As you go through the exercises
If you think of ideas for improvements to these exercises, let me know. Thanks. It is a work in progress.
A note (while I’m thinking about it) regarding the minor scale exercises I’m showing. Sometimes, I’ll change things up a little between “melodic minor” and “harmonic minor” modes to make the exercises sound more musical. If you’re already familiar with the different minor modes, just understand I’m not looking for slavish perfection to the theory here as much as I’m trying to help you become musical.
Sometimes, that means bending the rules a bit. Just my opinion.
Review: Db major scale exercises
Strive for evenness and accuracy. Remember Db is also C# (which, if the piano is in B, and you’re playing on tenor or trumpet, will be your key). And if you’re playing alto sax, if the guitar or piano is in E, you’re in C# (also Db….)
Do: B minor scales and 3rds
B minor is a fairly common key for wind instruments. Fairly easy to play. Remember to learn to read it off the page, but always with the goal of learning to play them by ear.
Review: G arpeggio exercises.
An easier key. Don’t take it for granted. “Use” the time between notes in slower tempos to plan ahead for smoother fingerings and transitions. Focus on intonation and consistency in volume as well as smooth hand technique.
Do: E arpeggio exercises
A little more challenging key. As usual, some harder and some easier so you can both learn and enjoy the progress you’re making.
