Chapter 3: Advanced
Concepts for Soloing

Objective: To continue with concepts for soloing applying the Mixolydian, Diminished, Whole Tone and Altered Scales

This week we will finish our study of applying jazz licks by adding another twist. We will play the II-V-I chord progressions but we will substitute some different scales in place of the V progression.

Since the Mixolydian is based on the 5th scale degree it makes sense that we could use this mode as a substitute for the V chord progression. So in the key of C major we can use a Mixolydian jazz lick in place of the G7 chord during the song. Example #43-1 has one jazz lick that we can use. Learn to play it first and then when you are comfortable playing it at tempo try using it in a song that has II-V-I changes.

Next is the G# Diminished Scale which we are substituting for the G7. I have listed four different ones in Example #43-2 so learn all of them and then try substituting them for a G7 chord during a jazz composition.

Then we have the Whole Tone Scale which is based on playing successive intervals that are a major 2nd apart or based on the augmented chord which is root, major 3rd and raised 5th. Learn to play Example #43-3 and then substitute these whole tone jazz licks in place of the G7 chord during a song.

Finally we have an Altered Scale which can also be used as a substitute for the G7 chord. In Example #43-4 I've listed two jazz licks that work well in place of G7.

Each student should be at the point in their soloing now that they are not playing any notes that aren't connected harmonically to the key that they are in or aren't connected to the harmonic structure of the chord changes that they are playing. If you can still hear wrong notes that are a result of guessing and searching for something to play then review the examples and try to memorize a few licks. Then only play those licks until you develop the discipline that will become necessary in order for you to start soloing successfully. It's okay to experiment but you should be at a place in your music now that you can do it without constantly guessing!!

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