Classically trained pianist to Jazz pianist

I just have a question: I went to a music camp last summer where they had no one to be the pianist in the rhythym section in the jazz band. So I got enlisted and i could sight read the notes fine. But when it came to written chords, I had no idea. Also on the comping, since it was my first time playing jazz (I've always just played classical music), I had no idea what to do. I tried to get into my jazz band at school, but they wouldn't let me in unless I was also in the regular band. I am in chorus, and find singing to be a much more interesting time than marching (concert band is actually very good, but still). Do any of you have any suggestions on how to get better, or even start begining to read chords? I'm not sure whether I'll be asked to play in the jazz band or not, but even if that's not the case, I figure knowing this stuff is always a good skill. Thanks!

... Do any of you have any suggestions on how to get better, or even start begining to read chords? ...I figure knowing this stuff is always a good skill. Thanks!

• Practice
  
• Listen more (find the great "compers" and cop their style: Red Garland, McCoy Tyner, Wynton Kelly)
  
• Read this book: The Jazz Piano Book (Mark Levine)
  

• Read this book: The Jazz Piano Book (Mark Levine)
  

Hey! I have that book.

Get a Fakebook and practice reading the chords in it. The Mark Levine is a solid book indeed.

Good luck! =)

• Read this book: The Jazz Piano Book (Mark Levine)
  

Thanks, i think i'll look into that book. and also the first two points.

And i just talked to the Jazz director of a nearby college where I take lessons and he reccomended that book when I asked him if there was any thing i could do to get better. He's the same guy who directed Jazz the band i was in at the music camp. Looks like it's a good book!