How To Arrange Chords into BEAUTIFUL 4-PART HARMONIES [Music Theory - Voice Leading]

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  • Опубликовано: 22 дек 2024

Комментарии • 2,1 тыс.

  • @deadSalesman_GD
    @deadSalesman_GD 2 года назад +1363

    Music degree here: neighbor tones don’t have to be half steps. The neighbor tones for C are B, Bb, Db, and D. In the key of C major B and D are diatonic neighbor tones and Bb and Db are chromatic neighbor tones. They all sound great but definitely have a different flavor.
    Also I’m definitely not trying to “um actually” you just want to add a little information so that if people are trying make neighbor tones work but the half steps aren’t giving them what they want they can try whole steps.

    • @SignalsMusicStudio
      @SignalsMusicStudio  2 года назад +298

      Good point - I should have specified "chromatic neighbor tones". thank you!

    • @deadSalesman_GD
      @deadSalesman_GD 2 года назад +137

      @@SignalsMusicStudio of course. I love your videos. They definitely provide a different perspective than what’s given in music school and you also cover a lot of topics that music school doesn’t touch on at all or just glosses over. Like modes. Music school basically just goes “modes of the major scale exist. All the white keys D to D is Dorian, E to E, etc. Okay moving on.” That’s it. We never discuss them again. So yeah I love what you’re doing.

    • @SignalsMusicStudio
      @SignalsMusicStudio  2 года назад +116

      @@deadSalesman_GD Thanks again! I was shocked when i discussed modes with all the pedigreed teachers at my music shop and they didn't understand what they were actuall all about, they thought it was simply D to D like you described. I think the jazz schools are better at teaching it the other way :)

    • @letterborneVods
      @letterborneVods 2 года назад +29

      @@deadSalesman_GD we only ever talked about major and harmonic minor 😅 until this channel I thought harmonic minor was just the normal, regular minor scale ...
      I only did five years of music school though.

    • @acousticmonkey2209
      @acousticmonkey2209 2 года назад +7

      @@deadSalesman_GD I can attest to this modes conversation. My partner is a piano teacher and when I have asked about it, I received the standard "It's D to D, E to E, etc. Really you don't need to worry about it" answer because that's what they were taught. I learned it all from here.

  • @lakejizzio7777
    @lakejizzio7777 2 года назад +849

    Jake we DEFINITELY need more videos about voice leading. You are the best teacher on RUclips. Cheers!

    • @SignalsMusicStudio
      @SignalsMusicStudio  2 года назад +102

      Yeesh i hate to break it to you but this is one of those topics that I really can't teach at a high level! At least not yet... maybe in a few years :P

    • @lakejizzio7777
      @lakejizzio7777 2 года назад +15

      @@SignalsMusicStudio I just wanna learn how to resolve into chords that are not in the scale. Because I need it for the song I'm writing :P. I tried your Diminished portal trick but it doesn't feel smooth enough.

    • @Bubba-zu6yr
      @Bubba-zu6yr 2 года назад +10

      @@lakejizzio7777, try to avoid parallel fifths and octaves and look for half-step resolutions from chord to chord. I teach comp and there is a lot to it but w/out putting up a dissertation these two things will get you started. Contrary motion in your lines would be another aesthetically pleasing staple as well. Good luck!

    • @123jkjk123
      @123jkjk123 2 года назад +4

      @@lakejizzio7777 I like ​ @Bubba 's advice. Also inversions are a big help for me and could help smooth out the melodies leading to resolutions.

    • @Krieghandt
      @Krieghandt 2 года назад +1

      @@123jkjk123 I live and die by Neapolitan and augmented 6th chords :)

  • @OneFingerSnap
    @OneFingerSnap Год назад +389

    So sad about lack of new content on this channel, he makes really cool stuff, one of my favourites…

    • @JustAnother_Irishman
      @JustAnother_Irishman Год назад +31

      I have been watching for new content.
      This channel really is a wonderful resource for learning.
      I hope Jake is in good health.

    • @tooofart
      @tooofart Год назад +21

      He's active on Patreon, so probably just busy

    • @aaronaragon7838
      @aaronaragon7838 Год назад +69

      A lot of these You Tube musicians are looking for other revenue generating avenues, Patreon etc. It looks like the era of totally free content is ending...can't blame them; they gotta make a living somehow, and music is poverty row for 99% of them.

    • @jhopkins213
      @jhopkins213 Год назад +1

      @@tooofart He hasn't done anything on Patreon for almost a month.

    • @Guitar_Wolf
      @Guitar_Wolf Год назад +7

      True story bruh, my favorite music teacher

  • @1952TeleDude
    @1952TeleDude 2 года назад +307

    I’m 69 years old. I’ve made my living as a musician all my life.
    When I studied music in College it was interesting but dry. I could never find ways to apply the theory.
    The way you teach brings it to life plus you break down your material in a logical and practical way.
    You cover a good chunk of what would be a full quarter or semister class in 20 min.
    Really well done.
    I remember getting an F any time I used parallel 5ths in composition class although I used them all night onstage. Lol.
    Very very first class site.

