Song for Chano in A#

Song for Chano in A#

Song for Chano in A#: Ray Barretto, arr. Hector Martignon's Latin jazz classic. Dorian and Harmonic Minor scales define the exotic, modal color of these sophisticated changes. Chords: A#m7 – G# – F#Maj7 – D#m7 – C# – BMaj7 – Fm7b5 – F7.

Song for Chano in A#

A# (Bb) major requires barre chords rooted at fret 1 on the A string or fret 6 on the E string. Despite the barre demands, it is a common key in funk, New Orleans R&B, and brass band music. The open D string can ring as the major third for added color. A# is a intermediate-level key on guitar because the open D string is the major 3rd of Bb, adding a bright color if allowed to ring. Expect to rely on barre chords throughout, which builds hand strength and unlocks the entire fretboard.

Voice Leading

The bass line moves through A# to G# (descending whole step), G# to F# (descending whole step), F# to D# (descending minor third), D# to C# (descending whole step), C# to B (descending whole step), B to F (ascending tritone), F to F (ascending unison). The predominantly stepwise bass motion creates smooth, connected voice leading. When the progression loops, the bass returns from F to A# by perfect fourth.

Scales for Improvisation

A# major pentatonic works because every note is either a chord tone or a safe passing tone — there are no avoid notes. For soloing, this means you can play freely without clashing. Over dominant seventh chords, A# Mixolydian adds the flat seventh for an authentic blues-rock edge.