Overview: Paul “Bad Basil” Claxton has shared his expertise in music through engaging and informative masterclasses. Known for his collaborations, he has played with jazz and R&B bands such as Nitro, The Outta Hand Jive Band, and the U of W Downtown Jazz Band.

His ongoing commitment to the genre is highlighted by his work with Ashes and Dreams, a band still thriving with about seven studio albums to their name.

Verdict: Inkwell Publishing recently published Claxton’s compact guide Top Tip Masterclass Pro Keyboards in which he shares his wealth of knowledge, teaches technique, offers tips, and provides education to longtime players and newbies.

With over four decades of performing, songwriting and production experience, Paul Claxton has built a diverse musical career spanning jazz, Soul, R&B, Funk and Pop.

“Playing keyboards whether ancient or modern gives you an overall artistic vision in music,” he said. “Welcome my Ebony and Ivory Tickling new friends, there is always room for you.”

Now, lest you believe this is an actual full-sized book, please know from the off that it is actually a small, pocket-sized masterclass in which the veteran musician - and currently a regular collaborator with Gabriel Mark Hasselbach and the Hudson Street Orchestra - shares his wealth of knowledge, teaches technique, offers tips, and provides education to longtime players and newbies.

Containing ten chapters - such as Master the Basics, Developing Your A Pop Sound, Studio Savvy and amongst other both Song Writing and Networking & Gigging - the book (which measures 3”x4”) opens on a quick Intro from the Top Tip Founders, before Paul explains that getting rejected or criticized while performing may well feel like a massive punch to the gut, but it’s part of the odyssey to connect with an audience who may be scrolling on their phones.

Chock full of genuine inspiration - such as “Lifelong bands are forged making music together. Playing pop keyboards is a ticket to wild unknown adventures. Fingers unlock your inner genius, giving you the kind of purpose you thought only came from yoga or winning a reality show” - he also tells us to Nurture your own love for music. Take breaks, have fun and fool around!, that New sounds rely heavily on synthesizers. Learn how to find, organize or create patches to get iconic leads, lush pads and funky bass lines, and amongst others, that Pop and Jazz are all about rhythm. Timing. So play with a metronome as syncopation, and groove lock you in with the drummer and bassist (as your keyboard is part of the rhythm section).

About the Musician - Claxton has produced albums for artists like Eva Schubert and Cole Skye, and he is currently collaborating on a project with Jobé. His impressive network includes working alongside notable musicians such as Kim Nishikawara, Lisa Saunders, Dutch Robinson, and his original band, Trisektor Projekt, with Shael Wrinch and James Zickmantel.

Furthermore, Claxton’s talent caught the attention of Geffen Music in LA, where he was signed briefly by Jaymes Foster, sister of renowned producer David Foster. His extensive experience and contributions to the music scene enrich his teaching, offering students a wealth of practical insights and techniques.

Official Top Tip Masterclass - Jazz Trumpet Purchase Link