Jazz Guitar Insights

In this episode, I sit down with Nick Mainella — jazz educator, saxophonist, and host of https://10minutejazzlesson.com/ — to explore the genius of Clark Terry and how his teaching philosophy can inspire modern jazz guitarists. Nick shares stories about Clark’s “doodle tonguing system,” his belief in learning by ear, and how playing with feel, phrasing, and swing can communicate more than any scale or theory ever could. For jazz guitar players, this conversation is a reminder to focus on melody, time, and articulation — to make your lines speak and your solos swing. Whether you’re practicing improvisation, learning standards, or trying to sound more authentic, Clark Terry’s approach (as explained by Nick) offers timeless lessons for developing a personal and expressive jazz sound. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this podcast, Jordan shares his story of playing with NYC legends, losing his ability to play after major surgery, and discovering a completely new way to approach the guitar. Instead of endless scales, arpeggios, and theory drills, Jordan reveals a direct path to sounding authentic, connecting with your ears, and playing music that actually feels like jazz. Along the way, he shares lessons from mentors like John Scofield, and Peter Bernstein, plus his own hard-earned insights from relearning the instrument from scratch. If you’ve ever felt stuck memorizing patterns but not sounding like the records… this can show you a fresh way forward. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode of Album Deep Dives, Marc examines two defining sides of John Scofield’s artistry through Flat Out (1988) and the live album EnRoute (2003). The discussion explores Scofield’s post-bop language, deep blues influence, R&B grooves, and his distinctive approach to tone, phrasing, and motivic development. Featuring insights into both studio and live contexts, this episode highlights why Scofield remains one of the most influential modern jazz guitarists. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode of Album Deep Dives, Nathan explores Barney Kessel’s 1957 trio classic The Poll Winners, featuring Ray Brown and Shelly Manne. The discussion highlights Kessel’s earthy blues-infused sound, bebop mastery, inventive comping, and the remarkable musical chemistry that made this supergroup recording a jazz guitar landmark. A must-listen for anyone interested in the roots of modern jazz guitar. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode of Album Deep Dives, let's explore Kenny Burrell’s iconic 1963 Blue Note release Midnight Blue. From blues-soaked lines and soulful grooves to classical-influenced solo guitar work, the episode highlights why Burrell became one of the defining voices of jazz guitar. A perfect listen for anyone wanting to understand the blend of blues, bebop, and elegance that shaped modern jazz guitar.   Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode, Kevin asks Marc about the inspiration and creative process behind his original composition “The Time It Took.” The conversation expands into a deeper exploration of improvisation, listening, group interaction, and how musical ideas evolve inside real-world playing contexts. Marc shares the backstory of writing the tune, memories from early professional gigs, and how fast tempos, phrasing, and collective improv shape his approach to both composing and performing.   Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode of Album Deep Dives, Nathan explores Ben Monder’s 1997 trio masterpiece Dust. From the ECM-influenced textures of “Sleep” to the dark counterpoint of “Silent Neighbors” and the cinematic “Late Green,” the episode highlights Monder’s harmonic depth, rhythmic complexity, and unique compositional voice. A perfect listen for jazz guitarists interested in modern guitar artistry and advanced musical storytelling.   Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode of Album Deep Dives, Marc explores Grant Green’s debut record Grant’s First Stand (1961), highlighting the guitarist’s blues-driven style, bebop influence, and remarkable time feel. You’ll learn about Green’s early life, his rise through Blue Note Records, and key musical moments from the album’s standout tracks. A short but rich introduction to one of jazz guitar’s most soulful voices.   Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

Join us as we dive into Julian Lage's 2019 album, "Love Hurts," which completes his jazz trio album trilogy. We explore Lage's musical curiosity, his quest to master the jazz trio dynamic, and his exceptional dynamic control that allows him to modify his guitar tone through touch alone, without pedals. Listen for examples of the trio's magical interplay and Lage's eclectic tune selection, which includes a free improvisation interlude and traces of his country guitar mastery. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode of Album Deep Dives, we explore the often-overlooked compositional brilliance of legendary rhythm guitarist Freddie Green. Although best known as the quiet but unshakeable heartbeat of the Count Basie Orchestra, Freddie released only one album as a leader: Mr. Rhythm (1955). Today we dig into the musical architecture behind two of its standout tracks—Down for Double and Back and Forth—to uncover how Freddie crafted melodies, phrasing, and harmonic tension with astonishing subtlety. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode of Album Deep Dives, Nathan explores Allan Holdsworth’s The Sixteen Men of Tain (2000) — a landmark fusion album showcasing Holdsworth’s unmatched legato technique, expressive tone, and innovative use of the SynthAxe. Discover how his lifelong admiration for John Coltrane shaped his sound, and why this record stands as a masterful blend of jazz sophistication and futuristic creativity. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this Album Deep Dive episode, Nathan explores Charlie Christian’s groundbreaking work on The Genius of the Electric Guitar (1987). Discover how Christian transformed the guitar from a rhythm instrument to a lead voice in jazz, influencing legends like Wes Montgomery and shaping the future of bebop. Nathan highlights key tracks such as Rose Room, Seven Come Eleven, and Solo Flight, showcasing Charlie’s phrasing, timing, and innovation. A must-listen for anyone who wants to understand where modern jazz guitar truly began. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In line with the recent "Dummies' Guide to Jazz Standards", here's a podcast on how to learn, memorize and play better on standard songs. We discuss the "4-chorus exercise" (an invaluable learning tool for jazzers) that was an important teaching passed on by Michael Berard. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

With thousands of incredible jazz guitar records out there, it’s tough to choose… but these 5 albums completely changed the way I hear, feel, and play jazz guitar. Some are legendary, others underrated—but each one left a lasting mark on my musical journey. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode of Album Deep Dives, we explore Pat Martino’s debut album El Hombre (1967). Discover Martino’s early influences, his remarkable technique at just 22 years old, and the incredible story of his recovery after losing his memory in 1980. We break down each track, highlighting his bluesy lines, rhythmic creativity, and legendary collaborations. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

The best way to remember tunes is not to forget them (said no jazz guitarist ever!) Here a series of tips on how to maintain your current repertoire of jazz guitar standards. And for dessert, a neat tip yours truly recently started to apply with all his private students. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode of Album Deep Dives, Nathan explores Derek Bailey’s 2002 album Ballads, where free improvisation meets timeless jazz standards. Discover how Bailey blends melodic beauty with avant-garde textures to create a truly one-of-a-kind listening experience. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

Becoming a better person is key in developing your jazz guitar skills. The more we grow as human beings, the more we learn about life and music. That's why this podcast focuses on personal development. And, as a second topic, we'll talk a little bit about scale positions. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

Who hasn't already been there, we should ask. Practice session with "50 items" in point form? Wanting to learn 50 songs by yesterday? Feeling overwhelmed with all the harmonic possibilities? Chillax man! Listen to this podcast, breath deeply and all will be fine. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode of Album Deep Dives, we explore Hank Garland's debut jazz album, "Jazz Winds From a New Direction" . Recorded in 1960, this album established Nashville musicians in the national jazz scene  and showcased Garland's versatility across different tempos and styles . We also touch on Garland's tragic life story and his influence on later jazz guitarists like George Benson. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420