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Hexatonic and Trichord Resource Guide
The Comprehensive Guide to Modern Melodic and Harmonic Mastery
Welcome to the Hexatonic and Trichord Resource Guide, your definitive portal for mastering the “New Path” to modern improvisation. Whether you are diving deep into pitch class set theory or looking for specialized trichord ear training, this page organizes over 30 years of pedagogy into a clear, actionable roadmap.
For a deep dive into the underlying theory, please refer to our pillar resources:
Hexatonic and Pitch Class Set Improvisation | Hexatonics Scales the Complete Guide
Beginning Methods
Modern sound doesn’t have to be complicated. These courses are designed for musicians who want to start using exotic colors and contemporary textures immediately, with zero prior knowledge of Pitch Class Set theory required.
Applying Chord Voicings to Traditional Harmony
“Applying Pitch Class Set Chord Voicings to Traditional Harmony” provides a student interested in modernizing their chord playing with four pitch class sets that effective create a new and intriguing sound for playing traditional harmony. Common jazz standards are used to give you a fresh new sound. These voicings of course could be applied to any idiom.
Course Highlights:
- Examples of using these pitch class set is shown through common chord progressions.
- A Direct Application Course spending most of the time directly apply these pitch class set chords.
- Common re-harmonization principles have been avoided so the student will find this to be a quick method in applying pitch class sets to traditional harmony
- With marginal practice should find with that their ability to complete this book will only take a few months.
Modal Pitch Class Set Voicings
Modal Application of Pitch Class Sets features a specialized collection of three-note chord voicings using pitch class sets 013, 015, 016, 025, 026, and 027 for guitar or piano. This course teaches you how to combine these sets to create sophisticated, non-tertian sounds reminiscent of Allan Holdsworth and Steely Dan. Highly versatile and modern, these voicings excel in any context—from contemporary country and jazz to modern classical compositions.
Course Highlights:
- Master Iconic Modern Sounds: Learn the sophisticated, non-tertian chord voicings used by legendary artists like Allan Holdsworth and Steely Dan.
- Ultimate Stylistic Versatility: Discover how these “hip” pitch class sets apply to almost any genre, from Jazz and Fusion to Country, Rock, and Contemporary Classical.
- Efficient Learning System: Focus on 12 essential modal systems and “closed voicings” that are easy to play but provide professional-level harmonic color.
- Comprehensive Practice Tools: Get 30 minutes of instructional video and 60 jam tracks to immediately apply these voicings in a real-world musical context.
Modal-Chromatic-Pitch-Class-Set-Chord-Voicings
Modal Chromatic Pitch Class Sets explores sophisticated three-note voicings (013 through 027) enhanced with chromatic passing chords. Drawing from 30 years of professional experience, this course teaches you to create the “hip,” non-tertian sounds made famous by Allan Holdsworth and Steely Dan. Highly versatile and easy to apply, these textures transition seamlessly across jazz, rock, country, and contemporary classical music.
Course Highlights:
- 18 Powerful Modal Frameworks: Master advanced chromatic combinations (like 027-016 and 026-026) to add modern, sophisticated “color” to any song or progression.
- Ultimate Stylistic Versatility: Discover how these “hip” pitch class sets apply to almost any genre, from Jazz and Fusion to Country, Rock, and Contemporary Classical.
- 60 Pro Jam Tracks & Audio Examples: Practice with bass and drum tracks in all 12 keys, featuring MP3 examples for every exercise to ensure you’re hearing the progressions correctly.
- Optimized for Efficiency: Focus on “closed voicings” that are easy to play but highly versatile, with specialized chord diagrams for guitarists and grand staff notation for pianists.
- Harmonic & Melodic Flexibility: Learn how these “hip” trichord pairs work double duty—they are just as effective for building unique melodic lines as they are for rich chordal textures.
Applying 013 Chord Voicings
Applying 013 Chord Voicings bridges the gap between abstract pitch class sets and practical performance. Through 12 comprehensive études (one in every key), this course demonstrates how to apply 013 voicings to the standard II7–V7–I-7–VI7 progression. Perfect for guitarists, pianists, and composers, these lessons focus on sophisticated voice leading and re-harmonization techniques to create smooth, modern movement within traditional harmonic frameworks.
Course Highlights:
- Real-World Application: Master 12 detailed études (one in every key) that apply 013 voicings to the essential II-V-I-VI progression, bridging the gap between theory and performance.
- Expert Voice Leading & Re-harmonization: Overcome the “013 challenge” with clear examples of smooth voice leading and modern tension combinations that sound professional, not just dissonant.
- Instrument-Specific Tools: Includes specialized charts with guitar chord diagrams for easy fretting and grand staff notation for pianists, ensuring playability regardless of your primary instrument.
- Complete Practice Suite: Train with versatile audio assets, including MIDI files for tempo adjustment and MP3s featuring bass and cymbal accompaniment for a full ensemble feel.
