Jazz Modulation

bassman80189 · Posted: Tue Aug 12, 2003 1:32 pm Post subject: Jazz Modulation

What do you guys think about modulating from the I to the V chord while walking (usually on upright)? I generally use the II to it's 5 (the VI or VII) and than slide down to the V. Does anyone have any tips on learn jazz theory like this. I'm learning the different scale modes (Dorian, Mixolydian, etc.) but it's hard to apply. Jazz is incredibly hard! At least it's easier than jazz drumming.

Ninestring · Posted: Sun Sep 07, 2003 1:45 pm Post subject:

Don't think in terms of hard or easy.

it's a language-

Major tonality is based on a major scale.

when you start the major scale on the second degree and end on the second degree you are now playing a mode, Dorian,
If you do the same with the 3rd degree and end on the third degree ,you are playing a Phrygian mode.

starting and ending on the 4th degree is Lydian
starting and ending on the 5th is mixolydian
starting and ending on the 6th is Aeolian or Natural minor
starting and ending on the 7th is Locrian

by playing the major scale with phrygian and mixoldian modes on top ,you are creating Diatonic triads.

If you play the locrian mode on top of those three ,you are now creating the four part chords for any key.

Ex. in C: Cmaj 7 -Dmi7-Emi7-Fmaj7-G7-Ami7-B diminished 7-C maj 7

The "jazz theory" begins here. as you move into 5 ,6 and 7 part chords ,you are creating 9th,11 and 13 chords. The other aspect is the three forms of minor scales ,their modes and stacking the modes to create 5,6 and seven part chords in minor.

This is where the altered dominant chords come from.(see my other Topic s"Applied Theory" and "Altered Dominant chord")

When you walk through "jazz changes" you have to think about the iimi7 to V9-I major7 or iimi7 b5-V7 flat or raised 9 ,+ 11 ,13 etc. if you see dmi7 (b5) followed by G7 (b9) you will be playing F melodic minor against the dmi7(b5) and one possiblity, G dominant 8 note scale against the G7 (9).

So you need to know the 9 chord families ,119 chord progressions ,the twent or so scales and modes that play horizontally through the vertical chord stack and develope a combination of scale wise ,arpeggio and chord outline walking patterns.

You have to listen to lots of jazz BUT you need to know the above info so you can know how to play what you hear right away. Email me for more info.
_________________
Garry Goodman
http://garrygoodman.com
40 years playing bass guitar