Module 17

LESSON 1: Modes of Modes – How to use Locrian over a V7 Chord
In this video lesson, I show you how to use the Locrian mode in a new setting, over a dominant chord (in addition to using it over a mi7b5 chord). I call this approach “Modes of Modes,” because it gives you the flexibility to apply any mode to a different chord by taking the entire scale and placing it on notes other than the root of the chord. If you’ve ever thought to yourself, “Why do I even need the Locrian mode…I can only use it over mi7b5 chords,” this video will immediately show you how you can use this great sounding mode overall dominant chords. It will really open up your hearing. Includes PDF lesson notes. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.
LESSON 2: Ostinato Bass Figure with Solo Breaks
In this video lesson, I’ll show you how to play an ostinato bass pattern (a short, repeated theme) and take solo breaks. This is a really fun and effective way to improve your sense of time, your groove and your ability to improvise over a two or four measure solo break. This style of playing is also very effective if you ever want to play unaccompanied solo saxophone. It teaches you how to switch between performing the role of the rhythm section and the role of the soloist. Includes detailed PDF lesson notes. INTERMEDIATE / ADVANCED LEVEL.
LESSON 3: Adding a Pedal Note to Scales for “High Melodic Mileage”
In this video lesson, I’ll show how to use a device called a “pedal,” which will instantly transform your scales into very catchy, melodic phrases for use in your improvised solos. I call this approach “high melodic mileage,” because it helps you to find many more melodic uses the scales. The pedal helps to break up the monotony of the scale by highlighting lager intervals. The pedal also lends itself to naturally creating rhythmic interest in your lines. Includes PDF lesson notes. INTERMEDIATE LEVEL.

LESSSON 4: 5 Note Tape Measure® Scales
In this video, I demonstrate the four note tape measure scales. This is the first four notes of each major scale, played in the cycle. I play the four notes in four direcitons: 1. Up 2. Down 3. Up/Down 4. Down/Up. I also discuss and demonstrate some different phrasing techniques for the four note scales, as well as playing each grouping twice for a technical workout. Includes PDF Lesson notes. INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED LEVEL.
LESSON 5: Road Tips – The D = ?
In this video, I demonstrate the five note tape measure scales. This is the first five notes of each major scale, played in the cycle. I play the five notes in four direcitons: 1. Up 2. Down 3. Up/Down 4. Down/Up. I play all examples in 3/4 and in 5/4. Includes detailed PDF Lesson notes. INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED LEVEL.
LESSON 6: Using Everyday Sounds to Locate Notes on Your Instrument?
I’m constantly aware of environmental sounds. Whether I’m in my car, listening to the “ding” telling me that the car is starting, a railroad crossing bell, an elevator chime, etc. I connect those sounds with the fingerings required to produce those pitches on my instrument. This can be tricky if you play multiple instruments, so I recommend that you use fingerings for your my primary instrument. This is a fun way to reinforce the location of the sounds you hear in your mind. As you get better at locating these external sounds, you will also improve your ability to locate internal sounds, such as the ones you’re hearing in your mind.
Membership course
aprox 23 min

Module 18

LESSON 1: Applying Lower and Upper Neighboring tones to a mi7 Chord
In this video lesson, Greg shares his method for applying lower and upper neighboring tones to a minor seventh chord. This approach provides a simple way to melodically enhance the chord. If you’ve been bored with the same old way of practicing your chord arpeggios, this video lesson will bring new life and energy to your practice sessions. INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED LEVEL. With detailed PDF lesson notes for C, Bb, and Eb instruments.
LESSON 2: Coltrane Device – Scales in 3rds with Lower Neighboring Tones
In this video, we explore a great Coltrane device for transforming a common scale pattern in thirds to a very hip jazz phrase by adding lower neighboring tones to the lower notes in the groups of thirds. Very easy to play, and a very high cool factor! INTERMEDIATE LEVEL. Includes PDF lesson notes for C, Bb, Eb Instruments.
LESSON 3: The Cycle
In this video lesson, Greg shares his unique system for teaching the Cycle (also known as “the Circle of 4ths” or “the Circle of 5ths”). Understanding the Cycle is essential for the development of all aspiring musicians. Includes Hip Lick #1 played in the Cycle in 12 keys, plus detailed PDF lesson notes for C, Bb, and Eb instruments. INTERMEDIATE / ADVANCED LEVEL.

LESSSON 4: 6 Note Tape Measure® Scales
In this video, Greg plays the six note tape measure® scales in all four directions (up, down, up/down, and down/up). He also discusses and demonstrates some of his own practice strategies, such as playing them high-speed and also playing them very slowly. Includes PDF for C, Bb, and Eb instruments. INTERMEDIATE & ADVANCED LEVEL.
LESSON 5: Road Tips – The G = ?
Greg shows how to keep your mind focused and sharp even when you’re away from the horn. This music theory game involves thinking of the note “G” as different degrees of major scales.
Membership course
aprox 46 min