Linear sprints and warm-ups

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This issue, I bring you more warm-ups and linear sprints. These linear sprints focus on the left-hand crossover. The pattern consists of an ascending and descending arpeggio of the four basic triad qualities, with the left hand crossing over the right hand for a two-octave jump. When crossing over, keep the hand as low as possible without hitting the right hand, of course. This will help you land in time, especially at faster tempos. Remember to keep the fingertips firm each time the hand lands for a clean, balanced sound. Try this in all keys.

Linear Sprint #1

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Here is an etude featuring right-hand 4[Symbol Not Transcribed] voicings. Starting with F7sus, the chords move up in whole steps through the first four measures. In the fifth measure, they start from F#7sus and ascend again. The chords are also given in descending order.

Chord-Toner #1

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Variations

Practice Linear Sprint #1 with a short, detached staccato feel. Play at both piano and forte levels.

Practice Chord-Toner #1 giving a short staccato sound to all the quarter notes.

Tom Brislin is a keyboardist, vocalist and songwriter who appears regularly in the New York and New Jersey areas. He has performed and/or recorded with artists in many styles of music including Meat Loaf, Glen Burtnik and Michael Brecker. Currently, he fronts the original modern-rock band, You Were Spiraling, and has produced the band's two CDs: You Were Spiraling and The Hello CD.