Learn the head of the song “Sugar” in 5th position minor
Lesson time: (3min 40sec)
Course preview
This lesson is part of the course How to Achieve Valved Bends and Integrate Them into Songs
Watch a preview of the full course below.
Lesson transcript:
Lesson Seven: Exploring Fifth Position Minor
Welcome back!
In this lesson, we will continue exploring fifth position minor.
Recap of Lesson Six
In lesson six, we discussed why I chose fifth position minor as my preferred method for learning in a minor key using a major diatonic harmonica. The pentatonic scale we covered in that lesson is crucial for this session. You will find many notes from that scale useful as we play through the head of our next tune and when we work on a solo.
The Tune: Sugar
Today, we will play a tune by Stanley Tarantin which works perfectly in fifth position. I believe this is a fantastic choice for us to learn together.
- Song: Sugar
- PDF: Follow along on your PDF.
Playing Instructions
- Listen carefully to the intro and note that it has a four-beat count off, starting on beat three. You will hear two beats before we begin the melody line.
- Follow along on your PDF and listen to me play.
- After this, you will have time to practice on your own with the track that does not include the harmonica.
Observations
The head of Sugar is straightforward and logically laid out for the harmonica in fifth position.
- It features what I refer to as a stair-step melody, the way it descends in intervals makes complete sense.
- The arrangement is also logical for fifth position minor on the harmonica.
Practice
Check out the tablature in your PDF, practice diligently, and work on getting the head down solidly.
Next lesson, we will have the opportunity to create a solo with this material and tie everything together.
I'll see you in the next one!
About the instructor
PT Gazell has earned his position as a master of the diatonic harmonica. After years as the sought-after side man and session player for some of Nashville's greatest, PT discovered half-valving and his music literally soared to new heights. No other player combines his phrasing, melodic style, song choices and improvisational abilities the way he does - in the end, it is a style all his own. Using his own signature instrument, the Gazell Method diatonic manufactured by Seydel, PT proves that the harmonica is capable of far more than most of us believe. Dig it! In his courses, PT teaches half-valving straight from the source - so you can get started with the Gazell Method, master valved bends, and bring them into your own songs. read more