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Lesson: Using left hand approach notes
For intermediate learners

Learn - Approach notes

We are assuming you are able to play reasonably well, and also able to improvise a little.

Approach notes precede their target note and create a resolution pattern. As you may know, music is about tension and resolution. Adding approach notes create tension, while the
root note resolves. This technique is useful in either broken chord or block chord left hand styles. Let's explore the applications:

(1) Chromatic Approach

A chromatic approach is one-half step above or below the target.


(2) Scale Approach

A scale approach resolves to a target note from its upper or lower adjacent scale tone. Usually, this means a whole step above or below the target. In some cases, the scale
approach might be a half step away, technically making it a chromatic approach. But it doesn't really matter what you call it, just as long as you are within the right scale.


(3) Dominant Approach

Dominant approach precedes the target with its fifth (called the dominant) from above or below. This 'dominant root motion' or the 5-1 resolution is a very strong pattern.

Here is a common chord progression in the C key. Notice the approach notes always come in before the target notes.
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INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO
Approach notes
technique
(BEFORE)
This video
demonstrates with no
approach notes
Click below to watch
video clip!
WMV format
INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO
Approach notes
technique
(AFTER)
This video
demonstrates with
approach notes and
slight reharmonisation
Click below to watch
video clip!
WMV format
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