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Minor scales are essential to guitar playing, and mastering them can help you create evocative melodies and solos. In this article, we'll provide a comprehensive guide to minor scales on guitar, including the different types of minor scales, how to play them, and how to use them in your playing.
1. Understanding the Types of Minor Scales
There are three main types of minor scales: natural minor, harmonic minor, and melodic minor. The natural minor scale is the most common and is often used in rock, blues, and metal music. The harmonic minor scale features a raised seventh note, which creates a distinctive sound. The melodic minor scale features a raised sixth and seventh note when ascending, but is played like the natural minor when descending.
2. Learning the Natural Minor Scale
The natural minor scale is the foundation for the other two types of minor scales. To play the natural minor scale in the key of A, start on the fifth fret of the low E string and play the following pattern: whole step, half step, whole step, whole step, half step, whole step, whole step. This pattern can be moved up and down the neck to play the scale in different keys.
3. Mastering the Harmonic Minor Scale
To play the harmonic minor scale in the key of A, start on the fifth fret of the low E string and play the following pattern: whole step, half step, whole step, whole step, half step, augmented second, half step. The augmented second is a three-fret interval, and is played by moving up two frets instead of one. This scale has a distinctive sound that is often used in classical and metal music.
4. Exploring the Melodic Minor Scale
The melodic minor scale is played differently when ascending and descending. When ascending, the scale features a raised sixth and seventh note, while when descending it is played like the natural minor scale. To play the melodic minor scale in the key of A, start on the fifth fret of the low E string and play the following pattern when ascending: whole step, half step, whole step, whole step, whole step, whole step, half step. When descending, play the natural minor scale pattern.
5. Using Minor Scales in Your Playing
Once you have mastered the different types of minor scales, it's important to use them in your playing. You can use them to create solos, improvisations, and melodies. Try experimenting with different combinations of scales and techniques, such as bends, slides, and vibrato, to create a unique sound.
In conclusion, mastering minor scales on guitar is an important part of becoming a skilled and versatile guitarist. By understanding the different types of minor scales and how to play them, you'll be well on your way to creating evocative and powerful music. So, grab your guitar and start exploring the power of minor scales!