Changing keys with the blues scale to follow harmonic changes. Conclusion
: Henderson relies heavily on the melodic minor scale to navigate complex changes, offering specific arpeggio patterns (like the minor-major 9) to add tension and color.
Used over non-resolving dominant chords (like a bVII7 chord). It provides a bright, quirky jazz-rock flavor due to the #11 interval. Chord-Tone Soloing and Enclosures
The curriculum focuses on breaking down complex jazz theory into actionable rock-infused techniques, specifically designed to help players move beyond standard pentatonic patterns into "outside" melodic territory. Core Instructional Modules The program is split into two primary areas of study: Jazz Fusion Improvisation scott henderson jazz rock mastery pdf top
Unlike fusion players who approach jazz purely from a scalar perspective, Henderson treats the blues as his foundation. He infuses standard jazz 2-5-1 progressions with aggressive string bending, wide vibrato, and soulful slides. This keeps his playing expressive, preventing it from sounding like sterile academic exercises. 2. Advanced Pentatonic Substitutions
He treats the guitar like a horn, using wide intervals and vocal-like bends.
To achieve mastery in the style of Scott Henderson, your practice routine must bridge the gap between intuitive blues playing and academic jazz theory. A top-tier study guide or PDF focusing on his style generally breaks down into four major pillars. 1. Advanced Pentatonic Substitutions Changing keys with the blues scale to follow
Henderson bridges the gap between raw blues feeling and advanced jazz harmony. He treats the guitar like a horn, focusing on expressive phrasing and vocal dynamics. He avoids mindless speed, prioritizing strong melodic statements instead. The Importance of Ear Training
Regardless of whether you own the physical book or a digital backup, here are the killer concepts inside that justify the hype.
Henderson's diverse musical background and influences have significantly contributed to his distinctive style. He has cited guitarists like Al Di Meola, Frank Gambale, and Bill Freeth as major influences, as well as jazz legends like Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Bill Evans. This eclectic mix of rock, jazz, and fusion elements has enabled Henderson to create a unique sound that defies traditional genre boundaries. It provides a bright, quirky jazz-rock flavor due
he uses (like the diminished or whole-tone) in greater detail.
The answer lies in musical literacy. The video shows Henderson playing fast, with intense feel, but he rarely slows down to explain every note. The provides:
Henderson is famous for arguing that the distinction between jazz and rock is often artificial. His methodology focuses on how a guitarist can take a standard pentatonic scale (the staple of rock) and infuse it with the chromaticism and rhythmic displacement of jazz.
Henderson demystifies the process of playing over complex, rapidly shifting chord progressions. He teaches players how to find "guide tones" (the 3rd and 7th intervals of a chord) to smoothly transition from one harmony to the next without sounding disjointed. Advanced Pentatonic Substitution
The printable companion booklet is crucial. Study the exercises and ensure you can play the examples in all 12 keys.