A Cool Approach to Jazz Theory

From the pen of jazz educator Erica von Kleist comes “A Cool Approach to Jazz Theory”, a step by step curriculum designed to help the beginning improviser understand the basics of chords and harmony. Aimed at middle and high school students, this workbook/curriculum walks the reader through the concepts of transposition, chord symbols and outlining harmony. Perfect for jazz band students and band directors alike, this book comes paired with a FREE video series that outlines each chapter.

Erica von Kleist - Educator

While production and performance has always been her passion, Erica von Kleist has built much of her career around her love of teaching. Having been a clinician for The Juilliard School, Manhattan School of Music, UNC Greensboro and University of Montana among others, Erica has been influencing students of all ages since she began her first teaching studio at age sixteen.

Most recently on faculty for Carnegie Hall’s NYO Jazz Program and an adjudicator for Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Essentially Ellington Festival, Erica is available for workshops and clinics for students K-12 and in college.

The Business of the Music Business

It’s crucial that budding musicians understand the basics of running a business as a working artist. Sadly, this topic is not often taught or even discussed in most collegiate music programs. In January 2022 Erica von Kleist launched “The Business of the Music Business”, a FREE online web series that tackles concepts that musicians often grapple with, such as contracts, marketing & branding, taxes, managing money, knowing your worth, and more.

This summer Erica is hosting the Business of the Music Business Summer Workshop for musicians who want to get organized and set themselves up for success.