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Slash Chords and Upper Structures: A Comprehensive Guide for Jazz Guitarists

Stanley Bell

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Published in Triads Over Bass: Slash Chords And Upper Structures (The Jazz Guitar WorkShop Series)

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Slash chords are a type of extended harmony used in jazz music. They are created by adding a note (usually in the bass) that is not a part of the traditional chord harmony. This creates a more complex and dissonant sound that can be used to add tension and intrigue to a musical arrangement.

Upper structures are another type of extended harmony that can be used to create a variety of different sounds. They are created by adding notes to the top of a basic chord, creating a richer and more complex sound.

Triads over Bass: Slash Chords and Upper Structures (The Jazz Guitar WorkShop Series)

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Both slash chords and upper structures can be used to add variety and interest to your jazz guitar playing. They can be used to create a wide range of different sounds, from lush and beautiful to tense and dissonant.

Getting Started with Slash Chords

The first step to using slash chords is to understand how they are constructed. A slash chord is written with a forward slash (/) between the chord root and the bass note. For example, the chord C/G would be a C major chord with a G bass note.

When playing slash chords, it is important to voice the chords correctly. The bass note should be played in the lowest register, and the other notes should be voiced above it. This will help to create a clear and balanced sound.

Getting Started with Upper Structures

Upper structures are created by adding notes to the top of a basic chord. The most common type of upper structure is the add9 chord, which is created by adding a 9th note to the top of a basic chord. For example, the chord Cadd9 would be a C major chord with a 9th note added to the top.

When playing upper structures, it is important to choose notes that will complement the basic chord. The notes should be consonant with the chord, and they should not create any dissonant intervals.

Using Slash Chords and Upper Structures in Your Playing

Slash chords and upper structures can be used to add a variety of different sounds to your jazz guitar playing. They can be used to create lush and beautiful harmonies, or they can be used to create tense and dissonant sounds.

Here are a few tips for using slash chords and upper structures in your playing:

Start by learning a few basic slash chords and upper structures.
Experiment with different voicings and inversions of slash chords and upper structures.
Use slash chords and upper structures to create your own unique sound.

Slash chords and upper structures are a powerful tool that can be used to add variety and interest to your jazz guitar playing. They can be used to create a wide range of different sounds, from lush and beautiful to tense and dissonant.

If you are looking to expand your jazz guitar vocabulary, I encourage you to learn more about slash chords and upper structures. These extended harmonies can help you to create more interesting and sophisticated solos and comping patterns.