Introduction to the Challenge
After wrapping up my first 100 hours of piano learning, I couldn’t shake off the infectious energy of boogie woogie music. It just hooked me! So, I’ve decided to dedicate the next 100 hours to dedicated learning on how to play boogie woogie piano, focusing on techniques for beginners. I can’t wait to see how long it takes to learn boogie woogie piano and really get into the groove of this lively style!
What Inspired the 100 Hours of Boogie Woogie?
The short answer is this guy. I saw Jules Holland and his band live in Brussels about 20 years ago and , to this day it still remains one of the most fun and entertaining live events I have ever been to. The infectious joy of the music and the musicians playing it can’t be beaten.
But don’t just take my word for it. Search up “Best current Boogie Woogie piano players” online and take a look at some of the talent out there.
Setting the Expectations for This Journey
I’m diving into this 100-hour journey with realistic expectations. I know I won’t be a boogie woogie master after 100 hours, but I’m excited to improve my skills along the way. I expect to enjoy the process, and when I look back after those hours, I’ll feel a genuine sense of accomplishment as I groove to the rhythms I’ve learned. Let’s see how far this adventure takes me! And when somebody types into google “how long to learn boogie woogie piano” I hope I will be able to give them some hints and tips.
Getting Started: Day 1
First Impressions of Boogie Woogie
Jumping into this boogie woogie adventure has been an eye-opener. It looks simple, but once I started playing, I quickly realized how much I rely on that left-hand rhythm to drive everything. I’m definitely feeling the challenge, but that’s part of the fun, right? With my new book – How to Play Boogie Woogie Piano – by Arthur Migliazza in hand, I’m ready to tackle this genre head-on and see where it leads.
Daily Practice Routine
In this 100 hour challenge, I aim (as always) to get in 1 hour a day of practice. It’s not always possible but consistency will be the key – especially here. As the key is going to be the left hand rhythm, this is where I focus first, but here is a breakdown of the practice plan.
- 10-Minutes – Warm up and basic rhythm
- 40-Minutes – Exercises and learning from the book
- 10-Minutes – Relax, play what I know and have fun
With this simple routine, I aim to let the learning seep into my muscle memory. This will be the foundation of progress.
Breaking Down the Basics
Before I received my book, I began my 100 hours with some basic left hand chords that I found on YouTube. I wanted to get straight into it so I found what I could. I also learned the St Luis Blues by W.C Handy from the Flowkey app. Now the book has arrived, I am right into the intro to the 12-Bar Blues. The Video I posted of the experience is below.
Finding the Right Style and Tempo
One thing I have learned from watching great Boogie Woogie Players and listening to their advice is. Don’t try to copy a style. It’s ok to learn it and use it as a base, but naturally your own style will come out. Everybody plays differently , learns differently and add libs differently. Let it develop.
And as for Tempo. Well good luck keeping up. Start real slow.
Incorporating Fun into Practice
Sharing My Progress on YouTube and Facebook
So I created a YouTube channel some time ago and I have special playlist dedicated to this 100 hour boogie boogie challenge. I also have Facebook page where I share progress, posts of my favourite performers and more. Come join me and follow along.
Reflections on Day 1
As you can probably tell, I am really excited about this challenge I have set myself. I have always loved this style of music, ever since hearing the great Ray Charles as a kid. I always thought it was beyond me. But as I grow older I am learning one thing I have in common with this style of music. It’s played by people who love how it sounds and love what they do and who really don’t care what anyone else thinks. Is’nt that a great way to live?
