Major 251 Drills: UST b9/#11 & UST #5#9
In this lesson we explore the b9/#11 and #5#9 upper structures over major 251 progressions. We then apply these voicings to the well-known jazz standards "Autumn Leaves" and "The Nearness Of You".
Recap Of Previous Practice Slot
We start this lesson with a recap of the last practice slot where we explored upper structures 13#11 and 13b9. We discuss the application and similarities between these 2 upper structure triads.
UST b9#11 Drills & Exercises
We then explore the sound and construction of the b9#11 upper structure which is a major triad built from the #11.
We examine the voice leading between the ii-7 and V7 chords and discuss a shortcut which can be used to access the b9#11 altered tensions.
UST #5#9 Drills & Exercises
The second upper structure triad that we explore contains #5#9 alterations. To access this sound we build a major triad from the #5.
The #5#9 upper structure can be applied to dominant 7 chords followed by the word "alt". "Alt" is shorthand for "altered" and #5#9 upper structure can be used create a tense altered dominant sound.
Practice Tips
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Download the upper structure triad cheat sheet and keep it close to the piano for quick and easy reference.
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Start the drills in different places on the circle of fifths to ensure that you are evenly distributing your practice time throughout all 12 keys.
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For each upper structure voicing, make a conscious analysis of the scale degrees. In particular identify the altered tones in relation to the root note.
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Experiment with these upper structure triads over your favourite jazz standards.
- Understand the role of tritone substitute and how this creates different upper structure triad possibilities in 251 progressions.
maurizio955 says
Hi where are the exercises in PDF ? thank you Maurizio