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Major Scale Over minor ii-V-i

The first scale we learn in music is usually the major scale. It's a gratifying feeling when you can master all twelve major scales and can play them in several octaves with both hands. The more in depth we get with music the more important the understanding of the major scales becomes. In beginning jazz theory you will learn about the different modes of the major scale. Experimenting and learning the sounds of the modes will introduce new dimensions of the major scale.

Instead of thinking of modes, it is sometimes easier to think of which major or minor scale can be used over certain progressions. In jazz, the first modes that you learn are usually the modes that fit over a ii-V-I progression. The dorian mode is used over the ii chord, ionian over the I chord, and over the V chord the Mixolydian is used. In reality these three scales are one major scale. So over a ii-V-I progression in F-major, use F-major scale over all three chords.

There is a major scale short cut that can be used when playing a minor ii-V-i progression as well. The chords in a C minor ii-V-i are Dm7b5, G7b9,b13 and Cm7. Using the major scale a half step above the ii chord, in this case Eb major, creates an interesting sound that is different from the harmonic minor sound. Since we're dealing with major scales, it is also a useful tool for navigating around the more difficult keys. Playing in F# minor becomes easier since you can use A major scale. Another way to think of it is to play the relative major scale of the minor one chord. For example, over a ii-V-i in E minor, you can play the G major scale.

ii-V-i in C-minor
G Major scale is used.

ii-V-i in E-minor
Eb Major scale is used.

Bb Major scale is used.(upper)
F Major scale is used.(lower)

Since we are (or should be) comfortable with the major keys it is easy to make up patterns. Let's start with a simple pattern of thirds.

Broken thirds
A Major scale is used.

Parallel thirds

Diatonic seventh chords played over minor i-V-i progression.

Broken seventh chords
Diatonic seventh chords in the key of C are used.

Parallel seventh chords

Keep experimenting with this concept and add it to your bag of tricks!
Feel free to visit my website, perdanielsson.com

Good Luck,
Per Danielsson

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