Connecting Arpeggios Pt. 2 | Guitargate

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Connecting Arpeggios Pt. 2

In this masterclass, Jack Ruch explores the concept of using arpeggios and chord shapes as tools for improvisation on the guitar. He begins by demonstrating how to create a loop track with a rhythm guitar part, setting the stage for an in-depth discussion on arpeggios. Jack emphasizes the importance of connecting arpeggios together and introduces his go-to shapes for seamless transitions. The focus is on breaking away from traditional scale-based thinking and instead, understanding the harmony and how different chord shapes can be superimposed over a basic chord progression to enrich the musical texture.

Jack delves deeper into the theory behind the harmony, explaining how to superimpose chords over basic progressions to achieve a more complex sound. He uses the key of A minor as an example, demonstrating how to layer an A minor seven chord with various arpeggios to create a richer, more nuanced sound. By focusing on the chords within the progression and the notes that compose these chords, Jack reveals how to think about music in a more harmonically complex way. This approach allows for the creation of more interesting lines and melodies by utilizing the full range of the guitar's fretboard.

Throughout the masterclass, Jack demonstrates various techniques to make these theoretical concepts practical and musically effective. He provides examples of how to integrate these ideas into your playing, using a combination of arpeggios, chord shapes, and scale patterns. The masterclass is an invaluable resource for guitarists looking to expand their improvisational vocabulary beyond traditional scales and patterns, offering insights into the creative possibilities that arise from a deeper understanding of harmony and chordal structures.

Transcript Summary

  • Introduction and Setup (00:02:685 - 00:41:655)
    • Jack begins the stream by greeting viewers.
    • He plays a rhythm guitar track to use for the lesson.
    • Technical setup for looping the track.
  • Arpeggios and Harmony (00:41:655 - 00:51:615)
    • Discussion on connecting arpeggios and superimposing chords.
    • Emphasis on understanding harmony over scales.
    • Introduction to layering sounds over basic chord progressions.
  • Building and Applying Arpeggios (00:51:615 - 00:11:925)
    • Jack explains constructing arpeggios from chord notes.
    • Application of arpeggios in a minor blues context.
    • Using C major seven arpeggio over A minor for a richer sound.
  • Expanding Musical Vocabulary (00:11:925 - 00:43:165)
    • Integrating arpeggios with pentatonic and scale patterns.
    • Techniques for transitioning between different neck positions.
    • Jack shares tips for breaking out of scale patterns with arpeggios.
  • Practical Application and Examples (00:43:165 - 00:07:185)
    • Demonstrations over a backing track.
    • Comparison of playing with and without arpeggio integration.
    • Exploring advanced arpeggios and chord extensions.
  • Technical Difficulties and Recap (00:07:185 - 00:13:875)
    • Stream interruption and quick resolution.
    • A recap of key points and techniques discussed.
    • Jack emphasizes the importance of musicality over technicality.
  • Closing Remarks (00:13:875 - 00:19:995)
    • Final thoughts on the effective use of arpeggios in guitar playing.
    • Jack encourages viewers to experiment with the concepts taught.
    • End of the stream and thanks to the viewers.

Perhaps you remember seeing the video above titled “THIS MAN is my favorite guitar player in the world right now.”

Well nothing has changed. Jack Ruch is quite simply THE player I’m aspiring to become, and he embodies EVERYTHING that I try and teach on Guitargate.

From his buttery lines and perfect voice leading - to his beyond tasteful chord tone soloing - Jack is quite simply astounding.  And he absolutely KILLS live. A total professional & Nashville staple, Jack will be teaching you all of the things that he uses in real life, each and every night. You know: TRIADS, CHORD TONES, & MELODIES!

Premium Members get access to Jack's and all our pro ZOOM Lessons.