Hi
The last time we discussed improvisation we explored the minor sound - this time around we're going to take a look at the dominant sound. Before diggin' in let's map out the "F" dominant sound using a scale format and an apreggio format:
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As you can see, the dominant sound consists of seven notes (as is the case with all musical sounds - major, minor, half diminished, diminished). The scale format uses a sequential note order (1 2 3 4 5 6 7) while the arpeggio format uses an every other note order (1 3 5 7 9 11 13). All melodies (composed or improvised) are using one of these two formats. Let me say that again - all melodies (composed or improvised) are using one of these two formats. Give this fact some thought and let it sink in - it's so important to truly know this musical reality and have the capability of recognizing these formats in the music you play or create. The melodic motif we're going to play today for improvisation development uses the arpeggio format with descending motion: | |
As a side note, when developing jazz language (improvisational skills) for a specific sound, I always split the sound into four fragments and then practice each fragment isolated. As you can see in the diagram below, each fragment consists of four notes. Can you identify which fragment our "F" dominant motif above is using? | |
Our descending "F" dominant motif we're playing today is an improvisational line that originates from the 4th fragment which focuses on the 7th, 9th, 11th, and 13th (Charlie Parker described this region of the sound as "playing above the changes"). It's a lush region of the sound which you'll enjoy playing and hearing - be sure to watch my video to help you nail down the proper articulation, feel, and time of this classic line.
Finally, once you can play this improvisational motif for "F" Dominant, take time to discover, learn, and play the line for the remaining 11 dominant chords.
Enjoy learning/mastering this traditional jazz improvisation pattern!
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P.S. I highly recommend using an application like iReal Pro or software like Band In A Box when practicing. Hearing and Feeling a skill within a musical context makes all the difference in the world - it expedites your musical development. | |
