Chords interacting with scales to create fluid patterns for use in both single note improvisation and chordal playing. By creating an understand that combines vertical and horizontal motion, scale fragments that are anchored in chordal awareness can change the way a player can perceive the areas of the guitar, opening new pathways in playing.
This course begins with triads, focusing on melodically connecting chords through simple progressions. The exercises progress in difficulty throughout the course as you build the technique and understanding to move beyond a basic understanding of triads. The second half of the course focuses on ways to use the triad ideas presented earlier in the course to create 7th chord ideas. By playing a triad over a different root note than the name of the triad, for example a G major triad over the note E, you can create 7th chords while still using familiar triad shapes. In the case of G major triad over E, that makes an E minor 7 chord. This concept is explored more in depth in the second half of the course.
This course is for those who have a basic understanding of chords and scales, and who are ready to put some time in to level up their understanding of the fretboard. If you are looking for new ways to derive ideas for single note solos, chord solos, or rhythm playing; if you’d like to have a more fluid ability to move between shapes and understand the patterns of guitar on a deeper level, then this course could be a transformative experience for your playing.
There will be a lot of work involved, as there always is with growth, but I think this is worth the time and effort. I’ve tried to condense the most effective ideas that I’ve learned and incorporated into my playing over the years into this course. I want you to get results and to be able to see the instrument in a new way.
By combining varied rhythms throughout the exercises and lessons in the course, it is also an intensive in rhythms and developing rhythmic understanding and vocabulary. There is a continued stress on time feel throughout and this element will help you incorporate new shapes and ideas in a musical and immediately useful way.