Holdsworth for Mortals, Part 2
IN OUR LAST issue, we presented the first part of our two-part lesson in understanding and using the unique and highly idiosyncratic scale-based chord voicing and single-note soloing techniques of the late Allan Holdsworth. In consideration of the complexity of his chord progressions and numerous scale-playing techniques, our goal throughout this lesson has been to provide an accessible and inspiring introduction to Holdsworth’s style that doesn’t require his rare genius to understand or employ.
Last month, we presented examples in the family of relative modes based on the parent C major scale (C, D, E, F, G, A, B), with an orientation primarily around F shows D melodic minor mapped on the fretboard in a grid of overlapping three-notes-per-string patterns. It is possible to repeat all of last month’s examples using this D melodic minor form for all fretboard positions, so by all means give it a try! Finally, our lesson will conclude with a “grand finale” study piece that incorporates all of these concepts in a 31-bar tribute solo.
