Lesson Eight

Melodic Chord Phrases

With the help of a few chord voicings/inversions it is possible to create "chord phrases" which will add melodic dialogue to your comping, or fatten-up any single-note solo. To avoid blind memorization, it is essential to grasp the system which produces these chord voicings- namely "inversion".

Example one shows four Gm7 voicings on the upper stringset. The first is a root position chord, which means that the root (G) is the lowest note. The second is a "first inversion" chord, which means that the b3 (Bb) is the lowest note. The third is a "second inversion" chord, which means that the 5th (D) is the lowest note. Finally, the fourth chord is in "third inversion", which means that the b7 (F) is the lowest note. Be sure to take these inversions through all keys so you can use them in all situations.

Example 1

Example two shows four D7b9 voicings. Notice there is no root (D) in any of these chords, it has been replaced with the b9 (Eb). D7 is the fifth of Gm7 and can be used to "connect" the Gm7 voicings you learned in example one. The D7b9 shapes are symmetrical and repeat every three frets.

Example 2

Example three shows the Gmi7 voicings being "connected" by the D7b9 voicings. To maximize your technical potential, try to keep your left wrist on a fairly even plane as you switch chords. Any radical wrist turning will slow you down considerably.

Example 3

Example four shows two popular C7 chords on the same stringset.

Example 4

Example five shows four voicings which can be used for Fma7. The Ma9 and 6/9 chords add colour to the basic ma7 sound. We now have all we need to play II-V-I progressions using these inversions. In the key of F, Gm7 is the II chord. C7 is the V chord, and Fma7 is the I chord. The D7b9 voicings will be used to connect the II chord inversions, and extend the life of the phrases.

Example 5

Example 6 shows a II-V-I "chord phrase" using all of the elements we've discussed.

Example 6 Audio Clip (156K au)

Example 7 is a longer phrase with a "chromatic passing chord" (Abm7) thrown in for good measure. Create your own "pet phrases" in all keys to punctuate your single-note solos or to add excitement to your comping. Enjoy!

Example 7 Audio Clip (200K au)

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