    • @fettifuego
      @fettifuego 2 года назад +2

      Can you tell me what it was that you studied I wanna go back to school and get a degree in music but I really don’t know what kind of degree I want to get

    • @1952TeleDude
      @1952TeleDude 2 года назад +13

      @@fettifuego
      This was in 1970 so I’m sure it’s very different now.
      We had a theory class and a harmony class each day.
      We had note and rhythm class and a sight reading class.
      We had a composition class plus orchestra big band and small jazz group classes.
      It was a lot of work.
      I was focused on performance and composition with a minor in math and English.
      I like the idea of a music education degree now or a composition focus.
      I really don’t know what they call these paths now.
      The digital recording and production Would be a great focus.
      There are many doors open.
      The one thing my dad made me do was to do all my GE classes in the first two years including summer school.
      My last two years were a breeze.
      These days with all the digital stuff you would take many classes I know nothing about.
      I think this would be an exciting time to study music.
      Go for it.
      Don’t forget to look at your local 2 year colleges too as they can be a stepping Stone and the are usually cheaper.
      Get a real accredited degree.
      If you can work to pay your tuition do it. Try not to get into student loan debt.
      It would be hard work but worth it.
      Good luck in your endeavors.
      Ask any questions you wish to ask.

    • @JamesJones-mm2nm
      @JamesJones-mm2nm 2 года назад

      By now you probably do it subconsciously! I know I do. And by ear!

    • @mybrainisdum
      @mybrainisdum 2 года назад

      @@fettifuego you mean you just heard how much of a waste of time it was and how much more efficient this youtube video is
      but you want to go and join that crappy school 😅

    • @fettifuego
      @fettifuego 2 года назад +1

      @@mybrainisdum everybody learns different personally me I have terrible motivation but when I’m in school I tend to focus better

  • @ziffman798
    @ziffman798 Год назад +161

    Where are you Jake? Are you ok? You’ve helped many people, we, I look forward to more musical knowledge from you. Hope you are well….

    • @CameronsMusic
      @CameronsMusic 11 месяцев назад +6

      He's back! He left to write a book on song writing, music theory, etc.,

    • @adonisvowsen
      @adonisvowsen 10 месяцев назад +2

      ​@@CameronsMusicThat guy was Amazing! Glad he's ok! 👍🏾

  • @lebecccomputer287
    @lebecccomputer287 2 года назад +12

    This is hands down the single best tutorial on anything music related I have ever seen.
    You managed to take me from knowing very little about chord progressions to being able to create what sounds like a professional song using voice leading in just 20 minutes. Absolutely incredible dude! Please keep making these!

  • @basilmusicproduction
    @basilmusicproduction 2 года назад +71

    In my opinion you are the best music educator on RUclips. As a “composer” I really enjoy the mathematical problem solving aspects of arranging.

  • @SignalsMusicStudio
    @SignalsMusicStudio  2 года назад +22

    As always- CHECK THE DESCRIPTION! Lots of extra info in there :)

    • @jaybefaulky4902
      @jaybefaulky4902 2 года назад

      great vid dude!!

    • @aniruddhdeshpande7319
      @aniruddhdeshpande7319 2 года назад

      How is this comment older than the video upload time?

    • @jaybefaulky4902
      @jaybefaulky4902 2 года назад +1

      @@aniruddhdeshpande7319 yeah lol .. the only thing i can think of is he uploaded and pinned the comment with a release date set for 2 days after as well so it says 'upload' but really means 'release date' (i am guessing lol)

    • @satchrules101
      @satchrules101 2 года назад

      ur the best song writing teacher !

    • @SignalsMusicStudio
      @SignalsMusicStudio  2 года назад +1

      @@aniruddhdeshpande7319 Released to my Patreon's early :)

  • @JamesBond-zd5jx
    @JamesBond-zd5jx 2 года назад +11

    An amazing feeling when you see all the things that you’ve learned coming together to make total sense.

  • @DavidErickRamos
    @DavidErickRamos 2 года назад +25

    Very easy to follow along, thanks for the excellent tutorial!

  • @EmceeHolden
    @EmceeHolden 2 года назад +124

    "The truth is, a lot of composing is like engineering". As an engineer trying to learn this stuff, that was very encouraging to hear! All your videos are amazing but this was one of your best.

    • @laniakea1501
      @laniakea1501 2 года назад

      x2

    • @user-oy7gz5bf2h
      @user-oy7gz5bf2h 2 года назад

      It's also where I struggled first. The engineering part felt overwhelming and at odds with what I was doing early on. A sort of right brain/left brain gymnastic that's not natural to me.

    • @royjohnson3361
      @royjohnson3361 2 года назад +5

      As another engineer, I like how music theory can help provide a framework for problem solving in music. What I find are bits and pieces, what I want is a comprehensive source for them.

    • @user-oy7gz5bf2h
      @user-oy7gz5bf2h 2 года назад

      @@royjohnson3361 Look at Rick Beato's channel. He has lots of free information. He also sells a pdf book of his. (former College professor turned producer, now RUclipsr)

    • @YamahaE463
      @YamahaE463 2 года назад +1

      Builders of all types - from rabbit cages to condos will relate and LOVE IT.

  • @SceneComparisons
    @SceneComparisons 2 года назад +64

    I use melodyne to do vocal arrangements all the time
    I record the leading voice as I composed, then I copy to another track, change the notes on melodyne, then learn the new melody and sing
    I made a 16 vocal arrangement with this technique easily without any repeated melody
    it's a nice way to use melodyne as a creative tool instead simply as a correction tool

  • @djstraathof
    @djstraathof 2 года назад +72

    I've been trying to learn how to orchestrate. I learned more from this one video than I have from countless others I have watched. You are doing great work, thank you!

    • @YouTw1tFace
      @YouTw1tFace 2 года назад +1

      Same. I’m two years behind thanks to not finding this video!

  • @ImNotQualifiedToSayThisBut
    @ImNotQualifiedToSayThisBut Год назад +94

    Quick update for anyone who's interested in where he disappeared to: He's currently working on his book on chords and focused on Patreon content it seems (live lessons and such).

