Improv with upbeat “I vi IV 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 upbeat. You'll hear this progression in many guitar-based popular songs of the 90’s.
The Chord Progression
Before jamming along with a backing track, be sure to play the chords as a warm up.
| I | VImin | IV | V |
| G | Emin | C | D |
How to Play the Chords
Materials to Use
This track is suited to pentatonic riffs as well as the G major scale generally.
G Major
G Pentatonic Major
Backing Track
Put everything together with the backing track.
Exercises
- Play the chords G, Emin, C, D along with the track.
- If you know any other versions of these chords, try those instead.
- Play the G major pentatonic scale along with the track, in time.
- Play the G 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.