Playing A Melody That Appears On A Lead Sheet

[Joe S.]

Hi: Can anyone give me a clue as to which position to choose when playing the melody that appears on a lead sheet?
Joe S.

[M-ster]

A quick note of key signature and a scan of the general range should provide starting points. Since you asked "which position," I assume you're a guitarist, so I'd suggest that you transpose up an octave from what the lead sheet shows (so that the guitar will sound at "concert pitch").

[Joe S.]

Hi M-ster: I'm aware of that. However, the dilemma is which position to use when playing the melody an octave higher than written on the lead sheet .
ie. . Let's assume that the tune is in C major. There are at least 3 positions that I can think of [probably more] where the melody is transposed up an octave. Going through all 3 positions is very time consuming to say the least!
What I'm looking for is some clue into the correct position to use the very first time when transcribing the lead sheet for guitar.
However, thank you for your reply.
Joe

[mr. beaumont]

There is no "correct" position, unless we're talking about a very "guitar specific" piece---like "bright sized life" or something.

generally, I try to grab the melody somewhere between the third and tenth fret or so. I like the tone of the guitar best in the middle register, and I will usually opt for a fretted note intead of an open string for continuity in that tone.

When I'm playing solo, all bets are off, however.

[circle110]

You have encountered the reason why it is so dang tough to sight read on the guitar! There never is a truly good answer to that question - only the horse sense developed from years of playing and reading can really help.

Just pick one of those 3 positions and go with it - it may or may not be the "best" position but that doesn't matter at this stage. I generally don't play a melody in one position anyway since it tends to be less fluid (Better yet, look at the videos of Wes, Benson, Metheny etc. -- they rarely play a tune in one position.)

However, when you're sight reading a new tune you have to keep your eyes on the paper and settling into one position can be a lifesaver. It doesn't matter which position, just one you are comfortable with.

Later, when you learn the tune, you'll want to find a way to play it that is most musical and you very well may decide to slide between a few positions, depending on the melody.

Again, watch Wes on videos. He was slip, sliding all over the neck... very horizontal. THAT'S the way to play a sweet melody!

So, for sight reading or learning - position doesn't matter and any one will do as long as the notes are reachable. Later, when you want to really learn the tune and add it to your repertoire, check the masters for how to approach fingering.

Youtube rocks for the guitar student!!

[GodinFan]

I'd scan the tune looking for the highest note in the melody. Most vocal melodies stay within an octave and a half or less, so if you find a position where the highest note is available, the lowest one likely will be as well.

[docbop]

On guitar it's players choice not like other instruments where each note is only one place. Also it gets into what are you comfortable with some know some areas of the guitar better than others. Also what timbre are you looking for playing. Then how you going to phrasing it and embellish it will influence your choice.

It really is up to you.

[bkdavidson]

+1 for what Mr. B said. I generally like the warmer sound you get in the middle of the neck and on the bigger strings.

[cosmic gumbo]

I scan the melody, look at the range it covers, and usually choose the position that will use the least amount of shifts or stretches. Each player will choose their own position after some experience with what gives them the tone and playability that suits them.

[M-ster]

Originally Posted by mr. beaumont

There is no "correct" position ...

Echoing Mr. B, here, Joe.