    • @psylopanda2841
      @psylopanda2841 Год назад +7

      Glad he's ok, with new projects and teaching, he's great at it.

    • @jwardbass4452
      @jwardbass4452 Год назад +6

      I’m surprised he hasn’t posted a quick update video since that’s the case, but I’m glad he’s doin alright.

    • @HeegeMcGee
      @HeegeMcGee Год назад +3

      Honestly that's perfect, i learned a lot from Jake about chords, i'd love a book from him on the subject.

  • @Jenisonc
    @Jenisonc 2 года назад +21

    The melody reminds me of "I got a name." By Jim Croce. Fantastic stuff and I can't thank you enough. You always give such insite and depth in your lessons. Your love for what you do is evident. Thanks!

  • @stefan-d.grigorescu
    @stefan-d.grigorescu 2 года назад +21

    This is one of my favorite concepts in music composition, I like creating melodies that express emotion on their own and also fit a larger frame, making harmony together

  • @arealgoodguy
    @arealgoodguy 2 года назад +9

    So that's why there's so many violinists in an orchestra. To play chords. You answered a question I hadn't thought of yet.

    • @michaelduff2382
      @michaelduff2382 2 года назад +2

      Except for soloists, in an orchestra it's really more for volume that they have so many!

    • @arealgoodguy
      @arealgoodguy 2 года назад

      @@michaelduff2382 - Oh I see.

    • @nyetliu
      @nyetliu 2 года назад

      Usually at most 3 maybe 4 parts, usually only 2 in the violin section. Add viola and cello though..

  • @ChrisMuellerMusic
    @ChrisMuellerMusic 2 года назад +4

    Being an engineer by profession and a hobbyist composer that struggles with coming up with music, hearing that composing is a bit like puzzle solving in engineering really motivated me :)

  • @Crowbar11115
    @Crowbar11115 Год назад +45

    For anyone like me, trying to figure out if Jake is OK/where he's been, he's been posting on Patreon!

    • @INCAnitysy
      @INCAnitysy Год назад +3

      Has he been posting posting? Like actual content?

  • @homework1775
    @homework1775 Год назад +11

    Where did you go? You're the best music channel on RUclips!

  • @JKenjiLopezAlt
    @JKenjiLopezAlt 2 года назад +261

    Love the video as usual. A violinist would have trouble playing the F below middle C though 😂

    • @deadSalesman_GD
      @deadSalesman_GD 2 года назад +18

      Love to see Kenji here. I’m laughing at the idea of super downtuned violin.

    • @MrMd5555
      @MrMd5555 2 года назад +17

      It seems like A major problem at its Root but We C sharp you are & I'm sure a work around would only b minor treble for you!!
      Now I'll excuse myself & jump off a clef....
      Now Im feeling a little flat

    • @naxaes7889
      @naxaes7889 2 года назад +59

      Violinists just see problems... We guitarists however only see solutions! 8 note chord? BAM! Slam on two additional strings. Basist present (or not present)? BAM! Tune down four steps. Want excessive vibrato? BAM! Slap on a whammy bar. Need to project your insecurities? BAM! Critize other instrumentalists in the RUclips comment section.

    • @metalboy5150
      @metalboy5150 2 года назад +5

      @@naxaes7889 You might be my hero.

    • @dicecard921
      @dicecard921 2 года назад +4

      You're probably the last person I expected to see in the comments here ;o

  • @michaelleeepley
    @michaelleeepley 2 года назад +13

    The instructional birds-eye-view you maintain throughout this lesson is absolutely top-notch. From one educator to another - you are a gifted teacher. Thank you for sharing!

  • @s3nsec0rruptr80
    @s3nsec0rruptr80 2 года назад +23

    Every time I watch one of your videos I feel like not only do I understand music theory in a practical useful way more than I did before, but I also can't wait to close the video and go experiment with the ideas I just learned. Really inspiring!

    • @s3nsec0rruptr80
      @s3nsec0rruptr80 2 года назад +1

      Also the last seconds of composing "from the soul" versus "paint by numbers"... that's how I've made music for years. Surprise, I mostly have written punk and some synth stuff where it's punk with beeps and bloops (and if the progression got used before, just use different bloops). Lately I've been looking for that meeting of the two more and your channel not only teaches the theory but shows how to use it artistically, and I couldn't love it more.

  • @mrblablablabla
    @mrblablablabla 2 года назад +114

    Man, that removing the 5th from chords trick really is great. I especially like it on power chords. I can easily play any progression that way!

    • @alexcastillo6185
      @alexcastillo6185 2 года назад +5

      😂

    • @arcaears
      @arcaears 2 года назад +37

      If you take it a step further and remove the 1, you can really get into some advanced stuff!

    • @mrblablablabla
      @mrblablablabla 2 года назад +16

      @@arcaears amazing! With this trick, it seems like there are no limits anymore.

    • @gitsurfer27
      @gitsurfer27 2 года назад +10

      That's how i taught my students to play any song instantly, just play power chords, remove the unnecessary 5th, then omit the lower bass voice, finally add an upper extension, and then quickly remove it again for convenience (this isn't jazz we don't need it)....if you follow these steps the sky really is the limit! I charge $50ph for lessons if you're interested.

    • @gitsurfer27
      @gitsurfer27 2 года назад

      @@buzzin-hornet Joke

  • @robertcanedo7607
    @robertcanedo7607 2 года назад +3

    having just started my musical journey...at the ripe age of 72; I can definitely benefit from your in-depth, sensible approach to MAKING ,instead of copying music! Thank you!

