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Post new topic Scale Practice
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Author Topic:  Scale Practice
Edward Meisse

 

From:
Santa Rosa, California, USA
Post  Posted 6 Jan 2007 11:17 am    
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I began to get serious about non pedal steel a little over two years ago. I'm very well grounded in theory. So I'm making good progress. But I'm weak in applied music. It looks like most people practice their scales by the octave wherever they are found and in double octave whenever two fit together. I do this, too.
I also have hit upon practicing in key modally. That is, I start at fret 0 and play whatever inversion of the scale is found at that location (say, in Eb, the aeolian mode) across the neck and back. Then I move up to the very next fret where an inversion of the scale is found (again in Eb, 2nd fret, Locrian mode) and do the same thing...on up to the top of the neck.
Is one of these a better way to practice than the other? Is the second way a waste of time? Is there really anyway you can play the guitar that is not a worthwhile use of practice time (barring the obvious, of course)?
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Gary Lynch

 

From:
Creston, California, USA
Post  Posted 6 Jan 2007 11:36 am    
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Edward,

In my opinion the great tunes/sounds by great players were discovered by doing what you are doing and by using the 'outside the box' factor. Mix up the progression of each scale using one note melodies, two note harmonies and three note chords in all types of timing. In other words, play each keys chords and scales in the most unorthodox fashion as well as a controlled lineal progression. At that point we discover some real interesting sounds and changes. Think outside the box. Be creative and pass on your findings to others.
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Randy Reeves


From:
LaCrosse, Wisconsin, USA
Post  Posted 6 Jan 2007 12:46 pm    
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I have to agree. you have described well what I have been doing much of lately. it is a great way to become familiar with a tuning and fretboard. I find that it helps me get out of a box and find surprising and pleasing things. my playing sounds more interesting then.
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