Theory & Reference
The architecture of the method. These resources provide the mathematical and structural maps for all 924 hexatonic scales and their internal trichord relationships, serving as the definitive reference for the modern improviser.
Sonic Resource Guide
“The Sonic Resource Guide is the definitive roadmap for modern improvisation, distilling all possible pitch combinations into 220 manageable scales. This essential reference empowers musicians to derive every possible chord from any scale and master “outside” playing through advanced concepts like symmetric differences and subset groupings. Whether you are seeking new structural approaches or looking to enrich your harmonic vocabulary, this guide provides the deep technical insights needed to transform your improvisational voice.
Course Highlights:
- Comprehensive Scale Encyclopedia: Master all 220 possible pitch class combinations, each detailed with note names, prime forms, scale degrees, and related jazz chords for every key.
- Advanced Improvisational Tools: Unlock “hidden” relationships within scales, including 3 and 4-note subsets and “Symmetric Difference” sets for sophisticated outside playing.
- Bridges Theory and Performance: Translates complex mathematical set theory into user-friendly musical concepts, perfect for Jazz, Progressive Rock, and Contemporary Classical musicians.
- Dynamic Compositional Resource: Easily create and analyze new scales on the fly using the included simplified set list index, allowing for a truly unique and varied harmonic palette.
Ultimate 3 Note Chord Lexicon Volume One “012”
The Ultimate 3 Note Chord Lexicon series moves beyond traditional chords built in 3rds to explore all 11 alternative ways to construct 3-note structures. These compact voicings are incredibly versatile, offering more substitution possibilities than larger chords across any musical style. Each volume provides specialized piano and guitar voicings, practical application charts, and études to help you master these modern sounds. (Note: Guitarists are encouraged to pair this with our Guitar Technique and Physiology course for optimal execution.)
Course Highlights:
- Genre-Defying Études: Master “012” pitch class sets through diverse musical styles, including Funk, Swing, and Shuffle, to see how these modern sounds work in any groove.
- Multi-Tempo Training: Every exercise includes three progressively faster MP3s and MIDI files, allowing you to develop fluency from a slow crawl to high-speed musicality.
- Comprehensive Ear Training: Use the included rhythm section tracks to ingrain new sounds into your “inner ear” through sight-singing, transcription, and focused listening.
- Flexible Study Tools: Includes 12-key chord cycles for piano and guitar, bass charts for most exercises, and count-offs that establish a clear key center for every practice session.
Ultimate 3 Note Chord Lexicon Volume Two “013″
Volume Two: The 013 Chord Lexicon is an essential resource focusing on what is arguably the most versatile structure in modern music. Historically significant and used extensively by John Coltrane, the 013 pitch class set can replace any chord type, functioning as both a consonant and dissonant texture depending on its voicing. Because it is found within Major, Melodic Minor, Harmonic Minor, and Diminished scales, the 013 is an easy-to-play yet powerful substitution tool for every improviser.
Course Highlights:
- 18 Powerful Modal Frameworks: Master advanced chromatic combinations (like 027-016 and 026-026) to add modern, sophisticated “color” to any song or progression.
- The Ultimate Chord Substitute: Learn how the “013” can replace nearly any chord type, serving as a powerful tool to modernize “tired” progressions like the I-vi-ii-V turnaround.
- Seamless Scale Integration: Discover how to use 013s as natural substitutions for Major, Melodic Minor, and Symmetrical Diminished scales to create sophisticated, Coltrane-inspired textures.
- Diverse Practice Études: Master seven sets of musical études covering everything from Funk to Symmetrical Diminished dominant harmony, all with included bass charts and transposition options.
- Complete Audio Mastery: Develop fluency with three-speed MP3s and MIDI files for every exercise, allowing you to focus on ear training, transcription, or high-speed performance at your own pace.
Ultimate 3 Note Chord Lexicon Volume Three “014″
Volume Three: The 014 Chord Lexicon explores one of the most evocative and “edgy” structures in music. Famous for its heavy use in Thelonious Monk’s dissonant textures and Anton Webern’s compositions, the 014 is a powerhouse for modern Jazz and Heavy Metal. While primarily used as a striking dominant 7th substitute, it also functions perfectly as a Diminished 7 or Minor-Major 7 chord, making it an essential tool for creating sophisticated hexatonic scales and Symmetrical Diminished harmonies.
Course Highlights:
- Modernize Your Harmony: Use the “014” structure to replace tired dominant chord voicings with a sharp, evocative sound reminiscent of Thelonious Monk and Anton Webern.
- Versatile Modal Tools: Master five sets of études that demonstrate how 014s function as Diminished 7th or Minor-Major 7th substitutes, perfect for Jazz, Blues, and Heavy Metal.
- Integrated Skill Building: Beyond standard chord diagrams, these études are designed for ear training, sight-reading, and transcription, helping you internalize these dissonant sounds in any key.
