Ditty Yop

I thought it would be fun to write a short rhythmic tune; that incorporates some of the right-hand chords I showed you last month. I call it "Giddy Yup".

Download the files and let's take a look at it.

StaffTab: giddyyup.pdf
Audio: giddyyup.mp3

The first two measures set up the LH rhythm, which is a root-5-5 motor. This pattern remains consistent throughout the tune, but modulates through four different chords/positions. Practice the left-hand part, moving through all the changes for the entire song, until it becomes second nature.

There are basically four different chords that the right hand is in charge of - each introduced in measures 3-6: F7, Dm/G, Ab(9), & Bb(9) respectively. The RH chord shown in measure 4 is an inversion of Dm with F in the bass, which would be written Dm/F if it stood alone. However, the LH bass note dictates the name of the complete chord. The Bb(9) in measure 6 is a partial chord - made complete by the addition of the LH bass note.

The frequency of the RH rhythm increases as the song progresses through each phrase. The trick is going to be playing on the off beats. If you have trouble with some of these parts, play the LH exaggeratedly slow while you work the RH part. Slowly increase speed as you gain confidence.

The bridge-like section starts at measure 21. The RH plays pairs of notes that alternate back and forth as quarter-note triplets. Of course that means more off-beat playing. You may want to play along with the audio to get the feel for this phrase. It's very rewarding, once you can get it.

Measure 23 introduces you to an F(9). Again, the LH bass note helps determine the chord name, but the RH chord alone is an inversion with C in the bass.

That's all for now. See ya.

Chris
www.ChrisCrain.com