Re: Changing Keys in a Song...Can Someone Help Me Understand it?
A simple answer:
Bluegrass is more "tradition-bound" than any music o/t classical, so most tunes are "traditionally" played in a specific key. They don't need to be, that's just the way folks do it. AND they tend to center on guitar/mandolin/banjo-friendly keys such as G, D, & A. (Counterpoint: Bluegrass is younger than most other types of music, but Bill Monroe pretty much dictated the form from the '40s on, and many fervently follow his tradition.)
A more complete answer:
Any song can be played in any key. A normal reason for changing key is fit the higher or lower vocal range of a singer. Or to be different. Or to have fun. Be careful: This could lead you to "Newgrass", itself now 40-ish years old!
A more practical answer:
"Music Theory for Dummies" is a surprisingly easy read. Or The Complete Idiot's Guide to Music Theory; they're both good. While they might seem daunting, they'll save you much effort & confusion, allowing you to deal with future situations with a degree of grace & understanidng... especially when the "Bluegrass Police" come knocking. But that's a whole 'nuther conversation!
And further:
- Most BG songs use just 3 major chords, so minor chords can be put on the back burner.
- Structurally, BG songs tend to be simple. But performance, with each instrument taking alternating leads, is a bit more complex, approaching (dare I say it?) jazz.
I'll be quiet now!
- Ed
"Then one day we weren't as young as before
Our mistakes weren't quite so easy to undo
But by all those roads, my friend, we've travelled down
I'm a better man for just the knowin' of you."
- Ian Tyson
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