Theory Masterclass
Discussion/Demonstration of the Modes of the Melodic Minor Over Dominant Chords
“...the melodic minor! Really enjoyed the video which repays repeated viewings. I can now visualise and hear how different melodic minor shapes lock onto the dominant chord and can…”
About this masterclass
In this informal conversation, John Stowell and fellow guitarist Kevin Kerick demonstrate their different but complementary approaches to the four modes of the melodic minor scale that introduce tensions over a dominant chord. Hearing two players describe the same harmonic information in their own languages gives you several hands-on ways into altered dominant sounds.
What's covered
- The four melodic minor modes that generate tensions over a dominant chord, and how each player learned and practices them
- Common substitutions explained from the V chord: melodic minor a step down from the V, a step up, and the conventional melodic minor of the target key
- Using melodic minor chords as dominant chords
- Tension and resolution in a II-V-I setting, plus V-I and secondary dominant applications
- Applying these sounds over a standard or a blues
The class runs 34 minutes and includes a 39-page PDF of articles written by John. By the end, you'll have practical tools for developing and expanding your altered dominant vocabulary.
Lessons in this masterclass
Lessons
- 1Discussion/Demonstration of the Modes of the Melodic Minor Over Dominant Chords Full Class + Download34m 30s
Reviews & Ratings
"Finally I get..."
...the melodic minor! Really enjoyed the video which repays repeated viewings. I can now visualise and hear how different melodic minor shapes lock onto the dominant chord and can be mixed with dominant and major arpeggios to bring out varying amounts of tension. The articles are useful too, although the lesson would be enhanced by a 1 page worksheet referring to the material covered in the video. Still excellent value overall though.
Great discussion. Too short for such a rich topic as melodic minor. Also, more examples from actual songs would help e.g. the Ellington illustration greatly clarified what was being discussed. Thanks to you both.
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