- Pro Practice Assets: Includes rhythm section MP3s at three different tempos and MIDI files for every exercise, plus specialized bass charts and transposed piano p
COMING SOON: 924 Hexatonic Scales in All 12 Keys
Finding the specific hexatonic scale you need shouldn’t be a hurdle to your practice. We’ve organized all 924 scales into a streamlined, searchable reference designed for the modern improviser. By focusing on the 50 Prime Forms, you’ll learn to see the underlying architecture behind every scale.
Course Highlights:
- Architectural Organization: Simplifies the massive library of 924 hexatonic scales by grouping them into 50 Prime Forms, helping you understand the underlying structure and hidden relationships between scales.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Includes 720 permutations per scale with all 12 keys fully represented to ensure total fretboard or keyboard mastery.
- Detailed Theoretical Analysis: Provides a deep dive into each scale with Scale Degrees, Forte numbers, and harmonic possibilities for advanced melodic organization.
- Practical Subset Mapping: Organizes scales as subsets of common structures—such as Major, Melodic Minor, Harmonic Minor/Major, Diminished, and Whole Tone—for easier integration into your vocabulary.
COMING SOON: 36 Atomic Scale Permutations
“Atomic Scales” is the definitive term for Charlie Banacos’ specialized patterns for hexatonic mastery. This course is crucial for internalizing scales by dividing them into two distinct trichords (triad pairs), providing a clear, systematic path to fluid execution.
Course Highlights:
- The “Atomic Scales” Method: Master Charlie Banacos’ specialized hexatonic patterns by breaking scales into two distinct trichords (triad pairs) for a systematic approach to fluid execution.
- Comprehensive Drill Library: Includes 36 permutations per scale, meticulously transposed across every key to ensure total technical internalization.
- In-Depth Theoretical Analysis: Gain a deeper understanding of your melodic tools with detailed breakdowns of Scale Degrees, Forte numbers, and Harmonic possibilities.
- Universal Accessibility: Designed for all instrumentalists with complete Treble and Bass clef compatibility for every exercise.
COMING SOON: 9240 Trichord Permutations
Explore the full spectrum of 36 trichord pair permutations derived from all 924 possible hexatonic combinations. Scales are categorized into seven harmonic families (Major, Melodic Minor, Harmonic Minor, etc.) for targeted practice. Available in Treble and Bass clef with full MIDI support.
Course Highlights:
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- Total Trichord Spectrum: Explore a massive library of 9,240 trichord pairs derived from all 924 possible hexatonic combinations, offering unparalleled melodic variety.
- Harmonic Categorization: All scales are organized into seven primary harmonic families (including Major, Melodic Minor, and Harmonic Minor) for highly targeted and efficient practice.
- Systematic Patterns: Features 36 distinct permutations per hexatonic scale, providing a structured path to internalizing complex interval relationships.
- Modern Digital Integration: Includes full Treble and Bass clef compatibility for all instruments, plus complete MIDI support for seamless integration into your digital workflow.
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COMING SOON: 10 Trichord Pairs for 924 Hexatonic Scales
A streamlined, essential listing of the 10 specific trichord pairs that comprise each of the 924 hexatonic scales. This is a vital resource for players looking to break down complex scales into manageable, “grippable” three-note cells across all keys.
Course Highlights:
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- Modular Scale Breakdown: Master the essential 10 trichord pairs for each of the 924 hexatonic scales, turning complex structures into manageable, three-note “cells.”
- Precise Pitch Mapping: Includes detailed Pitch Class Designations and Scale Degrees for every combination to ensure exact melodic accuracy.
- Advanced Structural Insights: Access a comprehensive technical profile for each scale, including Prime Forms and Forte numbers for deeper harmonic analysis.
- Full Key & Digital Support: Fully transposed across all 12 keys and includes MIDI files, making it easy to practice or integrate into your digital workstation.
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COMING SOON: 1924 Hexatonic Scales Grouped by Prime Form
Master the internal architecture of melody. By grouping all 924 scales into their 50 parent Prime Forms, this course reveals the hidden relationships between seemingly unrelated scales, allowing you to organize your harmonic vocabulary more efficiently.
Course Highlights:
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- Architectural Mastery: Master the internal structure of melody by grouping all 924 scales into their 50 parent Prime Forms, revealing the hidden relationships between seemingly unrelated sounds.
- Efficient Vocabulary Organization: Grouping scales by shared Prime Forms allows you to categorize and internalize your harmonic vocabulary more systematically.
- Comprehensive Technical Profile: Provides deep analytical insights for every scale, including Scale Degrees, Forte numbers, and Prime Form designations.
- Universal Practice Tools: Every scale is represented in all 12 keys and includes MIDI files for seamless practice and digital integration.
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COMING SOON: Hexatonic Chords: Root, 1st, and 2nd Inversions
A complete guide to the vertical application of hexatonic scales. Learn to voice and play every possible three-note chord derived from the hexatonic system across all 12 keys and inversions.
Course Highlights:
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- Vertical Harmonic Mastery: A comprehensive guide to the vertical application of hexatonic scales, teaching you to voice and play every three-note chord possible within the system.
