Vertical Improvisation in Music

Alright, so we've talked about horizontal improvisation in the key. Now let's discuss the opposite way of improvising: vertical improvisation.

Understanding Vertical Improvisation

Vertical improvisation is when you follow the chords. For example, if you're changing from D to G, you should adjust your choice of notes to match the G chord.

Playing Techniques

• The most obvious way to play this is to use arpeggio-type figures. This allows you to clearly hear the changes in your right hand.
• Note that with horizontal improvisation, you were playing more freely, moving across the changes without necessarily nailing each chord.

Quick Thinking Required

Now, with vertical improvisation, you need to think more quickly because you must stay on top of all those chords.

Example of Inversions

Here's an example illustrating the use of mixed-up inversions:

• First inversion
• First inversion
• Second inversion

You can also achieve a similar effect using very simple motifs, such as just two notes from a chord.

Expanding Ideas

• Take that idea and expand on it.
• Repeating the same rhythm is often very effective.

Using Intervals

Another approach might include using sixths, which appear in triads between:

• A and F sharp
• B and G
• E in C sharp

As you might have noticed, I played all these elements in the solo on the track, including little chromatic passing notes to connect to the main notes in the triad, which are a sixth apart.

Maintaining the Vertical Approach

Again, this is still considered vertical improvisation since you are modifying your approach to fit each chord.

Improvisation with Backing Tracks

One exercise you could try with the backing track is to play chords in the left hand instead of a bassline. For instance, use the set of chords we previously examined:

• D, G, A, D

Try improvising either horizontally or vertically with some chords in the left hand.

Creating Your Backing Track

Even better, you can create your own backing track by recording yourself playing the bassline. Record it:

• 10 or 20 times
• You might want to add a click or a drum machine

Then, use that as your backing track while you play chords in the left hand or with a scale.