Four note group

In music, four note group patterns, alternately called "four-note digital patterns" or simply "four note patterns", are one of many ways to formulate improvised solos in jazz. "Four-Note Grouping is an improvisation technique that uses major and minor triads along with specific passing notes as a means of generating lines. The concept of Four-Note Groupings lets the lines be more 'out' and stretch the possibility of available notes over a chord due to the structural integrity of the triad-based line."

Four note group devices

 * Diatonic scale fragment
 * Arpeggio (of current chord, altered harmony or an implied passing chord)
 * Chromatic approach note (a note preceding a chord tone or scale tone one semitone above or below)
 * Chromatic surround notes (two notes preceding a chord tone one semitone above and below)
 * Pentatonic scale fragment

Examples

 * John Coltrane: "Giant Steps" solo