Category: The Jazzy stuff (but good for every style!)

Are you an aspiring jazz or funk guitarist looking to level up your playing? If so, I’ve got a simple yet powerful trick that will revolutionize the way you approach chords and chord sequences. Say hello to the magic of Dorian mode! In this blog post, we’ll delve into this concept and show you how to apply it to elevate your jazz and funk guitar game.

What is Dorian Mode and Why Does it Matter?

The Dorian mode is one of the seven modes derived from the major scale. It is characterized by a minor scale with a natural sixth. When applied to jazz and funk playing, using the Dorian mode of each key can make your improvisations and chord progressions smoother and more cohesive.

Let’s Break it Down: The Dorian Mode in Action

To better illustrate the concept, let’s consider the harmonized scale in the key of C major. The chords are as follows: C major 7, D minor 7, E minor 7, F major 7, G dominant 7, A minor 7, and B half-diminished.

Now, here comes the magic. Instead of dwelling on complex theories, concentrate on playing the Dorian phrase over each chord. For instance, when you encounter the D minor 7 chord, think D Dorian. When you encounter the G dominant 7 chord, think D Dorian. It’s as simple as that!

Infinite Improvisation: Connecting the Dots

To truly internalize this technique, practice what I like to call “infinite improvisation.” This exercise involves connecting short musical ideas or patterns together to create a seamless and continuous flow of music. Think of it as your canvas for spontaneous expression.

Start with small phrases, like a classic Dorian lick, and build upon them. Gradually add variations and combine different patterns to explore the full potential of the Dorian mode. Remember, this exercise is not about being overly creative; it’s about building your knowledge of the fretboard in the jazz and funk style.

Applying the Dorian Trick to Any Chord Progression

Once you’ve mastered the infinite improvisation exercise, you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly you can apply the Dorian trick to any chord progression. Whether it’s a classic jazz 1-6-2-5 progression or a funky 1-4-5 pattern, the Dorian mode will guide your way.

For instance, if you encounter a Bb7 chord (the 5th chord) in the key of C major, think F Dorian. If you find yourself playing an A minor chord (the 6th chord), think A Dorian. The possibilities are endless, and your guitar playing will soar to new heights.

Closing Thoughts

In conclusion, the Dorian mode is a valuable tool for jazz and funk guitarists seeking to simplify their playing and enhance their improvisational skills. By concentrating on the Dorian phrase of each key and mastering the infinite improvisation exercise, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the fretboard and unlock a world of musical possibilities.

So, start experimenting with the Dorian mode in your playing today. As you become more comfortable with it, you’ll find yourself effortlessly navigating complex chord progressions and unleashing your inner jazz and funk player. Happy playing!

Hey there, fellow musicians! Today, I’m excited to delve into the fascinating world of diminished harmony, exploring both arpeggios and chords. Whether you’re a seasoned player looking to deepen your knowledge or a beginner eager to expand your repertoire, this guide has something for everyone.

Let’s start by understanding the essence of diminished harmony. It’s based on symmetrical scales and arpeggios that repeat the same interval, specifically the minor third, from a starting note. This unique characteristic is what sets it apart and forms the foundation for its distinctive sound.

When tackling diminished arpeggios and chords, I like to visualize them in blocks rather than traditional roots. For instance, instead of viewing a C major chord from a root perspective, we approach it as a block containing C, E-flat, G-flat, and A. This approach allows for easier inversions and a better grasp of the harmonic structure.

To get you started, let’s explore a basic diminished arpeggio shape on a single string. Starting from C, we move in minor thirds (three frets) to create the following sequence: C, E-flat, D-flat, and A, ultimately ending back at a higher octave of C. This pattern applies to other starting notes as well, like D-flat (D-flat, E, G, and B-flat) and E-flat (E-flat, G-flat, A, and C). Notice that the inversions are symmetrical, making the sound consistent regardless of the starting note.

Now, let’s dive into some useful shapes for diminished chords and arpeggios. For chords, a common shape with the root on the A string includes notes E-flat, G-flat, and A. By moving this shape across the fretboard, we can easily form different diminished chords, such as F-sharp or C diminished, maintaining the same inversions.

Another common shape, with the root on the E string, contains notes C, E-flat, G-flat, and B. This shape is prevalent in jazz and is widely used by guitarists like Joe Pass and Wes Montgomery.

When it comes to arpeggios, a beginner-friendly pattern involves the sequence C, E-flat, G-flat, and A. Practice this sequence diligently to build a solid foundation. Advanced players often incorporate picking techniques, such as alternate picking or economy picking, to enhance the fluidity of their arpeggio playing.

To challenge yourself further, experiment with shapes in position. By practicing these patterns in minor thirds, you’ll gain versatility and agility across the fretboard. Remember, these shapes are just starting points; feel free to explore and personalize them to suit your style.

To wrap up, let’s revisit a helpful exercise to internalize these concepts. Take three shapes of a diminished chord and move them up the fretboard. This exercise will assist you in discovering the various diminished shapes hidden within this system of four notes.

A short guitar lesson about a useful bebop lick and some ideas on how to transpose it.