Transposing a lick
Hi, David:
Kind of an involved question. I am working on the Improvising Study 1. For the ABAC chorus form (the third type of variation), I want to take my "A" lick and transpose it to the IV, for the "B". I am working on a lick that is challenging for me.
It's the opening lick from "Snake Oil." The notes are D, G, B, Db, and D. These work out to the 5, 1, 3, 5b, and 5 of the root chord. When I transpose this up to the IV, the notes become G, C, E, Gb, and G. The only Gb available to me (without overblows) is the 2'. So I have to utilize that 2'.
Would it be acceptable for me to play the lick using these holes:
2, 1+, 2+, 2', 2
The notes work out right, but the original lick goes up the scale. When I transpose it to the IV, I would have to go down to the 1+ and then back up.
If this doesn't work, then I guess I will have to find another lick. Maybe transposing doesn't work on all licks and all chord changes. Or I have to start overblowing, which I am totally not ready for.
Thank you.
Thanks for your response. Actually, it doesn't sound as good when transposed to the IV. I guess some licks don't transpose as well as others.
I'll find another lick, one that I can fit into all the chorus forms. Thanks again.
It's all worth trying, and each time you do, you learn more about how the IV Chord can function after the I Chord… very helpful and musical. P.S., if there's a 3' in your lick, it doesn't translate to the IV Chord, maybe you figured that out already. Have a good weekend.
Evening Marc. Sounds like a good solution. If it sounds good to you when playing it, then you got a winner. If it doesn't, then dump it and find another one.