This article will teach you the basics of turnarounds, from various rhythmic patterns to their use in fast or slow blues tracks.
Learn different types of turnarounds, from delta blues to string skipping patterns. Plus, gain valuable insight into transposing, chordal patterns, and techniques to create your own turnarounds.
So, grab your guitar and start mastering the art of blues turnarounds!
Key Takeaways
- Turnarounds can be used in the key of E minor or A minor, and can be adapted to any key.
- Different styles of turnarounds include those in the style of delta blues, lead guitar, slide guitar, and contrapuntal melodies.
- Techniques used in turnarounds include slides, string skipping, chordal patterns, triplets, chromatic movements, and slide guitar techniques.
- Turnarounds can be used to start or end a track, create a delta blues atmosphere, add expressive lead lines, or fill space in acoustic blues.
Overview of Blues Turnarounds
Turnarounds are used to start or end a track, and can be tailored to different styles of music. Techniques like slides, string skipping, and chordal patterns can be used to spice up the sound. You can also experiment with delta blues and lead guitar techniques, using triplets, chromatic movements, and classic blues chords.
To really make a turnaround your own, you should understand the theory behind it, including the key signatures, scales, and chord progressions. Incorporating turnarounds into your playing is a great way to add expressive lead lines and create an atmosphere of delta blues.
With the right practice and dedication, you can master the art of blues turnarounds.
Techniques and Examples for Turnarounds 1-6
Exploring different rhythmic patterns in turnarounds can help you create a unique sound. Incorporate slides, string skipping, and chordal patterns to give the classic blues chords a new twist.
Integrating slide guitar techniques into turnarounds can add a delta blues atmosphere or expressive lead lines. Learn to use triplets and chromatic movements to create unique sounds.
Try using a descending, string skipping pattern to end with a barred chord and a hammer-on for a major chord sound. Utilize higher register and contrapuntal melodies to create two instruments playing at once.
Experiment with different keys and open strings for a new sound. With practice, you can master the art of blues turnarounds.
Techniques and Examples for Turnarounds 7-10
Now that you’ve mastered the techniques and examples for turnarounds 1-6, it’s time to move onto turnarounds 7-10.
These turnarounds are in the style of delta blues and lead guitar, with triplets and chromatic movements to create an expressive atmosphere.
Try using higher register and slide guitar techniques, as well as major and minor chords for a truly delta blues feel.
To finish your turnarounds off, end with classic blues chords. You’ll be able to add a unique touch to your track and create a truly unforgettable delta blues atmosphere.
Techniques and Examples for Turnaround 11
This turnaround utilizes a combination of string skipping and hammer-on techniques to achieve a unique sound.
Starting with a descending string skipping pattern, you can use the barred chord for the root note and then hammer-on the third fret of the high E string for a major chord sound.
This creates a distinct sound that will add a great finishing touch to your blues track.
Practice this turnaround with different tempos and chord voicings to get a feel for the technique.
With practice, you’ll be able to incorporate this turnaround into your blues tracks with ease.
Techniques and Examples for Turnarounds 12-15
Discover how to play turnarounds 12-15 with their unique slide guitar styles and lead lines. Incorporating bottleneck slide techniques, learn to create an expressive blues atmosphere with these turnarounds.
Take your playing to the next level by exploring contrapuntal melodies in blues turnarounds. Turnaround 12 uses a triplet feel at a higher register, transitioning into a lead guitar line. Utilizing the A minor pentatonic scale with an added major 3rd, it provides a bottleneck slide style sound.
Turnaround 13 uses ascending dyads and a constant note on the 9th fret of G, ending with Hendrix chords.
Turnaround 14 employs a contrapuntal melody in E minor, creating the illusion of two instruments playing. Finish with an E7 chord.
Turnaround 15 transposes the contrapuntal melody to A minor and includes stretches. End with a A7 chord, which can be substituted with an open position A7.
With these turnarounds, create the perfect blues atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Difference Between a Turnaround and an Intro/Outro?
A turnaround is a musical phrase used to transition between sections of a song. It usually involves comping patterns and rhythmic variation, while an intro/outro is a more static phrase that introduces or concludes a song. Both can add interest and creativity to your music.
How Do I Use a Turnaround to Improvise a Solo?
Try experimenting with chords and understanding the grooves to improvise a solo. Use different turnarounds to explore a range of sounds. Experiment with different styles and techniques to create your own unique solo. Have fun and be creative!
What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Playing Turnarounds?
When playing turnarounds, avoid sloppy fretting technique and lack of rhythm variation. Keep your fingers close to the fretboard and practice using different strumming and picking patterns. Incorporate slides, chordal patterns, and string skipping to create interesting and dynamic turnarounds.
What Are the Benefits of Learning Different Turnarounds?
Practicing different turnarounds can help you understand musical theory and develop techniques for improvisation, expression, and creativity. With consistent practice, you’ll quickly become comfortable with the fretboard and be able to play with more confidence.
How Can I Apply Turnarounds to Other Styles of Music?
You can apply turnarounds to other styles of music by creating hybrid styles, combining elements of blues turnarounds with chord progressions from other genres. Experiment to create unique sounds and create your own original music.
Conclusion
You now have the tools to become a pro at blues turnarounds. With a little practice and a lot of patience, you can use the techniques and examples you’ve learned in this article to create your own unique turnarounds.
So grab your blues guitar and get ready to master the art of blues turnarounds! With practice and dedication, you’ll be jamming like a pro in no time.
Boyko has been playing the electric guitar since teenager. With more than 15 years of experience, numerous concerts, gigs and recorded songs, he is your Go to source for anything related to electric guitars and heavy metal.