Comping Range

Let’s consider range when comping with an ensemble. Guitar is a fairly low range instrument. One of the first things we may consider is how we fit in with the bass player. Bass lines often range up to our open third string and can go beyond that point. We can also find that G below middle C on the fifth fret of the fourth string and the tenth fret of the fifth string. Now we will consider the fifth string and below as area to avoid for the most part while comping. Let’s now think about the upper range. It is okay for soloists to play in the low and middle range, but we may want to avoid their upper range as they try to cut through the mix. So we will avoid the first string as well. This gives us with the fourth, third and second strings to work with. I’m not suggesting that we never play other strings while comping. rather that we can use these three strings as a staple source of notes for voicings. So what do we play with these strings? Often times the third and seventh of a chord work really well on the third and forth. Occasionally, we may play a sixth and a third. Then the second string we can use to play a nine, eleven or thirteen of some type. Try this out next time you’re playing with a band or with a recording. You may find that your comping is fitting right in. You will also allow the bassist plenty of room for creativity with her lines.