In this post, we’ll explore how these two-note chords can revolutionize your approach to worship guitar and take your playing to the next level.
You can either watch the lesson or continue reading below…
What Are Diads?
Diads are simply two-note chords consisting of two different pitches. They’re the simplest form of harmony you can create on the guitar, offering a more open and ambiguous sound compared to traditional triads. This open quality allows diads to cut through the mix more effectively, especially when using overdriven tones.
The Power of Removing the Middle Note
The key to unlocking the power of diads lies in removing the middle note from standard triads. By eliminating this middle tone, we create three versatile diad shapes that can be used to play any major or minor chord across the fretboard. Here’s how it works:
- Start with your standard major or minor triads on strings 4, 3, and 2.
- Remove the note on the 3rd string (G string).
- You’re left with three distinct diad shapes that can be moved around the fretboard.
The Three Diad Shapes
- Shape 1: One fret gap between notes (e.g., 5th fret on 4th string, 7th fret on 2nd string).
- Shape 2: No fret gap, notes adjacent (e.g., 5th fret on 4th string, 5th fret on 2nd string).
- Shape 3: Both notes on the same fret (e.g., 7th fret on both 4th and 2nd strings).
Benefits of Using Diads in Worship Guitar
- Improved Cut-Through: Diads pierce through dense mixes better than full chords or triads.
- Enhanced Maneuverability: With just two notes, it’s easier to move quickly around the fretboard.
- Greater Melodic Possibilities: The open structure of diads allows for more melodic embellishments.
- Versatility: These three shapes can be used to play any major or minor chord in any key.
Practical Application: The G-C-Em-D Progression
Let’s apply this concept to a common worship progression: G – C – Em – D. Using our three diad shapes, we can play this progression in multiple positions on the fretboard:
G: (3-5), (7-7), (10-12) C: (5-7), (8-10), (12-12)
Em: (2-3), (7-8), (10-10) D: (5-7), (9-10), (12-14)
By utilizing these different positions, you can create more dynamic and interesting guitar parts that flow up and down the neck.
Adding Embellishments
One of the great advantages of diads is the freedom they provide for embellishments. With spare fingers available, you can easily add hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides to create more melodic interest. For example:
- On a G diad: Hammer-on from the 3rd to 5th fret on the 2nd string
- On a C diad: Pull-off from the 8th to 7th fret on the 4th string
- On a D diad: Slide from the 5th to 7th fret on both strings
Real-World Application
Let’s look at how this technique can be applied to popular worship songs:
- “Cornerstone” (Hillsong): In the bridge, use diads to create a more open, flowing sound for the F – Am – G – C progression.
- “Alleluia” (Jesus Culture): Apply diads to the D – A – E – F#m progression for a more cutting, melodic approach.
Mastering the use of diads can truly transform your worship guitar playing. By removing the middle note from standard triads, you unlock a world of tonal possibilities, improved cut-through, and enhanced melodic freedom.
Practice incorporating these shapes into your playing, experiment with embellishments, and watch as your guitar parts take on new life and impact in the worship setting.
Remember, the key to mastering this technique is practice and experimentation. Start by incorporating diads into familiar progressions, then gradually apply them to your church’s worship repertoire.
Before long, you’ll find yourself creating more dynamic, engaging guitar parts that serve the song and enhance the overall worship experience.
