LJS 58: How to Use Triads to Improve Your Jazz Improvisation

Welcome to episode 58 of the LJS Podcast where today we are talking about how you can use triads to improve your jazz improvisation. Today's lesson comes straight out of our brand new eBook "Zero to Improv". Exercises are given out for this lesson. Listen in!
Listen to episode 58




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In this episode

What's a triad?
A triad is what I call the foundation of any chord. A more text book definition would be: a set of three notes that can be stacked in thirds.
Basic formula: Root-3rd-5th (3rd and 5th altered depending on quality)

4 qualities of triads you should know:
Major: R-3rd-5th
Minor: R-b3-5
Augmented: R-3-#5
Diminished: R-b3-b5
Root position, 1st inversion, 2nd inversion major triads:


If the root is in the bass (C or F) it is in Root Position.
If the 3rd is in the bass (E or A) it is in 1st Inversion.
If the 5th is in the bass (G or C) it is in 2nd Inversion.
C major triad to F major triad exercise:

Take a look at which inversions are being used:

C major triad to G major triad exercise:

I-#idim-ii-V chord progression triad exercise:

Listen to episode 57: Why I Stopped Hating My Playing and Why You Should Stop Hating Yours
Mentioned in the show
Zero to Improv eBook
Our flagship eBook, Zero to Improv, is a book that teaches you how to become a great jazz improviser from the ground up. No stone is left un-turned. This isn’t your ordinary music book. Zero to Improv calls you to action! Packed full of improv and jazz theory lessons, you’ll start from the beginning and build up all of the skills and knowledge you need. Audio examples are included for all music notation.
Versions are available for C, Bb, Eb and Bass Clef instruments. Designed for all skill levels.
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