Vocal Accompaniment for Jazz Piano

The Fundamentals of Supporting a Vocalist

Welcome to this lesson on vocal accompaniment for jazz piano. This workshop explores the foundational principles of accompanying a singer, focusing on voicings, range, rhythm, and musical interaction.

Whether you’re playing in a solo piano setting or with a rhythm section, the key to great accompaniment lies in simplicity, awareness, and strong harmonic support.

The Role of a Pianist in Vocal Accompaniment

Accompanying a vocalist is fundamentally similar to comping for any other instrument. However, special care is needed because the human voice lacks frets or keys—meaning singers rely heavily on the pianist for harmonic support and guidance.

A well-placed voicing can enhance the melody, while an overly complex one can clash with the singer’s phrasing. Therefore, prioritizing clarity and logical voice leading is essential.

Voicings Must Support the Melody

• The most important rule in vocal accompaniment is that the melody takes priority.
• Voicings should be chosen to support the melody rather than compete with it.
• The type of voicings used will depend on the style of the piece and the singer’s preference.

Foundational Voicings for Vocal Accompaniment

A solid starting point for accompanying singers is using three-note voicings that contain only the root, 3rd, and 7th of each chord. These minimal voicings provide harmonic clarity while leaving space for the vocalist to shape their interpretation.

The Drop 2 Voicing Approach

Another highly effective voicing technique is the drop 2 voicing. This approach creates full-sounding chords while keeping the voicings compact and within a suitable range.

• Example: A 2-5-1 in C major using drop 2 voicings:
  • D-7 → G7 → Cmaj7
  • F-7 → Bb7 → Ebmaj7 (in different keys)

These voicings allow for smooth movement between chords and ensure the harmony is supportive rather than intrusive.

The Importance of Range

• Voicings should generally stay below the melody to avoid interfering with the vocalist’s line.
• Keeping the highest notes of the chord under the middle C area ensures a warm and balanced accompaniment.
• If playing without a bassist, ensure that the root is clearly outlined in the left hand.

Rhythm & Comping Patterns

Accompanying a vocalist rhythmically should be simple, logical, and responsive to their phrasing.

Basic Comping Rhythms

• On Beats 1 & 3: Provides a grounded, traditional swing feel.
• Anticipated Syncopation (on "and" of 2 & 4): Inspired by Red Garland, this creates light, forward-moving momentum.
• Combining Both Approaches: Alternating between on-the-beat and syncopated playing provides variety without being distracting.

Thinking Like a Horn Section

• Comping should resemble the way a big band trombone or sax section plays: supportive, well-placed, and rhythmically locked in.
• When playing with a rhythm section, listen to the drummer and bassist to complement their feel.
• Less is often more—resist the urge to overplay.

Advanced Accompaniment Techniques

Once the foundational skills are in place, you can begin experimenting with more advanced harmonic and rhythmic techniques.

Using Tritone Substitutions

• In moments of vocal rests, inserting tritone subs can add harmonic interest without disrupting the melody.
• Example: Instead of resolving G7 → Cmaj7, substitute Db7 → Cmaj7 for a smoother or more modern sound.
• Use sparingly and only when it enhances the vocalist’s phrasing, rather than overshadowing it.

Playing in a Trio vs. Solo Piano Setting

• With a bassist: Avoid doubling the root—focus on guide tones (3rds & 7ths) and extensions.
• Without a bassist: Play the roots more frequently to maintain harmonic clarity.
• In both cases, awareness of spacing in voicings is key.

Practicing Vocal Accompaniment

A great way to internalize these concepts is by practicing along with isolated vocal tracks. This allows you to:

1. Develop sensitivity to the singer’s phrasing.
2. Test different voicings and comping rhythms.
3. Improve your ability to follow and respond musically.

Check out classic recordings like:

• Ella Fitzgerald & Ellis Larkins – "Pure Ella" (duo setting with elegant stride-style accompaniment)
• Chet Baker – "It Could Happen to You" (trio format with subtle, tasteful comping)
• Kenny Barron & Stan Getz – "People Time" (a masterclass in duo interplay)

5 Practice Tips for Vocal Accompaniment

1. Start with simple three-note voicings (root, 3rd, and 7th) and expand gradually.
2. Keep voicings below the melody line to avoid clashing with the singer.
3. Experiment with rhythmic placement, but prioritize groove over complexity.
4. Use tritone substitutions tastefully in moments where the melody allows for reharmonization.
5. Listen to great accompanists and transcribe comping styles to internalize their approach.

By mastering these core concepts, you will develop the confidence and versatility to accompany vocalists effectively in any jazz setting. 🎶