degrees that are included .
ASSIGNMENT I ’ ve gone ahead and put together some very basic improvised melodies for each scale example that you can start off playing . Once you ’ re comfortable with the shapes on your fingerboard , start improvising your own ideas so you can better internalize the unique phrasing elements that each scale inspires .
For each of the following examples , set up a backing track for an A minor 7 chord , or record yourself playing a sustained A minor 7 chord using your bass or a keyboard . This will allow you to hear the unique character of each individual scale on top of the chord .
Let ’ s start with the familiar A minor pentatonic scale used over the A minor 7 chord . Check out EXAMPLE 1 and feel free to use whatever tempo is comfortable for you .
Now let ’ s listen to the B minor pentatonic scale used over the same A minor 7 chord . Notice how the character of the lines changes . It introduces a little more tension because of the specific intervals used . See EXAMPLE 2 .
Finally , let ’ s listen to the E minor pentatonic scale used over the A minor 7 chord . Again , pay close attention to the unique sound of this idea . It will not have as much tension implied as the B minor pentatonic scale , but it will sound more open and embellished . SEE EXAMPLE 3 .
Practice each of these ideas individually for a while , using your own lines and improvised phrases . Once you feel comfortable with each individual pentatonic scale , then try blending two of them together at a time , cascading through each scale choice as a series of individually connected phrases . That ’ s when you will discover some really creative approaches to making your lines sound much more sophisticated and interesting . Until next time , happy shedding !
Adam Nitti Nashville-based Adam Nitti balances his roles as a solo artist , sideman , and educator . He has filled the bass chair for Kenny Loggins , Carrie Underwood , Dave Weckl Band , Michael McDonald , Susan Tedeschi , Steven Curtis Chapman , Mike Stern , Brent Mason , Wayne Krantz , and Christopher Cross , while also releasing five solo CDs to date . As a Nashville session bassist he has played on multiple Grammywinning and Grammy-nominated albums , and is also the founder of ...
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EXAMPLE 1
EXAMPLE 2
EXAMPLE 3