Re: II-V-I improvisation

Michael Temple ( mdtemple@ix.netcom.com )
Tue, 4 Mar 1997 07:55:20 -0600 (CST)

Jeffs Question was in the key of Bb if you are playing over a typical
II, V, I progression should you use the Bb major scale, or the F
mixolydian mode - I think that is what he was asking.

What is the difference, they both contain the same notes, except that
in Jeff's example he had an E note in his "dominant" scale. I have
found (albeit in my limited experience) that if you do not focus on the
chord tones (and tensions) while playing over each chord you will sound
like you are playing a major or mixolydian scale (not very melodic).

This is such a building block of jazz improvisation, I am very curious
as to how other approach this basic issue.

Mike