G Blues
Post date: Feb 11, 2011 4:09:04 PM
G Blues Small Group Performances
Step 1: Learn the form of the G Blues
G7 C7 G7 (walk)
C7 G7 (walk)
D7 C7 G7 turn-around
Practice this with the practice track (available in different tempos for download on the class website)
Step 2: Learn the G Major Pentatonic Scale. (major scale w/o 4 or 7)
G A B D E G A B D E G
Step 3: Learn to improvise using the G Major Pentatonic Scale.
- 1 bar call & response
- 2 bar call & response
- 4 bar call & response
- 12 bar solo
Experiment with the four core improvisational elements:
- Registeral variety
- Note density
- Volume (dynamics)
- Silence
Step 4: Write a 12 bar blues solo using the G Major Pentatonic Scale. This can be written in tab, notation, or in your head, but should be consistent (repeatable).
Step 5: Divide into small groups and define a form for your performance of the G Blues. Practice together. Write this out and turn it in. Due Friday 2/25
Sample:
Step Player 1 Player 2 Player 3
1 Chords Chords Chords
2 Solo Chords Chords
3 Chords Solo Chords
4 Chords Chords Solo
5 Trade 2’s Trade 2’s Chords
6 Chords Chords Chords
Step 6: Perform for the class in small groups. Week of 2/28.
Performances will be graded on:
- Ability to play the chords correctly 10 points
- Ability to play the chords in rhythm (swung) 10 points
- Ability to play a solo using the G pentatonic scale 10 points
- Ability to play together following the form 10 points
- Overall musical effect 10 points
50 points possible
Practice tracks are attached below (scroll down)
