“Georgia” Comping & Improvisation
In this lesson we explore ballad performances in a trio format for the classic tune “Georgia On My Mind” written by the great Ray Charles.
We demonstrate some of the important techniques and principles when playing a ballad in a trio format ie. with a bass player and drummer present.
Extremely Useful Left Hand Voicing
In this tutorial we cover an extremely useful left hand voicing that should be learnt and memorised in all 12 keys. This particular voicing can be used for several different chords. In this tutorial we use the voicing over the minor 7b5 chords in the harmony.
For more information on this extremely versatile voicing, see the longer explanation in the PDF supporting materials.
Lesson Downloads
-
Important Left Hand Voicing File Type: pdf
Related Lessons
When we play 10th intervals in our left hand it creates a strong foundation which frees up the right hand for melodic decoration.
The A Section of the tune repeats 3 times and so we can use passing chords to add interest to otherwise identical harmonic passages.
We examine the slight variations on the A Sections and we will then learn how to connect the A & B Sections together using turnarounds.
Practice Tips
-
When 8th notes are swinging, you see symbol S-8. if there's no symbol, 8th notes are straight.
-
Notice that throughout the performance the voicings are divided between right and left hand.
-
When the melody of the song has a break, fill in with short improvised fills and phrases as demonstrated in the video.
-
Sometimes when you need thicker sound, it's ok to double the chord tones.
-
Remember to take musical breaks between busy improvised phrases.
