I think all of us have tried adding a bit of chromaticism into our solos in the attempt that will sound like Jazz or Fusion heroes but if you are like me my attempts are somewhat aimless and don’t follow any real theory. Tom Quayle, as you probably already know, is somewhat of a master when it comes to both guitar playing and music theory and in this lesson he introduces techniques that have been used for years by Jazz musicians to help make simple licks sound more sophisticated in order to take your improvisations to the next level.
Now just so you know although the concepts in this lesson are advanced they are all within the grasp of any guitarist who understands Modes and how scales are constructed. The techniques and methods covered are all fairly simple but having them explained with TAB examples and the theory behind them gives you that light bulb moment where you realise Tom has just opened up doors that can improve your improvisation massively with minimal effort.
The downloadable lesson, which is available for $25 from http://www.tomquayle.co.uk/lessons.html, includes a 16 page PDF filled with explanations, examples and finally 10 licks that illustrate all of the techniques covered. Also included is a high definition video where Tom plays through each of these 10 licks and then breaks them down with a dual camera view so you can see exactly what his left and right hands are doing while you stare at his lovely roasted Maple fretboard. Tom also includes a folder in the download containing all of the backing tracks which are 5 single chord vamps in various keys as well as a directory of mp3′s of the individual licks so you can concentrate on one at a time.
I’ve said this many times before but it is worth reiterating, Tom is an excellent teacher and phenomenal guitarist who somehow manages to keep thinking of new and engaging lessons that help make Jazz and Fusion less intimidating and covers approachable techniques. This lesson is aimed at players that have a basic knowledge of music theory, you will need to know how scales/chords are constructed.
For more of Tom Quayle’s lessons head over to his website here – http://www.tomquayle.co.uk/lessons.html
