Have you ever wondered how to play Autumn Leaves on piano? Well, wonder no more! This article will explain and show how to play Autumn Leaves and examine its lyrics, chords, and melody. It will also include a video lesson on how to play the song.
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How to Play Autumn Leaves on Piano: Expert Guide
Contents
Video Lesson
The following video lesson shows how to play Autumn Leaves on the piano in G minor, including the chords, melody of the main tune or ‘head’, and some improvisation over the changes.
Hopefully, you can follow this video to learn to play the song’s main melody or ‘head’, and then attempt some improvisation over the changes if you have mastered the chords in the left hand.
If you get both of these elements under your fingers you can look at some left-hand bassline playing while you improvise.
Steps
1. Learn the Melody
Start by learning the right-hand melody. Here are the first few notes:
- Right Hand (Melody):
- C – E – A – G – F – E – D – C
Play these notes in a smooth and flowing manner. Pay attention to the rhythm and phrasing. You can find sheet music or watch video tutorials to get a visual representation of the melody.
2. Add Chords
“Autumn Leaves” is typically played with rich chords in the left hand. The chords in G minor (taught in the above video lesson) are:
A Section (Twice)
C Minor 7, F7, Bb Major 7, Eb Major 7, A Half Diminished 7, D7 b13, G Minor 6
B Section
A Half Diminished 7, D7 b13, G Minor 6, G Minor 6, C Minor 7, F7, Bb Major 7, Eb Major 7
C Section
A Half Diminished 7, D7 b13, G Minor 6 to Gb7, F Minor 7 to E7, A Half Diminished 7, D7 b13, G Minor 6.
3. Explore Improvisation
Jazz music thrives on improvisation. Once you’re comfortable with the melody and chords, try adding your own flair.
You can embellish the melody with grace notes, trills, and slides. Experiment with different scales (such as the Dorian mode) to create interesting variations.
Experiment with different inversions and voicings to find what sounds best to you. Remember to keep the left hand relaxed and let the chords resonate.
4. Practice Slowly
Take your time when practicing “Autumn Leaves.” Start at a slow tempo and gradually increase the speed. Focus on accuracy and expression. Pay attention to dynamics (soft and loud) to bring out the nuances of the piece.
5. Put It All Together
Now combine the melody, chords, and improvisation. Play “Autumn Leaves” with both hands, aiming for a balanced sound. Listen to recordings of jazz pianists to
Lyrics
The falling leaves drift by the window
The autumn leaves of red and gold
I see your lips, the summer kisses
The sun-burned hands I used to hold
Since you went away the days grow long
And soon I’ll hear an old winter’s song
But I miss you most of all my darling
When autumn leaves start to fall
Since you went away the days grow long
And soon I’ll hear old winter’s song
But I miss you most of all my darling
When autumn leaves start to fall
Sheet Music
There are several versions of Autumn Leaves available on Musescore as free downloads. Here are two versions in G Minor:
- https://musescore.com/user/3402766/scores/1026276
- https://musescore.com/user/27347354/scores/4867525
FAQ
1. Is It Hard to Play on the Piano?
This song is a jazz standard that follows a 32-bar form. It is not considered a difficult jazz standard and the chords are all mostly standard for a jazz tune. It contains several 2:5:1 progressions, is fairly easy to memorize, and is often taught to beginners.
2. What Key Is It In?
This song is normally played in G Minor but like any jazz standard, it can be played in any key.
3. What Level Is It?
It is intended for grade 5-8 pianists, though it varies in difficulty based on the version you are learning. If you are transcribing a Bill Evans rendition, it is going to be a grade-8-level piece due to his complex harmonies and style.
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Conclusion
Autumn Leaves is a jazz standard often taught to beginners as it is full of 2:5:1 progressions. It is commonly taught in music schools and is one of the most popular jazz standards. Hopefully, this article (and video guide) has helped you to learn the song!