  • @JYelton
    @JYelton 2 года назад +126

    I really like your approach to these topics. You definitely distill it into a much easier concept to get started with. I have previously avoided this topic somewhat because it always got very (unnecessarily?) complex for a beginner. Thanks!

    • @aniruddhdeshpande7319
      @aniruddhdeshpande7319 2 года назад +3

      It says the video was uploaded 5 hours ago but your comment is 3 days old🧐

    • @JYelton
      @JYelton 2 года назад +5

      @@aniruddhdeshpande7319 Patreon supporters get an early release date.

    • @heart_healer
      @heart_healer 2 года назад

      Just dive in.Make.mistskes and learn . Don't be afraid of music sounding bad. The more you practise the better you will be at a 4 part harmony and the entire.cincept in general. If you are interested in orchestral music or arranging for a string quartet , there are a few good books on the roles of the instruments.
      You just need to understand the strength and weakness of the instrument and balance them when arranging for harmony. All 4 instrument playing in their strongest register will muddle up.its a balance of counter alance and balance.
      Don't be afraid..music is wl encompassing..keep practising.
      This one of Jakes video is just amazing. It is one of the best made on this topic. Even better than the dry videos some. other well known channels publish.
      Any mistakes he might have said are purely to make it easier to comprehend .
      And it is just gives an additional benefit to further your knowledge when you read and compose and know that there are multiple ways to achieve this.
      Jake sir...you are a genius

  • @liquidsolids9415
    @liquidsolids9415 2 года назад +48

    Once again, a fantastic and easy-to-understand explanation of a topic that seems daunting and complicated. Well done. Thanks, Jake!

  • @CrowMagnumMan2024
    @CrowMagnumMan2024 2 года назад +6

    Thanks Jake......you unlock so much for guitar players who never had a decent teacher and learned by ear......plus you present it in a way that is easy to understand......a lot of books and instructors in the old days were vague and focused on chord forms and scales but no practical application......YOU ROCK !!!!

  • @4BarCafe
    @4BarCafe 4 месяца назад

    I was really happy to hear you say that there can be a significant amount of "problem solving" goes in the process of composing. As a relatively new composer, I've had the (pleasant) experience of building pieces based on what I know about music theory and principles. You make great videos. Thanks!

  • @saxmusicmail
    @saxmusicmail 2 года назад +8

    The 5th is a powerful overtone of the root of the chord. It is "heard" in the mind even when not actually played. I write mostly for saxophone quartet. Leaving out the 5th at times leaves me an instrument available for 6th's, 7th's, 9th's, 11th's, etc. And yes, voice leading is most important. In one of my arrangements the ending is a duet, and pauses on a minor second, but due to the voice leading an tone progression it is heard as a harmony, despite it being dissonant when played in isolation. One comment many people make about my arrangements and compositions, "It sounds like much more than just four instruments."

    • @gsleazy1975
      @gsleazy1975 2 года назад

      Giving the room around the 7ths is my favorite place as well. I'll be thinking about how I can bridge multiple instruments over that gap where the power chord usually exists but this variation allows hardcore multiplier factors in the regular sense. I also want to engage in the harmony adding the "extras in ensemble". Awesome tip.

    • @YamahaE463
      @YamahaE463 2 года назад

      Outstanding!!🥰

  • @MaggaraMarine
    @MaggaraMarine 2 года назад +36

    When it comes to the "rules vs inspiration" thing in the end, I think it's also good to keep in mind that once one has practiced these techniques a lot, they become an intuitive part of their "musical vocabulary", and it's not stuff that they really need to think that much about. Anyone who can "just feel it" has internalized a lot of "rules"/common practices just through playing songs - they know intuitively what sounds good. Inspiration isn't completely random - it's based on certain internalized patterns.
    People who go to music school simply learn this stuff more in depth, and also internalize it so that they can actually feel where the music wants to go and not think about stuff like "well, over this chord I'm supposed to double that note, and here I'm not supposed to do this", etc. - so, it isn't as "mathematical" as people may think (even though studying the concepts may seem more like playing with numbers than writing music). All in all, you want to know this stuff so well that you don't need to think about it too much. But also having the tools so that you can use them when needed is pretty useful too.
    But yes, composition can sometimes be kind of a puzzle. Many times inspiration doesn't last so long that you are just going to write the whole song with a complete arrangement without having to think about anything. Most people don't just magically hear every single note in their composition beforehand. A lot of the time it takes some experimentation and trying different ideas and developing them into something that sounds complete. A full piece doesn't just appear into composers' minds at random. Even Mozart wrote sketches and developed his ideas (even though people commonly have the idea that he just heard full symphonies in his head, and then wrote them down).

  • @heart_healer
    @heart_healer 2 года назад +10

    This was probably the best tutorial On a 4 part harmony ever and arranging them. Not only useful for guitars but for arranging for a string quartet or solo section also.
    Thank you so much Jake your tremendous effort and the imprint you leave on us . Some are just born to teach and you Sir are a born teacher!! Thank you for all the good you do to the world!!
    Love from India

    • @YamahaE463
      @YamahaE463 2 года назад

      Applying the concept of imprinting to brain power and music study. Well said.

  • @UmVtCg
    @UmVtCg 2 года назад +9

    18:00 I've already found that E7 because I like to take a chord progression and practice it in all CAGED and triad shapes on the neck of the guitar. By doing this I try to find the smallest movements between chords because I found that sounds great. Now I know why. I also like to "find" other scale intervals in each chord creating awareness of the fretboard.

