

It’s the note you typically start and end on when playing the scale (though not always). A root note is what gives a scale its name. What Is a Root Note?Įvery scale has what is called a root.

So even if you’re strictly a rhythm guitarist or songwriter, you can still benefit from learning them. They are also used to identify intervals, build chords, chart progressions, play by numbers, as well as compose vocal melodies and harmonies. But scales aren’t solely used for the purpose of playing lead guitar. These notes can be used to make up solos and melodies to play over a group of chord progressions that also sound good together.įor this reason, guitarists who want to play lead really need to learn their scales. What exactly is a scale and what’s its purpose? A scale is simply a group of notes that sound really good together. The notes in their solos are all related and work together for a reason. King, Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, Joe Bonamassa, and all the greats are celebrated for their improvisational skills.ĭon’t think for a second they’re just playing random notes real fast. Jimi Hendrix, Jimmy Page, David Gilmour, Eric Clapton, B.B.
#A minor pentatonic scale how to#
While it’s true that there are guitarists who go their whole careers learning riffs and making up licks without knowing how to read music or play scales, mastering scales is an important part of your development as a guitarist. They are the key to improvisation and the ability to play killer solos, and they can actually be fun to practice - once you know how. In truth, scales are one of the most indispensable tools you can have in your guitar-playing arsenal. They smack of theory and are boring to play, right? But let’s face it, the sheer number of scales to learn can be overwhelming. If you have been a guitarist for any length of time, you’ve no doubt heard about scales and how you need to know them. + Combine theory, improvisation, and jazzy hip-hop, and improve your piano chops with Grammy-winner Kiefer in Kiefer: Keys, Chords, & Beats.
