In this post I am going to share the concept of “extension”, approach to soloing I learned from jazz trombonist and composer Hal Crook. I believe that this method is a powerful technique that anybody can easily use in the effort learning how to solo in a more organized and consequential way.

If you read my previous post, you are already familiar with the way I practice “imitation”. Briefly, imitation is the repetition of the same melodic curve and rhythmic idea throughout a given number of bars. In this context, extension is meant to generate more interest in the lines you are playing Incorporating a new idea to your previous line.

For example, if your line is A, B, C, D, the extended idea could be A, B, C, D, E, F, “E, F” being the extended segment. This new segment can even be added before the old line i.e., E, F, A, B, C, D.

So, how can you practice extension?

Here’s a very simple method:

1. Choose an accompaniment (metronome, sequencer etc…)

2. Choose an easy harmonic setting (one single chord, a II V I progression, your favorite tune)

3. Play a simple line (4-5 notes) and repeat its melodic curve with the same rhythm 2-3 times

4. Rest for a couple of bars

5. Repeat the same idea AND add a new (extended) line to it.

6. Rest

7. Repeat the whole process practicing for about 1 hour

8. Practice also adding the extended line BEFORE the old line.

Relax, get a cup of coffee, then go back to your guitar and play the same progression just for the fun of it.