MINOR KEY SOLOING MUSICAL TEMPLATE 2:
EXAMPLE PROGRESSION 2: Dm - G
By analyzing the chords, we determine we are in the key of D minor. D minor really sounds like
home base. The progression is a I minor chord, Dm, to a IV major chord, G. Lay this change
down with a slow groove and two measures per chord.
KEY POINT: Examine the notes in each chord of the progression to determine the hip
landing and resolution notes. Try landing on these target notes as the chord changes to
make strong solo statements.What relates to all the chords:
- D Minor Pentatonic & Blues scales over all the chords. Remember this is the default setting.
We are in the key of D minor, with no major V chord, so we know that D minor Pentatonic &
Blues will work over all the chords as it relates to all.
- D Dorian mode over both chords also relates to all. By analyzing the progression, there is a I
minor changing to a IV major chord. Looking at our minor key rule for playing over all the
chords, we see there is a IV major chord in this minor progression. We know we can play D
Dorian mode over all the chords.
D Dorian is the same as C major. Remember you have to emphasize the D notes to sound
minor. So play all the C major scales but remember to shift to the root of the mode: D. Start on
and emphasize the D notes and make that D the tonal center. D Dorian = C Major
- Try landing on the hip chord tones when the changes come up.
- D minor chord contains the chord tones D-F-A
- G major chord contains the chord tones G-B-D