If you’re an intermediate jazz improviser looking to add sophistication and tension to your solos, mastering the altered scale is a game-changer. This scale is essential for creating that signature jazz “outside” sound while maintaining a smooth resolution to the next chord. In this post, we’ll break down the altered scale in simple terms and show you how to practice and apply it effectively.
What is the Altered Scale?
The altered scale is a seven-note scale often used over dominant 7th chords with altered tensions. It’s derived from the 7th mode of the melodic minor scale, and it includes every possible alteration of the dominant chord. These altered notes create a rich, tense sound perfect for jazz improvisation.
Finding the Altered Scale
The simplest way to find the altered scale for a dominant 7th chord is to:
- Go a half-step up from the root of the chord.
- Play the melodic minor scale from that note.
For example, if you’re playing over G7 altered, you would play the A flat melodic minor scale, starting on G.
The Notes of the Altered Scale
Let’s spell out the notes for G7 altered (G7alt):
- G (root)
- A flat (flat 9)
- B flat (sharp 9)
- B (3rd) or C flat
- D flat (flat 5)
- E flat (flat 13)
- F (flat 7)
The scale includes all the altered tensions—flat 9, sharp 9, flat 5, and flat 13—making it a perfect choice for dominant chords that lead to resolution.
How to Practice the Altered Scale
Mastering the altered scale requires practice. Here’s a step-by-step routine:
Step 1: Learn the Scale
Start by playing the scale slowly in one octave. For G7 altered, this means playing the A flat melodic minor scale starting on G. Focus on the unique sound of the altered tensions.
Step 2: Improvise with Simple Phrases
Use the altered scale to create short, simple phrases. Experiment with resolving altered tensions (like A flat or E flat) to chord tones in the next chord.
Step 3: Practice Patterns
To build fluency, practice patterns within the scale. A great example is:
- G, A flat, B flat, B (or C flat), D flat, E flat, F, G.
Patterns help you internalize the scale and make it easier to navigate during improvisation.
Applying the Altered Scale to Progressions
The altered scale shines in chord progressions, especially 2-5-1 progressions. Here’s an example in the key of C major:
- D minor 7 (2)
- G7 altered (5) – Use the altered scale to create tension.
- C major 7 (1) – Resolve to chord tones like E or G.
The altered tensions on the G7 altered chord naturally resolve to the consonant tones of the C major 7 chord, creating a satisfying sense of release.
Why Use the Altered Scale?
The altered scale brings depth and complexity to your solos by introducing tension and release. It’s particularly effective in jazz, where the balance of “outside” and “inside” playing is key to a compelling improvisation.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the altered scale is a milestone in any jazz improviser’s journey. It opens up new possibilities for creating tension, enriching your harmonic palette, and delivering more expressive solos.
Start by practicing the scale in all 12 keys and using it in 2-5-1 progressions. Over time, it will become a natural part of your improvisational toolkit.
Ready to take your improvisation to the next level? Dive into the altered scale, and let the music flow! 🎷
Let us know in the comments how you’re incorporating the altered scale into your solos. Happy practicing!