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4th Chords and Quartal Harmony

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

As I have discussed in previous posts, traditional harmony/theory constructs chords in intervals of a third. There is another type of chord construction that is quite common in jazz, called “quartal harmony” or sometimes better known as “4th chords.” Quartal harmony is most commonly associated with the modal jazz of the late 1950′s and 60′s. [...]

What Are “Coltrane Changes”?

Monday, June 28, 2010

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Welcome to what is, perhaps, the hardest aspect of jazz improvisation; what has made many a musician cower in the corner while others step up to the plate, knock back massive grand slams, and take home the hottest girl in the club (hopefully not the girl that came in with the guy now cowering in [...]

The Coltrane Effect

Friday, May 21, 2010

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I think it is safe to say that John Coltrane, (in)arguably the greatest jazz tenor saxophonist ever, has had the most profound effect and influence on guitarists for someone who is not a guitarist himself. One would be hard-pressed to find a jazz or fusion guitarist who does not list Trane as an influence. His [...]

The Jazz Theory Book by Mark Levine

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

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Whenever you get into a new hobby, line of work, or general area of interest, there is always one book or resource of information that people in those circles dub “The Bible.” “Oh, you must get this book!” “This is the only book you’re going to need!” “Everyone usually recommends you start here first.” It’s [...]

Today is “Break Out Of Your Rut” Day

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

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On the way into work this morning (yes, I have a day job *sigh*) I started thinking about how we quite often let the daily routine take over and somewhat mindlessly go through the motions without properly exercising our brains. Every day on the train I see the same faces reading the same newspapers, having [...]