Example 2

The following chord form has the Root note on the fifth (A) string, the 3rd on the fourth (D) string, and the 7th on the third (G) string. Use these fingerings to play the chord progression.

Swing 2




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Example 3

Now we'll use the same chord voicings, except instead of playing the Root note on the fifth (A) string, play the 5th of the chord (right next to the Root) on the sixth (E) string. The circle in the diagrams indicate where the Root note is, but you don't play it.

Swing 3




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Combining Voicings

The chord progressions we've looked at so far have all moved in a scale or chromatic fashion, but it is common to see chords move in cycles like fourths. When this occurs, as in a IImi7 V7 progression, it sounds better (and is easier to play) if you keep the voicings close to each other. Here are three examples of combining the different chord forms for a smoother sound. Try them out with these standard progressions.

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Quick Review

• Example 1 Chords with the Root on the sixth (E) string.
• Example 2 Chords with the Root on the fifth (A) string.
• Example 3 Chords with the 5th on the bottom.
• Combining Voicings