Applying Voice Leading Step-by-Step (Misty Example)

Chord MelodyOffice Hour
Written By June

What was the question?

Ravi asked a practical application question: "I understand guide tones and 3rds, but how do I apply this to every tune I am learning step by step?"
[39:58]

The core idea (in plain English)

You cannot treat a tune as a series of isolated scales. You must find the logic inside the tune itself. The melody combined with the harmony often dictates the voice leading for you. For example, in Misty, the melody line over the first few chords naturally suggests the movement of the upper structures.
[39:58]

Fretboard breakdown (what to play)

  • Melody is King: Harmonize the melody note with the chord. For Misty (key of Eb), looking at the G minor to C7 movement, the melody often highlights the 3rd or 7th. [42:19]

  • Bebop Strategy: Look at how Charlie Parker handled these transitions. He would often target the 3rd of the dominant chord and use a flat-9 trill to lead into the next 3rd. [42:19]

  • Connect the Dots: Don't ask "which scale fits here?" Ask "how does this melody note move to the next melody note through the chord tones?"

Common mistake to avoid

Avoid calculating scales for every measure (e.g., "This bar is Mixolydian, previous bar was Dorian"). This disconnects your playing. Instead, look for the linear connection between the bars. [46:18]

A 10-minute practice assignment

Take the first 4 bars of a ballad you are working on. Identify the melody notes. Play only the Guide Tones (3rd and 7th) under the melody. See if you can move the guide tones smoothly (half-steps or whole steps) to the next chord while sustaining the melody. [44:04]

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June
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