The exploration of Neil Olmstead's " Solo Jazz Piano: The Linear Approach

Utilizes "guide-tone lines" and non-chord tones to create musical conversation.

Book overview. (Berklee Guide). Learn to improvise using the techniques pioneered by piano greats Lenny Tristano and Dave McKenna.

: You can purchase the 2nd Edition directly, which includes unique codes for online audio access.

Reviewers and peers at Berklee Online highlight that Olmstead’s approach is less "abstract" than typical jazz texts. Instead of endless lists of scales, it focuses on the "art of the linear," teaching pianists how to use lead sheets as a springboard for their own unique musical ideas.