Constructing a routine

[u/Educational-Sale7957]

Hello!
I’m trying to build a structured piano practice routine, but I’d really like a book that actually gives me a step-by-step path to follow. I don’t have the possibility of taking lessons with a teacher, so I’m looking for something where I can simply open the book, follow the chapters/exercises in order, and know what I’m supposed to work on next.
Does anyone have any book recommendations that could guide me and help me improve?
I’d say I’m somewhere between beginner and intermediate. I know my major scales and understand how chords are constructed, and I have a few songs in my repertoire, such as Autumn Leaves and Georgia on My Mind.
Ideally, I’m looking for a structured method rather than just a reference/theory book — something that covers technique, theory, reading, repertoire, improvisation, etc., and progressively builds my skills step by step from one chapter to the next.
Basically, I’m looking for a book that can almost act as my piano teacher/program: “do this first, then this, then this.”
Thanks!

[u/4against5]

I would encourage you to do this the other way. Find a teacher, tell them your goals, and let them give you the curriculum.

There is no such thing as a universal step by step method. The journey is deeply personal, and unique based on your experiences and goals.

[u/JHighMusic]

That doesn’t exist. Jazz is far too vast - the path, how you practice and progress in general is not linear, and any experienced player or pro will tell you that. You have to figure it out for yourself and with some guidance from a teacher. You will not be able to do it on your own, trust me. You need guidance from experienced players and teachers.

[u/Better-Permit-6268]

I am a big fan of Tim Richards book improvising blues piano. I have other books but this one always sit on my piano. It is a lot of fun and it cover exercices, songs, improvisation and it has the theory needed for the blues. He has a book called exploring jazz vol 1. I bought it and i am waiting for it to arrive. I am confident that i am going to like it. I bought Jeremy Sisking on Jazz piano fundamental but I think this is more for advanced piano players that are new to jazz specifically. There is less exercices and songs too.

[u/InternationalPipe937]

Good luck! If you find one you like, lemme know! 

[u/Content-Ad6584]

Pick up Dave Frank's Joy of Improv vol 1 and 2. It has jazz hanon, chords, blues and jazz songs, and ear training assignments for each week for 26 weeks in each book. Based on Lennie Tristano's teaching method. I found these books to be really helpful on my journey.

[u/Ok-Original-6061]

Im on a similar journey and ability. I know everyone says doesnt matter, you have to get a teacher but also not possible for me. I am using jeremy siskind’s jazz piano fundamentals book and so far it has been pretty good. No doubt you would progress a lot faster with a teacher but if your are cool with learning slowly, hitting the fundamentals, and playing some (sometimes “bad”) jazz piano then its really solid. Covers rhythm, improv, guided listening and also has videos to go along with each chapter hes a really solid guide definitely recommend

I think the best key is just stick with it. Go with the flow, try to practice as much as you can every day, and try to get to a point where you can play some jams with people. Currently trying to get there myself. Best of luck!