Theory and Improv for Guitarists (JamPlay)

Master Chords, Scales, and Soloing with a Ground-Up Approach to Guitar Theory

Marty FriedmanTommy EmmanuelSteve VaiEric GalesEric Johnson

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Theory and Improv for Guitarists (JamPlay)

About this course

Improvisation isn’t just about licks—it’s about knowing your chords inside and out. In this deep-dive course, veteran guitarist and educator Marcelo Berestovoy delivers a comprehensive guide to mastering the music theory that fuels great improvisation. Whether you're a beginner learning how to solo over basic changes or an intermediate player looking to break through creative barriers, Marcelo's step-by-step approach will sharpen your skills and deepen your understanding of the fretboard.

The course begins by demystifying the CAGED system and building a solid foundation in diatonic triads, four-note chords, and the chromatic scale. Marcelo shows how chords are built and how to find them across the neck, empowering you to identify new shapes and sounds. From there, you'll explore scale-chord relationships, modal theory (including major and minor modes), and how to connect theory to musical expression.

You’ll also dive into practical applications through genre-based lessons in gypsy jazz, swing, and bossa nova—learning how to comp, outline melodies, and improvise over jazz standards like “The Shiek of Araby,” “After You’ve Gone,” and “Pa'Cito.” Marcelo’s calm, articulate teaching style and progressive curriculum make it easy to absorb complex concepts and immediately apply them to your own playing.

Whether you’re learning to craft solos over ii-V-I progressions or want to deepen your command of modes, arpeggios, and chord scales, this course is an essential resource for any guitarist serious about unlocking the full potential of music theory and improvisation.

What you'll learn

  • Identify five different positions for playing any major chord
  • Recognize that pattern numbers are based solely on root positions, not scale shapes
  • Understand the relationship between chord shapes and scale patterns
  • Learn to think beyond shapes and focus on chord tones (roots, thirds, fifths)
  • Understand that CAGED is an arbitrary organizational system, not a musical law
Release date: 08/25/2014 • 5h 26m runtime
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Sample lessons
The CAGED System
The CAGED System
Intro to the CAGED System
The CAGED System
The CAGED System
Breaking Down the Letters
The CAGED System
The CAGED System
Scale Organization
Diatonic Triads and 4 Note Chords
Diatonic Triads and 4 Note Chords
Triads

What's included

57 lessons • 18 charts

Series Introduction
"How can you play any solos if you don't know your chords?" Marcelo looks to remedy this situation with his new Theory and Improv with Marcelo series. Learn foundational aspects of chording, along with the modes and scales that will make you a complete improv player!
The CAGED System
A mastery of harmony is required before one can improvise successfully. The CAGED system is a tried and true method that compartmentalizes the visual shapes of chords and scales. In this lesson, Marcelo gives you his take on the CAGED system.
The CAGED System
A mastery of harmony is required before one can improvise successfully. The CAGED system is a tried and true method that compartmentalizes the visual shapes of chords and scales. In this lesson, Marcelo gives you his take on the CAGED system.
The CAGED System
A mastery of harmony is required before one can improvise successfully. The CAGED system is a tried and true method that compartmentalizes the visual shapes of chords and scales. In this lesson, Marcelo gives you his take on the CAGED system.
Diatonic Triads and 4 Note Chords
What is a chord? How do we know which notes make up the chords we are playing? Join Marcelo in this foundational lesson on identifying diatonic triads and 4 note chords!
Diatonic Triads and 4 Note Chords
What is a chord? How do we know which notes make up the chords we are playing? Join Marcelo in this foundational lesson on identifying diatonic triads and 4 note chords!
Diatonic Triads and 4 Note Chords
What is a chord? How do we know which notes make up the chords we are playing? Join Marcelo in this foundational lesson on identifying diatonic triads and 4 note chords!

+ 50 more lessons

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Reviews

1 result

alan195473

Verified buyer

12/17/24

Great stuff!

Marcelo never disappoints! Lots of useful info here.

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