- Complete Inversion Library: Master 9,240 patterns covering Root, 1st, and 2nd inversions for every trichord pair, ensuring total fretboard or keyboard fluency.
- Structured Chord Groupings: Organizes the 924 hexatonic scales into 10 specific trichord pair groupings per scale, transposed across all 12 keys.
- Precision Practice Tools: Includes MIDI files for every key to ensure accurate pitch representation and a streamlined practice experience.
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COMING SOON: Hexatonic Modal Sequencing of Trichords
The first level of Charlie Banacos’ “Double Mambos” concept. This course presents six essential sequencing patterns across all keys and harmonic categories. It is the perfect entry point for musicians seeking to move past simple scale runs into sophisticated modal shapes.
Course Highlights:
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- Intro to “Double Mambos”: Master the first level of Charlie Banacos’ legendary concept, using six essential sequencing patterns to move beyond simple scale runs into sophisticated modal shapes.
- Comprehensive Modal Permutations: Includes 6 specific modal sequencing patterns per scale, fully transposed across all 12 keys for total technical command.
- Harmonic Framework: Scales are strategically organized by their relationship to common seven-note scales, making it easier to apply these shapes to familiar chord progressions.
- Universal Compatibility: Written with complete Treble and Bass clef support, ensuring accessibility for all instrumentalists looking to expand their melodic vocabulary.
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COMING SOON: Hexatonic Modal Sequencing with 2-Note Approach Patterns
An advanced fusion of two classic Banacos techniques. By adding approach notes to the Level 1 Atomic Scales, this course builds the “Post-Bebop” vocabulary used by icons like John Coltrane and Eric Dolphy. Gain complete control over chromaticism and scale-degree targeting.
Course Highlights:
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- Advanced Technique Fusion: Combines two legendary Banacos methods by adding chromatic approach notes to Level 1 Atomic Scales, creating a sophisticated “Post-Bebop” vocabulary.
- Iconic Melodic Vocabulary: Master the chromaticism and scale-degree targeting techniques used by jazz icons like John Coltrane and Eric Dolphy.
- Extensive Pattern Library: Features 12 trichord patterns utilized as approach note figures, with 6 distinct permutations for every scale to build fluid control.
- Universal Instrumental Support: Provides complete Treble and Bass clef compatibility, making these advanced concepts accessible to all musicians.
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COMING SOON: 924 Hexatonic Triples
This course divides each scale into three distinct 2-note patterns. This unique approach opens up a new melodic universe, offering intervals and contours that standard scale-wise playing cannot achieve. Includes PDF and MIDI for all 12 keys
Course Highlights:
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- New Melodic Horizons: Discover a unique “Triples” approach that divides each hexatonic scale into three distinct two-note patterns, unlocking intervals and contours beyond standard scale-wise playing.
- Extensive Permutation Library: Master 60 permutations per scale, organized into structured two-note groups to help you navigate a “new melodic universe.”
- In-Depth Theoretical Breakdown: Includes detailed analysis of Scale Degrees, Forte numbers, and harmonic possibilities for every scale combination.
- Full Digital & Notation Support: Features complete Treble and Bass clef compatibility, high-quality PDFs, and MIDI files for all 12 keys.
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Improvisational Studies
Transform theory into melody. This section features our extensive series of études and application guides, teaching you how to use specific pitch class sets to navigate modern jazz, modal, and chromatic environments.
Time Transformation
Time Transformation is designed for students ready to move beyond conventional melodic and rhythmic patterns. This course explores a new frontier of improvisation based on contemporary pitch class sets, asymmetrical phrasing, and time-level superimposition. By utilizing 027 trichords and 12-tone aggregates, students will develop the technical and conceptual tools required for modern performance.
Course Highlights:
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- Contemporary Melodic Theory: Explore hexatonic scales and trichord-based melodic construction.
- Advanced Rhythmic Concepts: Learn time-level superimposition and improvising across different rhythmic levels.
- Complex Phrasing: Break away from standard patterns with targeted etudes in 3/4, 4/4, 5/4, 6/4, and 7/4 time signatures.
- Sight Reading: Develop proficiency with etudes covering all key centers.
- Interactive Audio Study: Practice with downloadable MP3s featuring modal vamps and superimposed metronome clicks (3 to 7 clicks per measure).
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Set Theory for Improvisation Ensemble Method: Hexatonic 027 027
The Set Theory Ensemble Book series provides a roadmap for musicians looking to break free from traditional patterns. By focusing on non-tertial melodic lines that weave in and out of tonal centers, this course teaches you the backbone of modern improvisation. Through 12 targeted etudes using 027 027 pitch class sets, you will discover fresh melodic possibilities for Major 7, Minor 7, and Dominant 7th sus4 chords.
Course Highlights:
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- Modern Melodic Construction: Develop hexatonic melodies using contemporary music theory constructs.
