Beginning Bass 15: A Jazz Standard - Autumn Leaves
By Roy Vogt
Bass Instructor, Belmont University 		Print This Lesson
Roy Vogt. Now that we've done a very old progression based on the Cycle of 4ths in a Diatonic Progression, let's use the Cycle in a more common format. We're going to use the progression of the Johnny Mercer tune "Autumn Leaves" which is a Jazz Standard and common at nearly any jam session for Jazz Musicians.

There are two Cycle progressions based on G major and the relative key of E minor. The G major progression is ii-V7-Imaj7-IVmaj7 (Am7-D7-Gmaj7-Cmaj7) and the E minor progression is iim7b5-V7-im (F#m7b5-B7-Em). Both of these progression move through some part of the Cycle of 4ths.

For this first exercise we're just going to play the simple arpeggios of R-3-5-7. In the event there are only 2 beats available we'll just use R-3. This will give you an idea of how this progression works. For more information, check out the Intermediate Bass studies on ii-V-I progressions and "Turn Down".

Peace and Low Notes,
Roy C. Vogt
Nashville Bassist
Bass Instructor, Belmont University, Nashville, TN

Print This Lesson | Return to Lesson Index

Roy's Bio | An Interview with Roy | Visit Belmont U. | Visit Roy's Website