in under two hours. Whether you're writing for your combo, preparing for recording sessions, or expanding your repertoire, these techniques provide reliable tools for on-demand creativity that professional musicians need.