Guitar chord melody lessons

The theme (aka “head” or melody) is always leading the way. This is often overlooked on guitar. I usually think of it like this: I’m playing in a car and the melody is driving. I go where it wants to go! (and the rest of of the music follows too…) Here’s a quick assessment for you.

1.1 Melody test (for your ears):

If I played the first couple of notes of the tune you’re currently learning for you, could you sing, whistle or hum the rest of the song?

Pefectly? (whitout hesitation)

In time? (strict tempo)

(Be honest with yourself)

Good! Now you know the melody.

1.2 Guitar Advice (for your fingers):

Aim to play the melody mostly on the highest strings (1st and 2nd preferably). It will help later on when we harmonize with chords on the lower strings. You may have to play the melody an octave higher than it is written on the lead sheet.

1.3 Thoughts on melody:

If it’s an old american standard (broadway) song, you can certainly phrase the melody as you please. Listen to your favorite recording(s) of this tune. How is the player phrasing the melody? (The head in might sound different from the head out, listen to both closely.)

For instance, if you’re learning Autum Leaves or All the Things You Are, you don’t have to play the theme exactly as it is written every time. (This does not apply to jazz / bebop tunes unfortunately.)

In short, you’re allowed to play around with the rhythms a little, as long as the melody is recognizable… This phrasing concept can add some interest and contrast once chords are added in step 3.

2. Harmony

The next step is to learn, play and memorize the chords you wish to use under the theme for your chord melody arrangement. Yes that’s right: melody is on top and chords underneath!

Memorize the chords and the sequence in which they appear in the song. It’s best to know and understand what notes are contained in each chord. A little music theory is recommended here:

Sometimes, I also suggest students to sing the melody out loud while they play the chords. (his is the preambule to making a decent chord melody arrangement for a jazz standard)

You may also use these great references :

Also: look for some useful chord shapes I use in my own jazz standards arrangements. Some might feel akward at first, see what works for you.

Finally: jazz guitarists beware!

Chords are important but not as important as the melody. Please do not fall in the trap of simply playing “chord grips” all of the time! Learn the tune you are working on, not just shapes. To continue on the analogy I made earlier:

The melody is driving the car, the chords are the streets. The car goes wherever it needs to (even off-road sometimes!)