Chords Within Chords | Theory for Mandolin and Fiddle

Chords Within Chords

from: Theory for Mandolin and Fiddle with Chad Manning

This lesson is part of the course Theory for Mandolin and Fiddle with Chad Manning.

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About This Course

Learn the basics of music theory as it relates to four-string instruments tuned in fifths. Chad’s practical approach will deepen your knowledge of chords, scales, and arpeggios, and help you integrate them into your playing.

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Major Chord Arpeggios

Learn how major chord arpeggios are constructed and how to find them on the mandolin/fiddle fingerboard. Chad explains that major chords are constructed of roots, thirds, and fifths: the first, third, and fifth notes in a major scale. Then he shows you different finger patterns for major arpeggios in bluegrass keys, giving you handy ways to visualize each pattern and advice about practicing them in different ways.

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In-depth instruction on chord and scale theory for instruments tuned in fifths
More than 40 practical, hands-on theory lessons designed specifically for fiddlers and mandolinists
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Chords Within Chords

In this lesson, Chad shows you some of the chords that exist within larger chords. For example, the fifth, seventh, and ninth of a dominant nine chord equal a minor triad built on the fifth of the chord. Chad demonstrates how you can use this on the “Sweet Georgia Brown” circle-of-fifths progression to focus on the higher notes of the chord you’re playing. He also shows you how to use a Dorian scale that starts on the fifth of the chord to achieve a similar effect with a scalar melody rather than just an arpeggio.

Chords Within Chords (Available to subscribers)

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← Major Six Sounds

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Circle of Fifths Review in D →

Previous Lesson

← Major Six Sounds

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Circle of Fifths Review in D →

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← Major Six Sounds

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