Easy runs (Läufe, Übergänge)

 On Guitar, String Bass, Hammered Dulcimer and Other Accompanying Instruments

Every run has its target, points toward an important note (tone), for instance toward the fundamental note of the following progression step. It is not important where the run starts or how the run moves. It is only important where it leads.

Runs and arpeggios can decorate a melody to a great extent, if it is not over done. A good place for this is a measure where the melody is paused, or during a long melody note. A good place is also the measure before the next change in melody. If more than one instrument plays such add-ons, they should play exactly the same or only the instrument with the greatest volume should play these runs.

I explain the progression steps on a different web page: Easy multiple voices.

1. Black characters are used for 1^st step progressions, -I-, tonic

2. Red characters are used for 5^th step progressions, -V-, dominant

3. Green characters indicate 4^th step progressions. , -IV-, subdominant

4. dash "-" is used for accompanying chords

Every character counts for a quarter note (1/8 note in case of a polka), the measure bar is indicated by a slash. Underlined notes have half of the length, and therefore have to be played at double speed. The numbers indicate the position number of the note in the diatonic scale or octave, if a number is subscript it is from the next lower octave if the number is superscript it is to be played on the next higher octave. You can find more about this subject in Harmonic theory. 

All these runs are only examples. There are many more, far too many examples and possibilities for runs. You can improvise to your heart’s content.

In addition to this, you can use any arpeggio taken from chords, as I have explained for the hammered dulcimer, but don’t overdo it. The bass accompaniment should support and decorate the melody, not overpower the melody.

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Franz Fuchs Volksmusikschule