Minor Line Cliche Tutorial
The minor line cliche is one of the most recognisable progressions in jazz music. You will find this sequence of chords over and over again in countless jazz standards so it makes sense to understand how the progression is constructed.
In this lesson we are going to explore the different ways you can navigate over the minor line cliche using bass lines, two-handed chords and left hand voicings.
We will apply these techniques to the tunes:
- My Funny Valentine
- Misty
- What Are You Doing The Rest Of You Life?
- In A Sentimental Mood
One thing is for certain, after this lesson you will always have something to play over the minor line cliche!
Practice Tips
Remember that the movement in the minor line cliche can be used over any minor chord.
If you are sitting on a minor chord for an extended period of time, or if you simply want to add some additional movement, the minor line cliche is always a tool in your arsenal.
Moving the voice from minor 7th to major 7th is very subtle but also very effective. Next time you see a minor chord on a lead sheet... test it out!
