Improv with “I vi ii V”
Introduction
In this improvisation lesson, we'll turn play a I–vi–ii–V chord progression in C major. This track is a bit slower-paced.
The Chord Progression
It’s always a good idea to learn the chords before you begin playing. You may want to warm up to the track by playing the chords first. This will help you get the rhythm and structure in your head.
| I | VImin | IImin | V |
| C | Amin | Dmin | G |
How to Play the Chords
Materials to Use
This track is suited to pentatonic riffs as well as the C major scale generally.
C Major
C Pentatonic Major
Backing Track
Ready? Time to put it to work with the backing track.
Exercises
- Play the chords C, Amin, Dmin, Gmaj7 along with the track.
- If you know any other versions of these chords, try those instead.
- Play the C major pentatonic scale along with the track, in time.
- Play the C major scale along with the track, in time.
- Develop 2-3 short melodies using the scales. Each melody should consist of 5-10 notes. Play the melodies with the track.
As the creator of Hub Guitar, Grey has compiled hundreds of guitar lessons, written several books, and filmed hundreds of video lessons. He teaches private lessons in his Boston studio, as well as via video chat through TakeLessons.