Upper Structure Triads
Upper structure triads have been an enduring feature of jazz since the early Bebop era. This chord voicing technique can be heard in big bands and solo piano alike and produces a rich bitonal effect that can be used for comping, harmonizing melodies and improvising melodic lines. Watch as all possible upper structure triads are derived from their component tensions, only a few are selected for use and then see how they are employed in the the tune Yesterdays to provide added depth and sophistication. Added Bonus: fully notated transcriptions of the video intro and outro are included for you to play.

Lesson Stats
When added: 10/21/07; Duration: 15 minutes; Tunes used in lesson: Yesterdays

Prerequisites
Moderate keyboard proficiency. Ability to read notation. These lessons are good prerequisites: The Five Essential 7th Chords, Comping with Inversions: Major iiVIs, Comping with Inversions: Minor iiVis, Rootless Voicings with Added Tension Major ii-V-Is Part 1 and Part 2

Quiz
Quiz 1: Identify and use upper structure triads.

Practice Sessions & Playalongs
Practice Session 1: Write out and play the upper structure triad built on b9 minor (b9b13).
Practice Session 2: Write out and play the upper structure triad built on 9 (#11).
Practice Session 3: Write out and play the upper structure triad built on #9 (#9).
Practice Session 4: Write out and play the upper structure triad built on b5 (b9b5).
Practice Session 5: Write out and play the upper structure triad built on b6 (#9b13).
Practice Session 6: Write out and play the upper structure triad built on 6 (b9).
Practice Session 7: Write out and play the upper structure triad built on b9 minor and 9.
Practice Session 8: Write out and play the upper structure triad built on b9 minor, 9 and #9.
Practice Session 9: Write out and play the upper structure triad built on b9 minor, 9, #9 and b5.
Practice Session 10: Write out and play the upper structure triad built on b9 minor, 9, #9, b5 and b6.
Practice Session 11: Write out and play the upper structure triad built on b9 minor, 9, #9, b5, b6 and 6.
Practice Session 12: Write out and play upper structures on the tune Yesterdays.

Includes play-alongs for all practice sessions in MIDI, Band-in-a-Box™ and GarageBand formats.

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