Clark JM Jazz Mandolin
Search
Tips & Tricks Mel Bay Mandolin Sessions
Spotlight

JM_Ad_GiJM.jpg

JM_Ad_JLSmith.jpg

JM_Ad_Clark2.jpg

Manndolins.jpg

JM_Ad_Sorensen.jpg

JM_Ad_Giroaurd.jpg

JM_Ad_MandolinCafe.jpg

Sage Wisdom

"Good improvisation communicates harmonic progression melodically. Effective melodies manipulate harmonic content through the use of guide tones and preparatory gravity notes, masterfully woven in systematic tension, release, and transparent harmonic definition."



« Take three | Main | Jouer Avec »

June 20, 2006 | August Watters Four Note Patterns

From the desk of Berklee Professor of Ear Training, August Watters, a free page of materials for internalizing theory principles. We are especially fond of his "Four Note Patterns" although there is plenty of juicy stuff on his site.

In drilling scales, there comes a point when you need to abandon the step-by-step consecutive construction of the basic scale, 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1, etc. as you practice. Think about it, when was the last time you heard improvisation and noted to yourself, "Hmm, terrific two-octave G scale, there."

A scale run is simply not "real-world" music, and varying the patterns you use to conquer scales, like 1 3 2 4 3 5 4 6, etc., will get you out of the rut of sounding like you're just blowing scales. Read these variations and incorporate this approach to practicing scales. You'll inject new life and creativity into your soloing, as well as gain better insight into fretboard structure and note relationships.

Check out the scale pattern primer: Four Note Patterns.

August Watters Free Music Theory Materials

Posted by Ted at June 20, 2006 6:06 AM


Bookmark and Share


QuickNav:   Home | Book | Webtracks | Tips | Store | Contact
Feeds: Tips & Tricks | What's New
© 2005-2018 JazzMando.com. All rights reserved.


Disclaimer: In the 'Information Age' of the 21st Century, any fool with a computer, a modem, and an idea can become a self-professed 'expert." This site does not come equipped with 'discernment.'



Site designed and hosted by No Hassle Design, Development, & Hosting

Tips & Tricks - Listen & LearnMel Bay Mandolin Sessions Articles- check it out!