Teaching and Learning Jazz: From tradition to technology: A frank appraisal of jazz education

For the first time, renown player and educator Richie Beirach puts in print his five decade long experiences as both a student and instructor of jazz. 


Performer, author, and teacher, Michael Lake, collaborates with Richie to produce this honest no-holds bared examination of how jazz is taught and learned.


Discover the 100-year evolution of jazz education, the makings for an effective teacher, the realities of a university education and how best to choose the right school, the mindset and technologies available to elevate musicians in their pursuit of jazz, the psychological process of learning a complex skill like music, and the future these two passionate jazz advocates see for this music.


“Richie’s thoughts within this book are as tight as usual. He positions himself in a way that could be construed as argumentative on several subjects but always thought-out and logical (as he is musically as well.) 


The mentors description with Richie as the centerpiece are historical in their implications considering the learning on the job atmosphere that our generation reveled in. 


Richie discusses the workings of the present situation in higher learning and future remedies that could be applied. The book is strongly optimistic and will inspire readers to think deeply about the legacy of jazz education.”

Dave Liebman

Jazz Performer and Educator



“Teaching and Learning Jazz is the most important book on jazz education I have ever read, and possibly ever written!”

Justin DiCioccio

Associate Dean/Chair Emeritus, Jazz Arts Program, Manhattan School of Music