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In this installment: The key of
Ab
This is the ninth
installment of a series of articles designed to help those at the
beginner/intermediate level learn mandola chords, as they would apply to
each given key. Here we are covering the key of A flat in this article. So let’s
get started with the basic chords in the key of A flat.
The Basic chords in the key of
Ab
Chart 1
Now let me explain the chord charts in case you don’t understand
them. They represent the mandola's neck. From right to left are the
strings and the
horizontal
lines represent the frets. Got it? Good. Each finger is represented by a
number from 1-4, with 1 being the index finger, 2 being the middle
finger, 3 being the ring finger and 4 being the pinky. The "0" means
that the string isn’t fretted, just plucked. Whenever you see a line
connecting the dots, it means that all of the dots are pressed down by
the same finger. Which is called "barring" the chord. Simplified: one
finger lays across the strings. Above, I’ve shown the basic chords for
the key of A flat. Below are some additional chords that I refer to as
substitute chords.
Some substitute chords for the key of
Ab
Chart 2
In chart 2, I have listed what are called substitute chords. Let’s say
you played the first chords listed in chart 1, in the order that they
were listed. For the A flat major chord, you can substitute a A flat major 7th
chord. The B flat minor chord can be replaced by the B flat minor 7th
chord. The same is true for each of the remaining. Play them. Has a
jazzy ring to it, doesn’t it? Some people refer to substitute chords
as orchestral chords but it doesn’t matter. A rose by any other name
still has a thorn. I’ve included additional substitute chords so that
you can improve your chordal vocabulary. You’ll be the life of the
party and the envy of all your peers. You will be on your way to
achieving greatness. The sky is the limit. Let’s move on to some more
substitute chords.
Chart 3
So
now we’ll close by saying that we hope you will find this article useful
in the process of learning mandola chords. If there is something you think we should add,
just send a letter or E-mail and we’ll be happy to give your suggestions
some consideration. We covered 20
chords in this lesson and in each future installment we’ll cover 20 more. So keep on
playing and we’ll see you next time.
Bob Craypoe
Next installment: The key of B
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To Download The Printable PDF File With The Charts For This Key