  • @thebaconbreadful
    @thebaconbreadful 2 года назад +4

    Wow. Im mostly a electronic producer and play VERY basic things on the guitar but the way a guitar is build always makes for a intresting way to think about melodies and especially chords to me. You really opened up this way of thinking a lot more for me. Thank you. This is not just a good guitar tutorial but a brilliant music tutorial.

  • @adilsonuejo4434
    @adilsonuejo4434 2 года назад +1

    I'm Brazilian, I live in Japan, I'm a musician at church on weekends, I spend a lot of time studying music, but the simplicity of your explanation blew my mind, made me see the chords in a different way, thank you, really thank you, I'm going use in all shades!

  • @MWPandD
    @MWPandD 2 года назад +9

    Non-music degree here: This was such a helpful explanation of voice leading and arranging. I actually think I'll be able to hear music more deeply, and that really excites me. Mille grazie, my friend!

    • @YamahaE463
      @YamahaE463 2 года назад

      That's the power of love. The secret to playing any musical instrument and composing is about the power of listening. More listening>more understanding.

  • @WeyounSix
    @WeyounSix 2 года назад +8

    As a guitar player, using triad shapes up and down the neck really starts to help with voice leading

  • @fingerstyledojo
    @fingerstyledojo 2 года назад +7

    Day: is a 5/10
    Jake uploads a video:
    Day becomes a 10/10
    thanks my man you leveled me up from beginner to intermediate player

  • @XenoFect
    @XenoFect Год назад +3

    Joining the crowd to check on Jake and make sure he is doing ok. We miss you! Thank you for all the content, you've helped me learn so much!

  • @sofiaprietoandreu
    @sofiaprietoandreu Год назад +3

    As a guitar player, in my endless try to learn music theory I can do nothing but THANK YOU for this. Wow! Finally someone teaching real music for guitar players on the internet.

    • @EmpyreanLightASMR
      @EmpyreanLightASMR Год назад

      i was hoping you'd have guitar videos on your channel! :)

  • @MelgarejosueMusic
    @MelgarejosueMusic 2 года назад +9

    Thanks Jake! I had a lot of problems understanding voice leading but this video helped me a lot! I'm sure that im not the only self taught person that gets a lot of resources from your content! I really hope your channel reaches more people and becomes bigger.
    Thanks a lot for everything!

  • @philm.6113
    @philm.6113 2 года назад +16

    As always - Presented in a positive/fun/captivating style.
    Great stuff! Thank you.

  • @gm5542
    @gm5542 2 года назад +45

    Jake is right, voice leading is like figuring out a puzzle.
    I'd just like to add that I see the rules more as warnings and shortcuts rather than things that will limit you.
    You may find this rules by accident when writing your music, and knowing the rules beforehand may save you a lot of time figuring out why something isn't sounding good.

  • @andresherrera4158
    @andresherrera4158 2 года назад

    ....and this is what happens when you add knowledge to passion....and there's no better way to rebel against "rules" than knowing them so well that you can actually break them and explain why. Thanks man, you gave me the best 22 minutes in music at no cost whatsoever; the true definition of "priceless".

  • @Web4Panama
    @Web4Panama Год назад +4

    Your instruction videos were amazing and will, I hope, persist as an available source of education. Updates are missed but thanks for the amazing work you have already done. Tim

  • @G-Doggy
    @G-Doggy 2 года назад +4

    Really informative video. I've been writing vocal harmonies this way for awhile, but it never dawned on me to try it with guitar chords or even separate guitar leads (now I'm wondering why I didn't think of it). It makes perfect sense. Thank you!

  • @michaelinglis8516
    @michaelinglis8516 2 года назад +4

    Wow perfect timing! I've started to get my voice leading down really well and its opened so so so many doors. Theres so many ways to voice lead and it really was the holy grail for me. Now all my chord progressions and by proxy my arpeggios sound much more interesting and satisfying. I wish I'd realized this sooner. I've known about voice leading for a decade but it didn't make a difference until I really started using voice leading and inversions for all my progressions rather than reverting to the easy chord options in typical fingerings and positions. Anyways this video was perfect timing. I might know this stuff now but reinforcing concepts is never a bad idea. If anyone is reading this that doesnt use voice leading I cant tell you enough how much learning to voice lead will improve your writing, playing and comprehension skills. If you are scratching your head trying to make your progressions and even lead playing (through arpeggios) sound like the music you love then start trying to implement voice leading whenever possible. Without voice leading it's like speaking like a robot. But with voice leading it's like speaking smoothly and fluently. Anyways this was a great topic and video as always. Jake does killer videos that I wish I had 20 years ago when I started playing but even now I get a lot out of them. Keep them coming Jake!

  • @michaelcartner4246
    @michaelcartner4246 2 года назад +5

    This very well presented. The various graphics and combination of guitar and DAW makes it approachable and fun. Also, the "make it into music" section is fantastic. Inspiring and eye-opening.

  • @transmundanemusic
    @transmundanemusic 2 года назад +1

    Hands down the all time best YT music teacher, and it's not even close. Absolutely top notch content.

