Volume 1 introduces the intermediate pianist to the basic chord-types used in jazz, from major and minor triads to seventh and ninth chords. Other topics include: Chord/scale relationships, modes, broken chord and scale patterns, pentatonic and blues scales, walking bass lines, Latin rhythms and bass lines, the diatonic cycle, secondary dominants, II V I sequences, horizontal and vertical improvisation, tritone substitution, two-handed voicings, rootless voicings, technical exercises and fingering, accompaniment styles, ear-training, discography (suggested listening).

28 pieces by the author appear alongside special arrangements of well-known jazz standards, including: Autumn Leaves • Fly Me to the Moon • In a Sentimental Mood • Mannenberg • On Green Dolphin St (Part 1) • Ornithology • Song for My Father • Straight No Chaser • Take the A Train. Also included are transcribed solos by Thelonious Monk and Horace Silver, an invaluable source of authentic jazz techniques.