Applying Melodic Content: Exercise 2 Progression based on the changes to “All The Things You Are” The 2nd melodic pattern I will introduce is based on the scale degree pattern 1, 3, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. If we are treating this line to play over a C Major 7 chord and by using the C Ionian scale it will look like this.

Now all you have to do is understand the key you are in then adjust the pattern to fit over the Chord in question. For example if we were playing this pattern over a IVmaj7 we would raise the 4th degree up a half step to #4. In the progression we are playing over the 1st chord is an F-7, which we analyzed as VI-7. You would adjust the notes to fit in the Key of Ab Major. The line will look like this.

When we reach the Chord V7/VI we can use 16th notes to play the tension b9 and #9. It will look like this.

You will notice the pattern starts with the Arpeggio of the Chord in question then approaches the 3rd degree with a diatonic passing tone in-between.

 

From the 3rd degree we are approaching the Root with a diatonic passing tone in-between. Practice this exercise from a slow tempo up to a more challenging one. Play through the progression 3 times without stopping using different areas of the instrument. Also it’s important to work out some different fingering patterns for each chord. When the tempos get fast and the progressions get more intense it will really help your fluidity if you are adapting your fingering patterns to make your transitions smoother. I want you to work out the correct pattern to play over this progression using your knowledge from the Analysis lessons. It’s easy for me to give you all the answers but if you want to develop and improve you must start figuring out some of this stuff for yourself. I will always provide the correct instructions along with a video demonstrating so between these things you should have enough to be able to figure this out. I’m always available in the forum for any questions.