  • @bassboy8910
    @bassboy8910 10 месяцев назад

    There are always people who want to disapprove of any & everything someone so talented as you bring. Why? I’ll never understand, sad really. this video is one of the best and easiest ways to learn. very good ! I am a 74 y/o music professional who has played concerts & toured all over the world and I love your positive ways. Please keep us who are open minded in your loop. I can’t wait to learn and refresh even more! All my best to you 🤩

  • @zebediahzwick2664
    @zebediahzwick2664 2 года назад +47

    I think your final comments about how music can sometimes be a bit of an engineering or a problem solving exercise are really interesting. I have to admit, that for a long time I shunned using mechanical methods of composing/songwriting, because I felt like everything should come naturally e.g. from improvisation. It was a very romanticised view of the creative process. It has certainly worked for me a few times, but it's inconsistent, and unreliable. If your creative process is dependant on divine inspiration from the ether, your productive output is likely to be limited.
    One thing I'd say though, is that the engineering/problem solving approach to composition doesn't have to be divorced from that sense of romantic creativity. Each time you solve one of these musical problems, you will end up with some type of sound. As you listen to those sounds, you can consider for yourself how it makes you feel, what emotions it brings up, and how it resonates with you. You might find that whilst you created something through a mechanical process, the result still inspires something meaningful within you. I find that thinking this way helps me to feel more connected to the music making - it's not always about creating from scratch, sometimes it's about exploration and discovery.

    • @watermarq
      @watermarq 2 года назад +2

      Great insight! Sincerely.

    • @StrangeAttractor
      @StrangeAttractor 2 года назад +2

      'write drunk, edit sober' - Ernest Hemingway. You don't have to be drunk, of course, you can just be brimming with "divine" inspiration. But creating truly musical, distinctive, finished tracks is a much more methodical, sober process. It takes me a couple of days to write something, but a couple of months to get the composition and audio engineering right.

    • @curcumin417
      @curcumin417 2 года назад

      Great view of the creative process!

  • @graemevaughey7432
    @graemevaughey7432 2 года назад +6

    Nice. I've been watching Jacob Gran's video series on _Tonal Voice Leading_ recently, where he starts with Baroque counterpoint exercises for two voices, three voices and four voices, and builds up to the more modern chord notation. It is interesting to see an approach from the opposite direction: starting with a basic chord progression and breaking it down into individual voices. Great video. Thanks.

  • @CarbideShrapnel
    @CarbideShrapnel 2 года назад +4

    Your teaching of musical theory has helped me to understand how and why things work(better). I have been able to start solo venturing and making things sound pretty rather than random. It is starting to make sense more and more and I believe your videos have been a major factor so I want to say thanks and I appreciate your work. Barely half through this video and playing with this stuff sounds great on the keyboard.

  • @JCardoso-j9l
    @JCardoso-j9l Год назад +1

    This is effectively the BEST music theory/practical related video on RUclips that I’ve ever watched and believe me I watched hundreds already.
    Thank you very much Signal Music Studio 🙏🏻

  • @Jimmy_Thump
    @Jimmy_Thump 2 года назад +1

    This was the single most helpful theory video I've watched. It just blew my mind how easy it made sense in practice.

  • @johndeggendorf7826
    @johndeggendorf7826 2 года назад +75

    That was a beautiful & accessible presentation of the fundamentals of voice leading. Why didn’t you make it dry, boring, and overly complicated? You’ll never get tenured this way! 🤔 Awesome. ✊☕️🎩

  • @grock605
    @grock605 2 года назад +4

    I have been watching your content for years! You’re a fantastic communicator and I appreciate all the effort that goes into your videos! Great lesson thank you :)

  • @scrapkingfilms
    @scrapkingfilms 2 года назад +71

    Melody sounds like Oasis “Don’t Look Back in Anger”, which is almost certainly a reimagined chamber music chord sequence… great work here, using different instruments and visual tools to explain something that might seem shrouded in “theory”. You got me, subscribed!

    • @richmerlino6480
      @richmerlino6480 2 года назад +8

      This is the comment I was looking for. Thank you!

    • @andrositee
      @andrositee 2 года назад +2

      Right???? Yes.

    • @DrGodinho
      @DrGodinho 2 года назад +3

      it's Pachebel's Canon in D major

    • @fanfanackapan
      @fanfanackapan 2 года назад +1

      I recognised Don't Look Back In Anger as well. Love Oasis :)

    • @cozgreenhalgh9516
      @cozgreenhalgh9516 2 года назад

      The mad thing is although I clearly got DLBIA I could also hear in my head the strings from “Whatever” sounding good over the top of it!

  • @Wielorybkek
    @Wielorybkek 2 года назад +1

    Finally I understand voice leading! It makes playing around with chord progressions so much more interesting and intricate.

  • @zzzut
    @zzzut 10 месяцев назад +3

    Your spoken voice is like butter! ❤

  • @i.setyawan
    @i.setyawan 2 года назад +5

    I can't believe that such an elementary or simple chord progression could become a quasi classical, or bluegrass, or rock ballad piece. Amazing.

  • @CrazyQ6930
    @CrazyQ6930 2 года назад +5

    I've done these things by hear before, but it's great to to have some awareness of what is happening and makes it easier to find possible directions and conclusions. Thanks this was GREAT!

  • @courtneycoconuts
    @courtneycoconuts 2 года назад +3

    This video is incredible! I was having a hard time coming up with ways to make my chords more creative and this has changed the game for me. The graphics and visuals were spot on here and really simplified how to recognize different motion when composing. Loveeeeeee your content! So well explained!

  • @noahlee6292
    @noahlee6292 2 года назад

    Holy crap I can’t believe I actually found a music teaching channel that is actually applicable and helpful. Smashed that subscribe button

  • @mwendabaikalaluka9685
    @mwendabaikalaluka9685 Год назад

    You are one of the greatest musicians/ music teachers. A lot of people can play and play well, but takes knowledge and passion to be able to explain like Jake does and make sense of music, one then appreciates music as both an art as well as science

  • @letterborneVods
    @letterborneVods 2 года назад +35

    I had a year of harmony classes, and damn, was that exhausting. I’m happy I had them, but it was also destroying me inside 😅 figuring out those 4 voices for just one line already took me hours! I had exercises like they only provided the bass or the soprano and you first had to figure out the right chords, then the voices, all while remembering to have the right and most logical motion for all of them and following rules like always resolve the leading tone, no parallel fifths or octaves, no too big leaps, have voices that remain relatively still, avoid parallel motion between bass and soprano … the list goes on 😵
    Rules are there to break, but I definitely believe you have to learn them first to break them right!

