We had an incredible session during our September Bebop Scale Bootcamp, where we dove into some of the most essential bebop devices to get your improvisation sounding authentic and swinging. One of the standout lines we covered was from my notes with David Baker—a classic ii-V line that many of you have probably heard or even played before. It’s a line that, over the years, has become one of the most popular bebop phrases, and for good reason.
Step 1: Start in C Major
For those who attended, you’ll remember the importance of starting in C major to really lock down the sound of the line before moving it through other keys. Play the ii-V (Dm7 to G7) and focus on articulating the chromatic passing tones with precision.
Step 2: Play It in Position
When practicing these lines, play them in a fixed position on the neck. This way, you’re not just running through patterns—you’re engaging your ear and thinking about every note you’re playing. By doing this, you’ll better understand the harmonic context of each note within the ii-V progression and gain more control over your phrasing.
Step 3: Move It Through Six Keys
Once you’ve nailed it in C major, take the next step—practice it in six other keys. Moving the line through different keys while staying in position will challenge you to visualize the fretboard more clearly and help lock in these bebop sounds in various harmonic contexts.
October Bebop Scale Bootcamp Is Coming Up!
Don’t forget, our next Bebop Scale Bootcamp is just around the corner on October 15th. If you want to continue building your bebop vocabulary and refining your technique, be sure to sign up before the early bird registration ends!
Until then, happy picking!
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