Chord Melodies in First Position
Lesson 3.1 · Chord Melody
A great way to apply reading melodies in first position is to combine them with bass notes and chords to create chord melodies. You play the bass, chords, and melody simultaneously — a complete solo instrumental performance.
Follow the five steps to build an arrangement, then apply them to the chord melody stems. Tap a step number to mark it done.
Play the Melody
Learn the melody by practicing both the pitches and rhythm while keeping a steady beat.
Add a Bass Note
Play the root of each chord as it changes to create a solid bass foundation, and let these notes ring beneath the melody.
Add In the Chord
Play the chord tones along with the bass underneath the melody, keeping it simple by using four or fewer notes.
Add Bass Rhythm
Add a repeated rhythmic pattern to the bass note to create a bass line, adding motion and drive to the arrangement.
Finishing Touches
Complete your arrangement by adding the other chord tones in a repeated pattern for additional texture and depth.
Apply it to the stems
Open the stems, then work each example into a full chord melody.
Example #2
The melody of this line outlines notes in the chord shape. Use the partial F chord shape (top four strings only) to make it easy to play.
Example #3
There is a considerable amount of space in the second half of this melody. Fill this space with a moving bass line or chordal part.
Example #4
The range of this melody shifts from high to low. Alter your chord shapes to address these changes in the second half.
Example #5
Use the Freddie Greene style chord shape for the F#m7 chord in this example.