- 12 Key Mastery: Includes 12 etudes (one in every key) that progress from highly diatonic to advanced non-diatonic structures.
- Versatile Application: Learn to apply these lines over various chord types to control and explore different levels of dissonance.
- Comprehensive Concept Study: Each etude explores unique combinations of note groupings, rhythmic density, and melodic range.
- Foundational Learning: Perfect for students seeking a focused deep-dive into the concepts expanded upon in Time Transformation.
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Set Theory for Improvisation Ensemble Method: Hexatonic 027 016
Ready to develop a groundbreaking approach to your solos? The Set Theory Ensemble Book series teaches you to build modern, hexatonic melodies using non-tertial lines that move fluidly in and out of the key center. By focusing on 027 016 pitch class sets, this volume provides the essential tools for creating sophisticated melodic lines over complex chord structures.
Course Highlights:
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- Targeted Chord Mastery: Discover highly effective melodies specifically designed for Dominant 7th, Minor 7b5, and Minor 6th chords.
- 027 016 Pitch Class Exploration: Master 12 etudes that utilize this specific set theory construct to expand your harmonic vocabulary.
- Progressive Difficulty: Studies range from diatonic foundations to high-level non-diatonic examples, allowing you to control the level of dissonance.
- Dynamic Musicality: Every etude explores unique combinations of rhythmic density, metric levels, and melodic range across all 12 keys.
- Modern Melodic Backbone: Shift away from traditional scales toward the “modern sound” used by contemporary improvisers.
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Tertial Intervallics Volume One
Tertial Intervallics Volume One teaches you to harness the power of repetitive intervals to create cohesive, modern melodic lines. By utilizing consistent four-note structures (7th chords) over varying harmonic backgrounds, your ear begins to perceive the “pattern” as the primary logic, allowing for sophisticated movement through any key center.
Course Highlights:
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- Comprehensive Chord Coverage: Master intervallic patterns for 13 essential structures, including Δ7, -7, 7sus4, -7b5, °7, Δ7#5, Δ7#11, and more.
- Pattern-Based Logic: Learn how to use interval repetition to make complex or “outside” melodic lines sound musically sensible to the listener.
- Multifaceted Application: A versatile resource perfect for improving sight reading, understanding chordal relationships, and developing a contemporary intervallic vocabulary.
- Ear Training Integration: Optimized for use with drones and vamps to help you internalize the relationship between intervallic lines and tonal centers.
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Included Materials:
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- 200-Page PDF: Extensive written exercises and conceptual guides.
- Audio & MIDI Suite: 18 MP3s and 18 MIDI files to hear patterns at various tempos and harmonic settings.
- Rhythm Tools: Includes “Long Line Rhythm” PDF and Video to help master phrasing.
- MetroDrone: Specialized MP3 to facilitate the recommended “drone-based” practice method.
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013 Hexatonic Études: Pitch Class Set Exercises for Dominant 7th Key Center
Unlock a modern, sophisticated sound with 013 Hexatonic Études. This course focuses on the “pivot” technique—alternating between two three-note groups (013 pitch class sets) to create fresh, non-traditional melodies. Designed specifically for Dominant 7th chords, these exercises help you break out of common patterns and master one of music’s most essential harmonic structures.
Course Highlights:
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- 336 Comprehensive Études: Explore 28 unique hexatonic scales across all 12 keys, providing a massive library of modern sounds.
- Advanced Melodic “Pivoting”: Learn to alternate between two 013 pitch class sets (half-step and minor third intervals) for a cutting-edge improvisational feel.
- Multi-Speed Learning: Each étude is recorded at three different tempos, making the material accessible for everyone from beginners to advanced professionals.
- Ear Training & Key Recognition: Use these exercises to improve your ability to identify hexatonic intervals and strengthen your dominant key center recognition.
- Sight Reading Mastery: All études are written at a 16th-note metric level, serving as an excellent daily tool for improving rhythmic reading speed.
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Included Materials:
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- Digital PDF: 336 pages of exercises (one page per étude).
- High-Quality MP3s: Audio examples for every étude at three different speeds.
- MIDI Files: Total flexibility to practice at any tempo using your favorite software.
- Pitch Class Set Guide: A clear explanation of how to think in and apply pitch class sets to your playing.
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Symmetrical Trichord Pairs
Symmetrical Trichord Pairs is an 847-page exhaustive reference guide exploring the formation of two three-note groups with identical structures. By focusing on chord tones and available tensions (avoiding “avoid notes”), this book provides a roadmap for “safe” yet highly sophisticated modern improvisation. From the 027 structures favored by modern jazz and metal players to the dissonant 013 sets used in avant-garde rock, this book helps you find your personal sonic identity within 574 possible combinations.
Course Highlights:
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- 847-Page PDF Reference: An immense library exploring 11 different symmetrical structures across all 12 keys.
- Iconic Sound Analysis: Learn the structures used by legends: 014 and 016 (Thelonious Monk), 013 (John Coltrane), and 037 (McCoy Tyner).
