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1) When doing the etudes/examples many times I find that the approach notes (especially chromatic) seem to fall on the down beats. I always assumed, probably incorrectly, that these embellishing tones should be placed on the off beats? Is there any guidance to be offered for this?
2) It seems in the first couple of modules for major and dominant chords the 4th (11th) is placed on strong beats. I again thought that these were notes to better be avoided on down beats due to there dissonance.
any clarification is appreciated, thanks
I believe that is a misunderstanding of the rhythmic value that corresponds to the downbeat in question, and the tempo it is being played at. If it is an 8th note or smaller played at a fast, medium or even slow-medium tempo, no problem for an approach note to fall on a downbeat, especially if it resolves immediately. Remember, jazz is all about tension and release! On a slow ballad however, it isn’t such a good idea…
If you analyze solos by many of the great bebop players, you’ll find that this is the case. By the way, at the end of Module 8 I will start a series called “Dissecting the Masters”, through which I will demonstrate the above principle, among many other things!
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