Chord Melody FUN-damentals: A Creative Exploration of Solo Jazz Guitar Concepts, Phrases, and Techniques Paperback – March 27, 2025

Unlock the Creative World of Chord Melody with Chord Melody FUN-damentalsRenowned jazz guitarist Bruce Forman invites you on an immersive journey through the art of chord melody. Rather than a rigid method, this book is a playground for the curious musician—offering creative pathways to explore, discover, and develop your own artistic voice.Explore the Secrets of Chord MelodyThis book distills decades of knowledge into practical, accessible concepts designed to help you unlock the fretboard, enhance your improvisation, and develop a deeper musical connection. Forman draws from his extensive career alongside jazz greats like Ray Brown, Bobby Hutcherson, and Roger Kellaway, as well as his work on Clint Eastwood’s Oscar-winning Million Dollar Baby, to bring you an authentic and deeply personal approach to chord melody.What You’ll Discover:Melodic Prioritization – Learn why melody is king and how to make your chord melody lines truly sing.Essential Voicings & Zones – Master fretboard visualization using a jazz-oriented approach to the CAGED system.Classic Moves & Techniques – Explore the legendary Kessel, Pass, and Garland moves, plus insights from Wes Montgomery.Block Chords & Voice Leading – Develop expressive phrasing inspired by big band arranging.Two-Note Harmonization & Comping for Yourself – Expand your chord-melody toolkit beyond traditional block chords.Deceptive Cadences & Substitutions – Open new harmonic doors with unexpected resolutions.5 Etudes on Essential Standards – Apply these concepts directly to jazz classics like Autumn Leaves, How High the Moon, and Honeysuckle Rose.A Journey, Not Just a MethodThis book isn’t a set of rules—it’s an invitation to experiment, personalize, and evolve your approach. With Bruce’s engaging and insightful guidance, you’ll gain not only technical knowledge but also the confidence to craft your own chord-melody style.Includes:Essential Moves, Shapes, and ConceptsFive Etudes to Study and Master.Downloadable Audio, Video, and GuitarPro files.Insights from a true master.Pick up your copy today and embark on a chord-melody adventure that will transform your playing! Read more