An Introduction to Jazz Chord Voicing for Keyboard by Bill Boyd is an instructional piano method designed for intermediate pianists and keyboardists who want to develop authentic jazz accompaniment and improvisation skills. Focused on modern jazz harmony, it teaches how to comp from a fake book and integrate melody into rich, contemporary chord voicings, making it suitable for both structured learning and independent study.
This instructional book with accompanying audio examples supports players exploring jazz styles by combining clear explanations with practical, real-world applications. It is particularly well suited for students in jazz ensembles or pianists looking to expand their harmonic vocabulary and confidence in accompaniment.
The material includes standard notation, chord symbols, fingering guidance, and detailed instructional text. A key strength is its presentation of chord voicings and progressions in all keys, helping players apply concepts without relying on complex transposition. The included audio examples demonstrate selected material in a jazz combo context, reinforcing how the concepts translate into real musical settings.
As skills develop, the book expands into altered chords, II-V-I progressions in major and minor keys, and variation voicings that reflect today’s jazz language.
Song List
Basic Chord Voicings * The Sixth and Thirteenth Chords * Chord Construction * The Seventh Chords * The Ninth Chords * Summary of Unaltered Chords * The Altered Fifth and Eleventh Chords * The Altered Ninth Chords * Combination Chords * II-V-I In Minor * Variation Voicings * Triads and Diminished Seventh Chords * Comping * Melody Playing * Appendix A: Chord Voicings In All Keys * Appendix B: II-V-I All Major Keys * Appendix C: ii-v-i All Minor Keys * Appendix D: Common Progressions With Altered Chords