Re: [Harp-L] Progression

[Bob Cohen <bob@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

On Oct 6, 2013, at 8:55 PM, Tony Stephens <tnysteph@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:

> The question song is in the Key of C, playing in 2nd do you have to start on the G, draw 2 or blow 3?
> Man so much to learn.

No you don't. Here's a very simplified explanation which does not account for types of scales. The 2 draw is the root note of the G scale (G A B C D E F# G). The chord changes in a standard 12-bar blues uses the following structure I IV V. For the key of G that's  I = G; IV = C; V = D. So the 2 draw is the root note for the I chord, in this case G.

To get a feel for the chord changes people often shoot for hitting the root or the "named" note of each chord on the change. Once you have that down, you are free to move about the cabin, Once you feel comfortable, experiment with shooting for the 3rd, 5th or 7th notes on the changes to harmonize with the bass, which will likely be hitting the root notes. Then you're on your way.

FYI, blues most often employs 7th chords which means the 7th note if flatted. E.g., the G7 chord is spelled G A B C D E _F_ G as it happens a standard tuned diatonic gives the 7th chord scale naturally when starting from the 2 draw. In fact, you have to overblow to get the missing major scale note. This is a happy accident and among the reasons why blues music favors 2nd position. And also why it's much easier to improvise on the I chord. The IV and the V require more precise bending to get all the notes.

> I went to an open mic. Played on 3 songs. I just added licks. I did not think of the progression, just played. I was told by some guitar players that it sounded good. I hope so & think so.


Welcome aboard. I hope you have a pleasant journey. :-)

Bob Cohen
Writer, Internet Consultant, Teacher
w: bobjcohen.com
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