Unveiling the Secrets of the Blues Guitar Scale in Minor

Are you an aspiring guitarist looking to delve into the world of blues? Well, you're in luck! In this article, we will uncover the secrets behind playing the blues guitar scale in minor, uncovering the essence of this soulful genre. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced guitarist, the tips and tricks shared here will help you master this iconic scale and make your blues guitar solos shine brightly. So, grab your pick and let's dive into the world of the blues!

Understanding the Blues Scale

The blues scale is a fundamental musical concept that lays the foundation for blues music. It is characterized by its distinctive sound and evokes a range of emotions, from melancholy to celebration. Mastering the blues guitar scale in minor is crucial for anyone seeking to embrace the soulful side of music.

The blues scale consists of six notes: the root, the minor third, the fourth, the flat fifth, the fifth, and the dominant seventh. This combination of notes creates the unique sound associated with blues music.

How to play the Blues Guitar Scale in E [minor] - Secrets of the Guitar

by Herman Brock Jr.(Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	509 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	17 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Hand Placement and Technique

Now that you understand the essence of the blues scale, it's time to learn how to play it on your guitar. To begin, we need to understand hand placement and technique.

Start by positioning your hand in a comfortable and relaxed manner on the neck of the guitar. Remember, relaxed fingers are essential for fluid playing. Place your index finger on the root note, and your pinky finger on the fifth note of the scale. This hand placement will provide optimum control and reach.

Next, you need to practice the appropriate finger movements to ensure smooth transitions between notes. Utilize alternate picking during your practice sessions to improve speed and accuracy. Don't rush through the scale; instead, focus on precision and clarity.

The Secrets Behind the Minor Blues Scale

While the blues scale is often associated with a major key, let's explore its less commonly discussed minor variation. The minor blues scale adds a touch of intensity and sadness to your solos, opening up a whole new realm of musical expression.

The minor blues scale is derived from the natural minor scale, but it incorporates the flattened fifth. This alteration gives the minor blues scale its distinct sound. To create the scale, follow this formula: root, minor third, fourth, flatted fifth, fifth, minor seventh.

Now that you understand the theory behind the minor blues scale, it's time to put it into practice. Start by playing the scale slowly, paying close attention to the sound and feel of each note. Once you're comfortable with the scale, experiment with different techniques such as bends, slides, and vibrato to add your personal touch to each phrase.

Jamming with the Blues

No discussion about blues guitar is complete without mentioning the importance of jamming. Blues is a genre best experienced and mastered through live collaboration with other musicians.

Find a fellow guitarist or a local blues jam session to immerse yourself in the world of live blues playing. Jamming allows you to put your newfound skills to the test, experiment with improvisation and learn from other seasoned blues musicians.

Remember, the blues is not only about technical proficiency but also about feeling the music in your soul. Let yourself succumb to the emotion and express your inner blues through your guitar.

Never Stop Learning

The journey of mastering the blues guitar scale in minor is a lifelong process. Even blues legends who have made their mark on music still continue to learn and grow. Keep practicing, exploring new techniques, and listening to a wide range of blues artists to expand your understanding and style.

The blues is a genre that thrives on creativity and personal interpretation. So, let your passion guide you as you explore the secrets of the blues guitar scale in minor. With time, dedication, and a heartfelt connection to the music, you will unleash your inner blues master!

How to play the Blues Guitar Scale in E [minor] - Secrets of the Guitar

by Herman Brock Jr.(Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	509 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	17 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Learn how to play the blues scale in E minor.
Learn all the blues scale patterns on the different positions on the neck, and how to switch from one to another position fast.

Available in this series:

Secrets of the Guitar - How to read tabs and tablature
Secrets of the Guitar - How to play the Blues scale in E
Secrets of the Guitar - How to play the E pentatonic scale
Secrets of the Guitar - How to play the G major pentatonic scale
Secrets of the Guitar - How to play the Aeolian or natural minor scale in A
Secrets of the Guitar - How to play Do-Re-Mi, the Ionian or major scale in C