The Symmetrical Chord

[Svetko aka Foxey Lisica]

Hello everyone from Sydney Australia.

I’ve got a question about the Symmetrical Chord.

In the Crash Course Lesson Vol. 1,
Mr Zellon began a discussion on the Symmetrical Chord;
during the o 7th arpeggio description.

Is the Symmetrical Chord the same as the Coltrane Matrix/Coltrane Changes?

What is the Symmetrical Chord being discussed by Mr Zellon,
and how is it used in Jazz Improvisation.

[Richie]

The symmetrical diminished chord and Coltrane changes are 2 intricate subjects which are beyond the scope of this course since they are mainly post-bop concepts. I will fully explain the use of the octatonic symmetrical scale during improvisation in Volume 2 of this series (coming soon). If I try to explain it here, I feel I would not do it justice. However, if anyone out there wants to give it a shot, I say go for it…

[Svetko aka Foxey Lisica]

Hello Mr Zellon,

thank you for your response.
If I may say so, we eagerly await Vol. 2.

Looking at these concepts, I shall begin to answer my own question.

Many years ago, my old Professor of Music, Prof. Phillip Bracanin
introduced to me the Symmetrical divisions of the octave by common practice Composers like Berlioz, Chopin, Bach etc.

For example you may symmetrically divide by M2/M2/m2’s, also by alternating m3/M3’s, and by P5’s.

Here, you may symmetrically divide an octave by successive M2’s (two half steps), m3’s (three half steps), M3’s (four half steps), or the tritone ( six half steps).

So you can have root movement by M2, m3, M3, Tritone, & P5.

When I heard that John Coltrane was into Slominsky’s Thesaurus of Scales and Melodic Patterns, following a recommendation from Mr Zellon, I had a look at this book; and now the light bulb is working again.
Wow, how cool is Curiosity. I’m dig’n it 🙂

These concepts are able to lead into areas where there is no sensation for an idea of a home key. Radical maneuvers and creativity are going to be required.

Music is such a beautiful language and friend.

Enjoy.

[Svetko aka Foxey Lisica]

Stravinsky’s beautiful Rite of Spring contains the use of octatonic scales.
Check his cool horn section.

The wheel begins to move, beautiful pearls of wisdom.

[Author]

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