Bi-tonal triads [Keyboard technique]

A bi-tonal triad is simply a triad played over a different bass note. Sometimes a bi-tonal triad will actually spell out a 7[Symbol Not Transcribed] chord -- one triad is interpreted as being the upper extensions of another. Sometimes it will evoke a 7[Symbol Not Transcribed] chord but leave out key notes. Sometimes it will not resemble any known 7[Symbol Not Transcribed] chord -- it will simply have its own quirky sound. This is another way to think about upper structures. In any case, bi-tonal triads have an open sound that is very useful in more impressionistic modern tunes.

Keith's Inspiration is dedicated to Keith Jarrett, who has made ample use of bi-tonal triads throughout …