The Triad Matrix Mark Dzubia

The triad can be used to create a matrix of possibilities for routing

courses through progressions. The lesson includes matrices and the first
three bars of Coltrane's "Giant Steps" to demonstrate the concept.

The triad can be used to create a matrix of possibilities for routing courses through
progressions. In Diagram No. 1, all of the possible major and minor triads that can work as
arpeggiated melodic material over the chords of a ii–V7(alt)–I–vi7(alt) progression are from Mark Dzubia's
The Big Book of
catalogued. These choices were based on chord tones and acceptable tensions. On the Jazz Guitar
V7(alt) chords, only altered tensions are used. Improvisation
Diagram No. 1—Triad Matrix for a ii–V7(alt)–I–VI7(alt) Progression

Major and Minor Triad Matrix of Possibilities - Specific Routes Taken

The routes taken in example 1 are all stepwise, which has the tendency to produce a smooth fl ow. Notice
how each arpeggiated triad acts as a springboard into each phrase. By all means, feel free to experiment with
different routes once the matrix has been established.
Triad Matrix Application—ii–V7(alt) –I–VI7(alt) Progression
Now let’s apply the triad matrix to a more complicated progression. This progression, which is in the style
of the first three bars of Coltrane’s “Giant Steps,” has been used to demonstrate how this complex cycle can
be simplified.

Diagram No. 2 illustrates all of the major and minor triads that are available over the chords. The choices are
based on chord tones and acceptable tensions (on the dominant chords, only non-altered tensions are used).
Again, the routes used are stepwise to accommodate the diffi cult changes, but try experimenting with
others.

Diagram No. 2—Triad Matrix for Changes in the Style of the First Three Bars of “Giant Steps”

Major and Minor Triad Matrix of Possibilities - Specific Routes Taken

The improvisations in example 2 range from the most to the least amount of stepwise traveling. The
application of this matrix, in combination with the rapid, modulating changes, produces a sound that’s very
reflective of Coltrane’s composition.

Triad Matrix Application—Changes in the Style of the First Three Bars of “Giant Steps”

Obviously, there are many matrix variations available to explore. The whole point is to establish an
improvisation matrix using just a couple of variables (such as major and minor triads or minor pentatonic
scales). Remember, using too many devices can make things sound undefined and vague.