    • @yoloyo7019
      @yoloyo7019 2 года назад +2

      Very cool comment. I really shoulda gone to music school, sounds fascinating

    • @letterborneVods
      @letterborneVods 2 года назад +6

      @@yoloyo7019 thanks! I don’t know the system in other countries, but I had five years of regular music theory school (mandatory if you learn an instrument, I play violin), and then I chose to try out these harmony classes because I’m really interested in composing. There were many more years to take afterwards and I would have done them, but it just got too stressful next to high school, so I didn’t.
      Luckily there are so many people out there sharing their knowledge for free (or way more affordable than music school), like this channel, so I can continue learning and avoid the other problems!

    • @jackb1218
      @jackb1218 2 года назад +1

      Great comment. Did you notice the parallel 5ths near the start of this video?

    • @letterborneVods
      @letterborneVods 2 года назад

      @@jackb1218 yeah 😅

  • @kabudahtv331
    @kabudahtv331 2 года назад +9

    I love what you do, Jake! Could you do more music production videos? I really love those! Happy Valentines Day! Keep up the awesome videos!

  • @amokopera
    @amokopera 2 года назад +3

    When I did my music degree I always struggled with voice leading so I'm surprised that I understood this perfectly. Yes, there are rules but what you've given us here is an excellent starting point. Thanks, now subscribed!

  • @mrblablablabla
    @mrblablablabla 2 года назад

    This just blew my mind! I’ve been using these concepts forever without consciously thinking about it. You put everything in a brand new light for me. Thank you, kind sir!

  • @PaintHerWhite
    @PaintHerWhite 2 года назад

    When somebody asks for me to like and subscribe and they actually sing it, I’ve got to do it. Great solid stuff here. One of the best lessons on RUclips.

  • @castevet
    @castevet 2 года назад +4

    Excellent video, sir! You really have the gift of explaining this stuff in understandable way. 🙂

  • @dreamer4life762
    @dreamer4life762 2 года назад +3

    If you want to hear the most beautiful four part harmonies l have ever heard you have to hear the four beautiful sisters in 4rh Impact sing!! Their vocals and harmonies are unreal and the second youngest sister, Mylene, arranged and constructs all of the incredible vocals!!! She has often been referred to as a musical genius!!!!

  • @nanob0zo
    @nanob0zo 2 года назад +17

    Great video. I can never get enough of how to improve my chords to have more movement and feeling.
    Also BTC easter egg made me LOL.

  • @ma-rc
    @ma-rc 2 года назад +1

    I think this is so far the best video I've ever seen about this subject. It's incredibly helpful and well explained, I'm so very thankful for it!

  • @TheMemo659
    @TheMemo659 2 года назад

    Wow! Mind blown. Bass player for 37 years n counting. For the last ten or so have actually dug into theory a bit.
    About two years back I started messing with triads up around the 11th fret. Learned a buncha different chord shapes and got far more familiar with that section of the fret board. While stumbling from shape to shape my ears were catching the accidental voice leading I was doing. Ive been trying to figure out why certain shapes flow into others so well and why certain shapes can sound completely different within a different context this entire time.
    This vid not only solved the puzzle, it gave me the tools to intentionally do what has been tickling my ears for quite some time. Thank you. Subbed.

  • @mhz6687
    @mhz6687 Год назад +5

    Jake idk where you are but i hope youre doing really well. U are the best

  • @lucasoneil8997
    @lucasoneil8997 2 года назад +27

    I've been in quite the songwriting rut recently and this is absolutely blowing my mind. I've always had a hard time coming up with better melodies that aren't just singing a single note with each chord... and never know where else to go when I've got a decent 4 bar melody. Think is insanely helpful

  • @Mykuss001us
    @Mykuss001us 2 года назад +3

    O.K. Jake! Where are you it has been 10 Months and not a peep! Not even a Merry Christmas Message or nothing on this channel. Are you still alive??? If not, you have left a great legacy and I will be forever grateful! Love and God Bless You and your Family!!!!

  • @KC25169
    @KC25169 Год назад +1

    I really, really miss this channel. It was so good. So practical.

  • @tobiasnagel2767
    @tobiasnagel2767 2 года назад

    Man, your videos are hands down the best musical content on RUclips!!!!

  • @chrissaxon5912
    @chrissaxon5912 2 года назад +5

    Jake,
    At 13:25 you say that the E7 in the chord progression (C G Am E7 F G C C) is a secondary dominate. I think you mean modal substitution? The next chord is F, so the secondary dominate of F would be C7 (V of I). If E7 were the secondary dominate than the next chord would be B0. (V of VII).

    • @SignalsMusicStudio
      @SignalsMusicStudio  2 года назад +2

      E is V / vi in the key of C, but in this case it doesn't resolve to the vi (Am) but instead pops out FROM the vi chord. Even though it doesn't function 100% as a secondary dominant here (since it's not going to Am), E7 is still considered a secondary dominant chord (V7 / vi). I also would just call it a III chord but there is no real modal counterpart to that so it's hard for me to call it a borrowed chord. This III chord though (or V/vi whichever you prefer) is seen a lot in this exact instance where it all resolves UPWARDS a halfstep to take us to the IV chord - neighbor tones helping out again! See Creep by Radiohead or Imagine by John Lennon

    • @chrissaxon5912
      @chrissaxon5912 2 года назад

      Thanks that is really helpful.