- Practical Sequencing: Every pair is sequenced up one octave to help you visualize and execute fluid melodic lines immediately.
- Targeted Chord Application: Focuses strictly on “tension-free” improvisation, ensuring every note you play fits perfectly over your chosen chord type.
- Strategic Learning Path: Includes guidance on choosing structures that work across multiple chord types to maximize your practice time.
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How to Mastery Symmetrical Pairs:
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- Versatility Training: Identify pairs that function over Major, Minor, and Dominant chords for seamless soloing.
- Genre Adaptation: Discover which pitch class sets best fit your style, from Blues-based Dominant structures to Heavy Metal quartal (027) sounds.
- Interval Consistency: Match specific trichords to the internal interval logic of the music you are performing.
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Trichord Sweep Pairs Guitar Instrumentalist Sweep Arpeggios
Trichord Sweep Pairs is the ultimate resource for guitarists and instrumentalists looking to master modern sweep picking. By stacking two identical 3-note structures (trichords), this course moves past basic triads into 2,440 pages of unique, cutting-edge sweep patterns. Whether you play Jazz, Metal, or Fusion, these patterns provide a logical, mathematical approach to mastering the entire fretboard.
Course Highlights:
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- 2,440 Pages of Patterns: An exhaustive exploration of every possible sweep combination based on 12 essential pitch class sets.
- Guitar-Specific Diagrams: Includes optimized fretboard diagrams and suggested fingerings to help guitarists implement these sweeps immediately.
- Pitch Class Set Logic: Organized by “Prime Form” (012 through 048), allowing you to understand the internal interval relationships of every sweep.
- Video Masterclasses: Includes 80 minutes of video, featuring live performances and demonstrations of 012, 013, 014, 015, and 016 sets.
- Multi-Genre Application: Master the “027” and “037” sounds common in Metal and Jazz, or explore the “013” sounds used in avant-garde compositions.
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What’s Included:
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- Technical PDFs: Divided into “Diagrams” (choice patterns) and “Suggested Fingerings” (all possible structures) for focused study.
- 12 Études: Musical studies designed to help you read and apply these sweeps in real-world situations.
- Audio Suite: 6 MP3s of professional recordings demonstrating these concepts in action.
- Theory Guide: Simple, slow-paced video explanations of Pitch Class Set Theory—no prior theory knowledge required.
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Tertial Octatonics
Are you ready to move past tired arpeggio patterns? Tertial Octatonics provides a modern alternative by exploring the full potential of eight-note scales. By using two tetrads (4-note chords) as a vehicle, this course teaches you how to create cutting-edge sounds over Dominant 7th and Dominant 7sus4 key centers, expanding your harmonic palette far beyond the standard diminished scales.
Course Highlights:
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- Tetrad Combination Mastery: Learn every possible way to combine two 7th chords to form unique octatonic scales.
- 29 Octatonic Scales: Explore a vast library of scales that serve as professional alternatives for modern improvisation and composition.
- Enhanced Chord Knowledge: Use “two tetrad” combinations to master your 7th chords while simultaneously building complex melodic lines.
- Practical Application: Get specific hints and exercises on applying these structures to real-world chord progressions for a “modern” sound.
- Comprehensive Reference: Detailed coverage of combinations for 11 common 7th chords, including Major 7th, Minor 7b5, Diminished 7th, and Major 7#11.
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What You’ll Receive:
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- Extensive Exercise Library: Over 250 pages of possibilities and targeted exercises across all major chord types.
- Aural Training: Specialized information on how to hear and internalize these advanced eight-note structures.
- Practice Strategies: Clear, step-by-step guidance on how to practice and implement these scales into your playing.
- Theoretical Foundation: Background information on the origin and construction of each octatonic scale.
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COMING SOON: 924 Hexatonics with 24 Aggregate Patterns
Using the concept of “Symmetrical Difference,” this course presents all hexatonic scales as part of 12-tone aggregate lines. The result is a collection of melodic phrases of immense complexity and modern beauty.
Course Highlights:
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- The Symmetrical Difference Concept: Experience a modern approach that presents all hexatonic scales as part of 12-tone aggregate lines, resulting in melodic phrases of immense complexity and beauty.
- Extensive Aggregate Library: Master 24 aggregate permutations per scale, fully transposed into every key to build a truly modern melodic vocabulary.
- Detailed Analytical Profile: Gain deep structural insights with detailed breakdowns of Scale Degrees, Forte numbers, and Set Class listings for every scale.
- Digital Practice Integration: Includes MIDI files for every exercise, ensuring total pitch accuracy and an efficient workflow for mastering these complex lines.
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Technique
Bridging the gap between the mind and the fingers. These technical manuals focus on the physical mechanics required to execute 3-note and 6-note groupings with speed, clarity, and rhythmic precision.
