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Yukimi Maeda: From Classical to Jazz: Your First Steps into Improvisation -- A practical masterclass for classically trained pianists who want to begin playing jazz. - October 14, 2026: 1:00 – 3:00 pm Eastern Time

Yukimi Maeda: From Classical to Jazz: Your First Steps into Improvisation — A practical masterclass for classically trained pianists who want to begin playing jazz. – October 14, 2026: 1:00 – 3:00 pm Eastern Time

October 14, 2026:  1:00 – 3:00 pm Eastern Time

From Classical to Jazz: Your First Steps into Improvisation — A practical masterclass for classically trained pianists who want to begin playing jazz. (Class length 2 hrs.)

Many classically trained pianists dream of playing jazz but aren’t sure where to begin. If you can read music well but feel uncertain when faced with a lead sheet, chord symbols, or improvisation, this masterclass is designed for you.

Drawing on years of experience helping classical pianists successfully transition into jazz, Yukimi Maeda will introduce a practical, step-by-step approach that removes the mystery from improvisation. Rather than focusing on advanced jazz theory, this class builds the essential foundation needed to begin thinking and hearing like a jazz musician.

Topics include:
• Understanding the difference between classical scores and jazz lead sheets
• How to read and interpret a lead sheet with confidence
• Hearing harmony instead of simply reading notes
• Rootless voicings and creating a natural jazz accompaniment
• Why the melody on a lead sheet is only a starting point—not the final version
• Simple ways to begin embellishing and “faking” a melody
• How transcription develops jazz language and leads naturally toward improvisation
• Practical exercises that connect listening, harmony, and improvisation

The class will conclude with live coaching of 2–3 volunteer performers, allowing all participants to observe the learning process and gain practical insights that apply to their own playing.

Whether your goal is to play your first jazz standard, understand lead sheets, or finally feel comfortable improvising, this masterclass will provide a clear and encouraging pathway from classical training to jazz performance.

 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR PURCHASE

1. Once you make your purchase, you will immediately receive a paid receipt.

2. Aspire will send you confirmation by email, as well as your Zoom link for the masterclass.

Registration



Biography

Yukimi is a New York-based jazz pianist, recording artist, and educator with over 25 years of teaching experience in both Japan and the United States.

Born and raised in Japan, Yukimi began her musical studies through classical piano training before discovering jazz and becoming captivated by its freedom, creativity, and expressive depth. Drawing inspiration from masters such as Duke Ellington, Bud Powell, and Bill Evans, she developed her own musical voice while building a strong technical and artistic foundation.
As a performer, Yukimi has appeared at numerous venues in New York and internationally, including prestigious jazz clubs such as Dizzy’s Club and Mezzrow Jazz Club. Her performances combine technical precision, lyrical expression, and a deep appreciation for the jazz tradition.

Yukimi has released four recordings as a leader. Her third album, “NY Memories,” featured legendary jazz vocalist Sheila Jordan and bassist/producer Harvie S. The album received praise from jazz journalist Marc Myers, who wrote, “It’s the kind of album that you can listen to all day long, and if you’re writing, painting or creating in any way, it’s inspiring.”
Her fourth album, “I Believe in You,” released in October 2024 with Harvie S as bassist and producer, received significant recognition from respected Japanese jazz critic Seiichi Goto in Jazz Hihyo (Jazz Critique), one of Japan’s longest-running jazz publications. The recording was subsequently nominated as one of the magazine’s Best Albums of 2025.

Yukimi has also collaborated with many distinguished jazz artists throughout her career. She performed in a tribute concert honoring Sheila Jordan alongside acclaimed musicians including bassist Cameron Brown, drummer Billy Drummond, and The Royal Bopstars, further establishing her presence within New York’s jazz community.

In addition to her performing career, Yukimi is deeply committed to music education. In Japan, she taught at Kawai Music School and operated her own private studio, working with students ranging from young children to senior adults. After relocating to New York, she continued teaching at Riverdale Music Studio and Lagond Music School before establishing her own private teaching practice.

Her teaching approach combines strong fundamentals—including note reading, rhythm, ear training, and music theory—with a special emphasis on natural body movement and tension-free piano technique. Drawing from both her classical background and extensive jazz performance experience, she helps students develop efficient technique, musical freedom, and expressive artistry.

Yukimi also teaches jazz harmony, improvisation, and ear-based learning, encouraging students to develop the ability to play what they hear while building a deep understanding of music. Each lesson is carefully tailored to the individual student’s goals, learning style, and experience level, creating a personalized path for meaningful and lasting growth.

SPECIALTIES:

Jazz piano
Ear training and solfège
Sight reading
Jazz improvisation
Injury preventive piano technique
Classical and jazz integration
Bebop
Classical piano (beginner to advanced)
American songbook

LANGUAGES:

Japanese, English

 

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