Non Scale Tones as Passing Notes

by Ahsan
(Australia)

Playing a song in C-Major..

C D E F G A B C

I have seen that sometimes in mid of a song. D# is also played. What is the name of this technique and how it is actually done. It makes songs more beautiful.

ANSWER

Hi, Ahsan--

Without a specific example, it it difficult to give a specific answer. Generally non-scale tones are used as "passing" tones--just a way to get from one scale tone to another.

It is quite possible that this note is an Eb rather than a D# (although many writing programs write in sharps by default).

If it is meant to be Eb, it is the flatted 3rd of the scale, which is often used before the 3rd, especially in blues or jazz style songs.

Hope this helps. If you can give me a specific example, I can provide you with a more detailed explanation.

Best Wishes,
Lynne