School has started for me, and this will be my 2nd year in our high school Jazz band. I went in last year not knowing much, other than simple major and minor barre chords. This year, tryouts were a breeze for me (thanks to GMC lessons!) and I once again claimed the guitar spot (competition was a bit stiff too, glad I got it).
Anyway, once again I have to tackle the issues of going from notation to chord symbols then to jazzy solos. The big thing I am having trouble with right now is chord symbols. I often omit the root note in regards to the bass guitar, but I am still finding myself into the comfort of my barre chords, usually sacrificing the jazzy notes that are often thrown in with chords.
For example, just a common set of chord symbols I may see
Cmaj13
F7/9#
G7sus4
C13#11
and you know, the alike CONFUSING symbols. I've been practicing up on Andrew's theory lessons as much as I could, however, I feel intimidated when I see these chords, and as I said, I sacrifice quality for comfort. Can someone possibly explain these chords, and or provide a site with information? Also, tell me if I'm on the right track...
Lets take the G7sus4 for example. The root, being G, is followed by a sus4. Does this mean I should play the G (or emit it for the bass guitar's sake) and then follow it with the 3rd, and a flat 4th? I have no clue...
Or even the C13#11 chord. I take the C (root) and follow it up with the 13th and the sharp 11th. Would the 13th be "essentially" a octave+5th and then the sharp 11th would be a "essentially" an octave+#3?
I hope I'm on the right track.
and about my jazz solos, I know they are just a matter of leaning scales and modes, which GMC has helped my thus far! I know this one is a strict issue of practice!
Thanks for any help!