    • @noelwalterso2
      @noelwalterso2 2 года назад +1

      Could it also be described as a "chromatic mediant" ?

    • @SignalsMusicStudio
      @SignalsMusicStudio  2 года назад +1

      @@noelwalterso2 absolutely! but i always think about classifying things in a way that gives me more options as a composer - when I think of chromatic mediants, i don't have many tricks up my sleeve. When I think of dominant chords, a whole world opens up to me (including diminished since it's in my 7th chord!)

    • @Markrspooner
      @Markrspooner 2 года назад +1

      @@SignalsMusicStudio very interesting, my first though was that is is modal interchange rather than secondary dominant. I think it really depends on the emotion/feeling using that chords brings to the progression. This is the first time I have seen a secondary dominant used this way, where it doesn't resolve or tonicise the following chord, so I do find it very interesting.

  • @MrStevem121
    @MrStevem121 2 года назад +8

    Really well explained dude. You’re a good teacher. Learnt yesterday that 5ths with a flat 7 supposedly have an even stronger call to resolve than if it were just a triad. So it’s cool to see you put the G7 there

  • @MDCSYD
    @MDCSYD 2 года назад +4

    Holy crap…that $BTC chart KILLED me!! 😂🤣🤦🏻‍♂️👍. And on a serious note….you are one such gifted teacher/educator. Truly the best of the bests there are

  • @mpiper4781
    @mpiper4781 2 года назад

    Excellent teacher - purposeful, well thought out, visual. And without ego, just confidence. Full of simple guidance which shows your mastery. Alot of teachers/leaders (on youtube & otherwise) could learn from how you empower & spark what's inside. I dont play guitar. I play keyboards - jus barely. But iv seen quite alot of tutorials - all the big names. You are on a very short list of music youtubers that is engaging, truly communicates concepts & sparks creativity. Thank you.

  • @AstorSkywalker
    @AstorSkywalker 2 года назад +4

    hey Jake were u been? been waiting for your videos

  • @douglasholdenjr.45
    @douglasholdenjr.45 Год назад +6

    We need more videos!!! Why did you stop making them?!!!😔😔

    • @GMJ7320
      @GMJ7320 Год назад +3

      He ran out of music theory concepts to make videos on lol

    • @douglasholdenjr.45
      @douglasholdenjr.45 Год назад

      @@GMJ7320 🤔😬😝😂 Funny, but I doubt it.

  • @Hetriani
    @Hetriani Год назад +3

    Jake, I guess I'm just checking in to see if you are well...miss your uploads, I hope everything is good on your end bro

  • @bencooper7881
    @bencooper7881 Год назад

    This is the best way I've heard voice leading explained. The way you break it down you're actually explaining the process instead of just playing some chords and saying these chord notes are the way you do voice leading good luck lol. Thanks!!

  • @TerenceKearns
    @TerenceKearns 2 года назад

    dude your ability to convey complex topics in an accessible and enjoyable way is phenomenal. So true about problem solving.

  • @arnegotz7579
    @arnegotz7579 2 года назад +5

    Why did you stop making videos? We need more!

  • @GitFiddler
    @GitFiddler 10 месяцев назад +8

    Voice leading is actually just 2 basic rules: 1) connect all same notes between chords; this means with the chords F-A-C and C-E-G, hold the C note with both chords. 2) move other notes the nearest way. Using FAC and CEG again, move from F to E, and A to G, while holding the note C for both chords. Done. Next level is to move the notes according to basic counterpoint theory.

  • @cosmicaudio4589
    @cosmicaudio4589 2 года назад +4

    The rules are just the framework for us to paint our music on and if we slash over the edge a bit so what, it's what gives our music its unique character!

  • @rookbranwen8047
    @rookbranwen8047 Год назад

    As someone who just started learning to produce music, it is an amazing thing to be able to easily find videos like this. Every time I find a video like this it is like getting a new musical toy to play with.

  • @Gflamex
    @Gflamex Год назад

    I like how we can see the excitement and passion he has. I think, at least for myself, it can be very overwhelming to try to learn a lot of rules at once. This keeps it simple enough to easily learn, but also, you see that you can be doing more, and personally, it gets me excited to try it.

  • @chriswhite9218
    @chriswhite9218 2 года назад +5

    Since finding your channel I've learnt so much it's unreal, I'm already a much better guitarist, thank you😁

  • @braxal6983
    @braxal6983 Год назад +5

    Jake, It seems like you no longer do videos. I wonder how you are doing and really miss your lessons.

  • @ronsonesteban8632
    @ronsonesteban8632 Год назад +6

    Why did jake stop uploading? Does anyone know? He has one of the greatest lesson channel in all of the Internet

  • @leanderlumen1868
    @leanderlumen1868 5 месяцев назад

    Wow. Just wow. Thank you for that wonderful and fun video. After composing in the DAW (also Reason user here) I started playing the guitar which totally changed my relationship to making music. This is a great way to combine both. Thanks for sharing your insight!

  • @WunHungLo99
    @WunHungLo99 2 года назад +1

    The arrangement of 4 part harmony and the rules of movement and relative counter movement was taught to me at 15/16 for my O level music exam. It is one of the most valuable things I have learned as a pro musician. .

  • @TomMarvan
    @TomMarvan 2 года назад +2

    Haven’t seen you in a while with a new video, will you be posting again soon?