Intermediate Arpeggios
Intermediate Arpeggios
The arpeggios discussed here will share the following qualities that put them in the intermediate level:
- Arpeggios are not played in open position, requiring a more expansive knowledge of fretboard notes.
- Arpeggios are seventh chord arpeggios, requiring thought beyond basic triads.
- Arpeggios are not limited to those contained in the key of C major, requiring use of accidentals.
The Process for Creating Arpeggios
- Choose a set of chords. (A-7, D-7, B-7♭5, E7, B♭7)
- Choose a position on the guitar (for example, Position V)
- For each chord, spell out all of the notes in it.
- Now for each chord, play the arpeggio in position, from lowest available to highest available.
The Chords
| Chord | Notes |
| A-7 | A, C, E, G |
| D-7 | D, F, A, C |
| B-7♭5 | B, D, F, A |
| E7 | E, G♯, B, D |
| B♭7 | B♭, D, F, A♭ |
The Arpeggios (Vth Position)
A-7 Arpeggio
Note the similarity of the A-7 arpeggio with a pentatonic minor scale.
D-7 Arpeggio
B-7♭5 Arpeggio
E7 Arpeggio
B♭7 Arpeggio
Key Tasks
- Practice the arpeggios carefully, making sure the notes don't blend together.
- Name the notes as you practice— understanding the notes is key to arpeggio practice.
- Apply this process to the chords of an entirely different chord progression—but stay in the Vth position, at least for now. You should spell the chords and create the arpeggios yourself. That is crucial to understanding them.