ChopBusters
The ChopBuster series is a comprehensive collection of 18 specialized volumes designed to bridge the gap between abstract set theory and fluid physical execution. By focusing on specific pitch-class sets (such as 013, 027, and 013679) and structured “Pyramid” or “Rotation” routines, these exercises provide a systematic path to mastering modern improvisational shapes. Whether you are navigating diatonic chords of the major modes, symmetrical diminished structures, or complex trichord sequences, the series offers a rigorous workout for all instrumentalists looking to expand their technical and harmonic range.
Course Highlights:
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- Comprehensive Pitch-Class Mastery: A rigorous 18-volume series dedicated to internalizing advanced structures like 013, 025, 027, and complex hexatonic sets through targeted technical drills.
- Multi-Dimensional Study Patterns: Features a wide variety of exercise types, including Ascending/Descending sequences, “Pyramid” routines, rotations, and octave displacements for total fretboard and keyboard fluency.
- Harmonic & Melodic Versatility: Designed for all instrumentalists, these exercises cover everything from closed-position chord voicings for chordal instruments to sophisticated “sweeps” and modal sequences for melodic players.
- Deep Modal Integration: Systematically explores every key and mode—including Major, Symmetrical Diminished, and more—to ensure you can apply modern intervals naturally in any musical context.
- Integrated Digital Practice Tools: Every volume is supported by MIDI files and multi-tempo MP3s, allowing students to verify pitch accuracy, develop their ear, and progressively build speed from a crawl to professional tempos.
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Improvisation, Composition, Ear Training, Sight Singing
Harmonic and Melodic Equivalence
The Harmonic and Melodic Equivalence Series is a groundbreaking collection of courses dedicated to the art of Pitch Class Set Improvisation. By isolating and exploring 44 unique two-triad and two-trichord pairs, this series provides a systematic bridge between abstract set theory and practical application. These combinations are selected specifically for their modern melodic contours and harmonic depth, reflecting the sophisticated vocabulary used by advanced composers and improvisers.
More than just a technical manual, this series serves as a high-level ear training and sight-singing resource. By working through these exercises against a fixed key center (supported by MetroDrone® technology), musicians learn to internalize complex structures without losing their harmonic anchor. Whether you are a composer looking for new textures or a performer aiming for “Post-Bebop” fluency, this series offers a unique and comprehensive path to mastery that is currently unmatched in contemporary music education.
Course Highlights:
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- Advanced Pitch Class Set Improvisation: A groundbreaking series of books exploring 44 unique two-triad and two-trichord pairs, offering a comprehensive roadmap for modern melodic and harmonic development.
- Holistic Musical Development: While designed for advanced improvisation, these exercises serve as a powerful tool for sight singing and ear training, specifically engineered to improve key retention and intervallic awareness.
- Systematic Key Center Mastery: Each course includes 12 MetroDrone® MP3s and specific technical exercises to help you internalize complex structures within a stable key center, preventing the common pitfall of “hearing in multiple keys.”
- Practical Application & Background: Every volume includes a detailed PDF that provides the theoretical background of the pair, along with clear instructions on how to apply these sophisticated shapes to various chord types in all 12 keys.
- Versatile Learning Formats: Available as individual volumes or a complete bundle, each course features treble and bass clef exercises and MIDI support, making it an essential resource for all instrumentalists and composers.
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9240 Trichord Pairs: Scale & Prime Form Reference
This massive resource provides a “birds-eye view” of the entire 12-tone system by organizing a vast collection of trichord pairs under their respective parent scales and Prime Forms. By understanding the “parent” structure of a trichord pair, musicians can better organize their practice and see the hidden connections between different melodic shapes. This course is essential for players who want to simplify complex harmonic relationships and develop a more structured approach to modern improvisation across the entire chromatic spectrum.
Course Highlights:
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- Comprehensive Trichord Mapping: A massive library of trichord pairs systematically grouped by their parent scales and Prime Forms for a structured view of the 12-tone system.
- Universal Harmonic Relationships: Includes all 12 trichords, meticulously categorized by their specific relationships to eight common 7th chord types to ensure practical application.
- Detailed Structural Analysis: Features an in-depth breakdown for every combination, including precise Scale Degrees and Prime Form designations for advanced study.
- Optimized Practice Tools: Every exercise is presented in Treble Clef and includes high-quality MIDI files to help you master these complex shapes with total pitch accuracy.
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COMING SOON: Trichord Harmonic Analysis
This course provides a systematic map of every three-note subset hidden within Charlie Banacos’ legendary chord tone and tension lists. Designed to help musicians “mushroom” their existing vocabulary, the system shows you how to take a simple melodic idea and transpose it onto sophisticated harmonic structures to create cutting-edge colors with ease. By bridging the gap between basic shapes and complex tensions, this resource allows you to navigate modern jazz and contemporary fusion harmonies with total confidence and a refined sonic palette.
Course Highlights:
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- Complete Harmonic Analysis: Gain a deep understanding of all 12 trichords meticulously analyzed in every key for total melodic flexibility.
