I will show you a simple “construction-rule” for strong melodies! For me, a strong melody follows a certain structure. While this is not always necessary, obviously, it helps to craft a good melody.
So, let’s postulate that a melody consists of one of the following elements:
- a series of consecutive notes from a scale
- Arpeggios
- Sequences
- Jumps – but not too often
If you improvise following these simple construction-rule, then your playing will presumably be much more melodic than before.
To practice this, I suggest to first play the elements 1 to 3 isolated for a minute or so. Depending on your skill-level and ambition to improve your melodic abilities.
How could your practice look like? Start a jam track and play short five-notes phrases, just consisting of a series of consecutive notes from a scale. Always five notes in a row. If you like, you can change direction once in such a phrase.
Then continue playing mostly arpeggios. On different positions on the fretboard. How many choices you have depends from your knowledge of arpeggios.
And finally play sequences using different scale positions you are familiar with. It’s good if you can play 3-5 different sequences without thinking too much, so that you can use them with confidence during your improvisation.
Then you start combining these elements. Mix scale-based phrases with arpeggios. Then scale-based phrases with sequences. You may add a jump here and there, but not too often, because this corrupts the melodic flow.
And finally combine it all together. Don’t rush! Play slowly and take it easy! You will increase your speed when your ears, brain and hands can follow more easily. Speed comes from playing slow.
