Using harmonized 6ths to play a melody over a I, IV, V progression

[charjo]

Hi AM folk,
If you have the patience to really follow this video, Guthrie Trapp demonstrates how to play a harmonized lead over a I, IV, V chord progression. The caveat is, the same shapes can have different applications in the context of the different chords and you will need to know your notes on the second string really well. It helps to understand intervals, but maybe more important to see the underlying chord shape. The melody note will always be the higher note, the harmonized note will always be the lower. Also, don’t confuse how the shapes relate to the chords and how you can create the harmonized 6th C major scale on the second string.
Some of the tricks include sliding between two forms of the chord, with passing tones in between; sliding from a major form to a dominant 7 form; different ways to resolve from the V-I and IV-I (including a major-minor walkdown from the IV). He does it all on the second string set (D,G,B) but the same shapes could be used on the first string set. Admittedly, I felt overwhelmed the first time I watched this but now I see it and it’s really worthwhile.
John

[richard t]

Interesting John. I watched this video before, but didn’t spend any time working on it. I tend to spend more time on the first string set, but do know the notes on the second string well from using the D shaped triad. The root of the chord shape is always on the second string.
He briefly shows ways to use it right at the end of the video.
I know it is up to us to work out ways to use this. I would like to see more examples of the application of these ideas. Maybe he will do another video. Or maybe I need to go back and review Brian’s videos on harmonized 3rds and 6ths.
Thanks for posting.

[charjo]

Richard,
I think Guthrie could have presented the material better but if you really take the time to go through this with guitar in hand, it’s very thorough.
John

[Anonymous]

Thanks for sharing John. Interesting video. Will definitely go through this a few more times. Different perspectives and approaches help solidify what (I think) I might already know.

[David L]

This is perfect for me right now, John. I working on a lesson that calls out for harmonized 6ths – thanks!

[Author]

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