Approach Notes For Bass

Approach Notes For Bass…

My previous two lessons introduced four variations of seventh chord arpeggio inversions—along with different varieties of sequence patterns to apply to the inversions. After studying this material, the next step is to apply approach notes to the inversion patterns. Approach notes add chromaticism, motion, and interest to the lines that you create. 

Exercise one employs a “double chromatic from above” approach to the four inversion patterns. Apply the double chromatic approach to the root of the chord and continue up the arpeggio by playing the 3rd, 5th, and seventh. Then apply the approach to the root once more and continue to the 3rd and 5th of the chord. Continue the pattern back down again. 

Follow the cycle by applying the approach notes to the first inversion (3rd of the chord) and continue with the remaining chord tones. 

Apply the approach notes to the second inversion (5th of the chord) and continue with the remaining chord tones. 

Apply the approach notes to the third inversion (7th of the chord) and continue with the remaining chord tones. 

Apply the approach notes to major 7th, minor 7th, dominant 7th, minor 7 b5, and diminished 7th arpeggio inversions in all twelve keys. Try practicing one chord type a week. Work on this information slowly in order to absorb all the material. Good luck!