- Systematic Chord Categorization: Each of the 12 trichords is categorized by its relationship to eight common 7th chord types, making it easy to apply these shapes to standard progressions.
- Vocabulary Expansion (Mushrooming): Learn to map simple three-note ideas onto complex tension lists to generate sophisticated, “post-bebop” melodic lines effortlessly.
- Digital Practice Tools: Includes professional Treble Clef notation and MIDI files for every exercise to ensure absolute pitch accuracy and faster technical mastery.
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COMING SOON: Turnarounds with Trichords
This course is designed to bridge the gap between abstract theory and real-world performance. By applying the “mushrooming” concept to standard turnaround progressions, these etudes provide a practical path to mastering modern jazz colors. The curriculum is structured to challenge your fluency, moving from exercises with a full-measure focus to rapid, two-beat changes. This systematic approach ensures that you can navigate common harmonic shifts with the sophisticated, cutting-edge vocabulary used by today’s top improvisers.
Course Highlights:
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- Functional Progression Mastery: Bridge the gap between theory and performance by applying advanced trichord “mushrooming” techniques directly to standard turnaround patterns.
- Progressive Rhythmic Challenges: Develop fluid execution by moving from full-measure focus to rapid two-beat changes, ensuring you can handle fast-moving harmonic environments.
- Internalize Modern Colors: Learn to naturally weave sophisticated jazz and post-bebop colors into your improvisations through targeted, musical etudes.
- Digital Practice Support: Includes MIDI files for every exercise, allowing you to practice at any tempo and verify your pitch accuracy in every key.
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Guitar Studies
Fretboard-specific mastery. These resources translate complex hexatonic concepts specifically for the guitar, focusing on unique fingerings, arpeggio shapes, and fretboard visualization techniques.
COMING SOON: 013 Hexatonic Études for Dominant 7th
Unlock the potential of the most influential pitch class set in modern jazz and contemporary music. This course provides a deep dive into the 013 structure, specifically targeting its application over Dominant 7th chords to create high-level melodic vocabulary. Through a series of specialized études, you will learn to navigate these sophisticated shapes with confidence, gaining the “cutting-edge” sound used by elite modern improvisers to break away from traditional scale-based playing.
Course Highlights:
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- Contextual Application: Master the 013 pitch class set through musical études written over standard vamps and progressions, ensuring immediate real-world usability.
- High-Level Melodic Vocabulary: Develop sophisticated lines specifically designed for Dominant 7th chords, providing you with modern “post-bebop” colors that cut through any musical mix.
- Rhythmic Diversity: Move beyond predictable eighth-note patterns with modern phrasing and rhythmic variations that reflect contemporary improvisational styles.
- Massive Audio Support: Includes an expansive library of over 12,000 MP3s, serving as a powerful tool for both ear training and immersive play-along practice.
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Ear Training
If you can’t hear it, you can’t play it. Using the renowned Muse-Eek method, these courses train your ear to recognize modern tonal relationships and internalize the unique “colors” of every trichord and hexatonic scale.
COMING SOON: SerialEar: The Tonal Relationship Method
Inspired by the legendary Charlie Banacos, SerialEar is a transformative ear training method that moves beyond isolated intervals to teach you how to hear the fundamental three-note “DNA” of modern music. By practicing these sounds against a constant drone, you learn to map the entire 12-tone clock relative to a singular harmonic “Home.” This course functions as a daily meditation on resonance, designed to create total transparency between your ear, your mind, and your instrument. It is an incredibly rich resource that bridges the gap between pure ear training and high-level improvisation, allowing you to master every possible three-note combination found in music.
Course Highlights:
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- Beyond Interval Training: Move past “intervals in a vacuum” to internalize the 3-note DNA that forms the building blocks of modern harmonic structures.
- Relative Pitch Mastery: Map the 12-tone clock against a fixed drone to develop a deep, visceral understanding of how every note resonates relative to a tonal center.
- Dual-Purpose Practice: Use these files as a powerful ear training tool or as a play-along resource to improve your ability to improvise around any 3-note combination.
- Total Musical Transparency: A “daily meditation” on sound designed to remove the barriers between what you hear in your head and what you execute on your instrument.
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2. COMING SOON: Hexatonic One-Note Ear Training
A high-level challenge for the serious ear. You are presented with a trichord-pair key center—ranging from standard progressions to highly dissonant clusters—and asked to identify a single pitch. This builds the ability to recognize tonal centers in even the most exotic harmonic environments.
Composing
Beyond improvisation. Explore how to use these modern tools to craft original music, using symmetrical logic and set theory to develop a unique and sophisticated compositional voice.
3. COMING SOON: Trichord Ear Training Encyclopedia
A 3-page “Birds-Eye View” PDF chart listing all 12 trichords and the specific common chords they work over. Based on the Banacos tension lists, this is an essential resource for anyone looking to replace vanilla harmony with modern, sophisticated sounds.





























