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Have you ever wondered how some players are able to play some riffs and have it sound “off” for a second and then come back into the original sound?
We are going to study this closely so that you can have more variety in your improvisations and melodies.
First, learn this position for the C major scale:
Now that you know the scale, we’re going to add one note to it. This note is going to be Ab. If you memorized the C major scale then you should have no problem visualizing the Ab in this position.
We are now going to improvise thinking of the C major scale and every once in a while, you’re going to play the Ab. On a II-V-I in C this might sound a bit “off”. But it works because quite honestly, all notes will work on any progression at any given time. The main difference is: 1) Length of the note 2) how you’re using the note.
If you only play the Ab on a progression with these chords: It sounds quite horrible. But if you play it like a passing tone, then it becomes a pleasurable sound and it might give the sound of a jazzier or “exotic” sound.
Here are some examples:
When you start getting comfortable adding the Ab, add another note to the mix. Let’s say a C#. Keep in mind your C major scale as “home”. Use the added notes as passing notes or to add tension in your playing. Concentrate in making melodies vs. a lot of random notes.
The key to understanding your instrument better is to experiment, practice, and create. Apply what you learn, Expand on your ideas, and practice what you learn so that you don’t have limitations in expressing yourself through music!
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