Connecting The Dots •

I heard Jeff talking about this app in an interview and I got really excited about it. I’m a relatively seasoned player wanting to learn how to better improvise over chord changes, particularly jazz standards, and the way he described this app made it sound like it was exactly what I was looking for. But I was pretty disappointed to discover this is really suited for new players. I didn’t really learn anything new from this. I think if it were to cover more complex changes and incorporate more modes and scales rather than just basic dominant arpeggios, it would be what I was looking for. I’m sure if I had this in my first year of playing it would’ve been a godsend, but at this point I don’t find it very useful. I must also say that he doesn’t explain the grids at all, and I’m not really sure how to understand them.

I’ve played saxophone for three years (started in my 40s), and although I’ve progressed, I’ve struggled to memorize arpeggios and, as the name of this app suggests, to connect the dots and start nailing chord changes. I still have several lessons to go in the app, but after the first few lessons I’m finally remembering arpeggios in all 12 keys and how to use them over chords…without always starting on the root. 😉 Thanks to pro Jeff Coffin for creating such a great and affordable tool for musicians!

I have just touched the tip of the iceberg of this comprehensive and well thought tool. The Voice Leading Grids are great visualizations to help color the movement of notes. This app alleviates the barriers to improving musical ability.