How to Play Walking Bass Chord Comping in Jazz Guitar

Playing an accompanying chord or "comping" is a simple technique which takes practice to properly develop. The walking bass comping style can be used in any chord progression. Build up the style by practicing a two bar chord progression that resolves to a G Major 7 on the down beat of the third major. This progression provides a good baseline for using the comping style with other chord progressions.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Start with the simple progression with a B Minor 7. Hold the chord for two beats.

2. Move to an E7 chord and hold that for two beats.

3. Play an A Minor 7 for two beats.

4. Progress to a D 7 chord and hold it for two beats.

5. Resolve the chord progression with the G Major 7 on the downbeat of the third measure.

6. Change the chord progression by hitting the root of the chord on the first and third beat while playing a passing tone on the second and fourth beats. The passing tone is a half step above or below the root of the next chord in the progression.

7. Use the index, middle and ring finger to apply the chord accents. Try placing the emphasis on the down beats, before switching to the up beats. Practicing this chord progression gives players the experience necessary to apply the comping style to various chord progressions.