Hi everyone. This time around we’re going to look at Linear Scales.
So, what are Linear Scales?
Simple really – from the very start we’re used to seeing scales arranged for guitar in to box shapes from the 6th string across to the 1st across a box of 4-frets, as we did when we started out with Total Beginner Guitar. Those box shapes are great for all kinds of things,a dn they can enable really rapid development as a player, but they only let you work across the fretboard perpendicular to the strings. What about moving across the strings from one end of the neck to the other? Like the pros do when they unleash a blizzard of notes ending right up high on the neck?
So Ren to the rescue with Linear Scales! The same notes and intervals as you find in the scale, but rearranged on one string rather than across 6. Sounds easier right? Well… I guess in some respects it is, but you need to be super disciplined with your fretting hand and stay in pattern or you’ll tie your fingers in knots!
For reference, the Technique and Scale articles that you may find useful as background to the exercises that follow are:
Minor Pentatonic
The Lydian Scale
The exercises below can be played ‘straight’ with a fixed number of notes over a bar, or ‘free time’ where the timing is manipulated so as to leave a different number of notes over each bar. The techniques require dexterity and coordination between your picking and fretting hands. Start slow, and work on this in small regular sessions, making sure to keep your hands and shoulders relaxed. If you experience any pain in your hand, stop!
All the examples below are in A minor, and you can turn them in to instant lead guitar over a backing track like this one:
Some Examples
In the first three examples, every note played is picked, though you might want to experiment with picking the first note in each triplet and then hammer or pull the other notes in the sequence.
1) An A minor scale starting at the 5th fret of the high E string. Play each triplet, sliding your index finger to the next position, ascending and descending:
2) In this exercise lead with your 4th (pinky) finger, with each triplet descending:
3) Linear scales across strings. This exercise is good for visualising the relationship between the Am scale and the rest of the modal patterns across the fretboard:
4) Am Legato
Hammer ons: h.
Pull offs: p.
Vibrato: ~.
Bends: b.
Release bend: br.
Tap: t.
Slides: sl.
And that’s Linear Scales for you. You can find more articles on scales and guitar technique to help you develop as a player here. If you’ve got any questions please get in touch on Facebook or Twitter.
If you start feeling your fingers seizing up, please take a break. It is very easy to get carried away with this stuff once you start flying!
Download the Lesson HERE!
