Understanding and Mastering the Minor Scale on Guitar

The minor scale, also known as the Aeolian mode, is a fundamental building block of music that is commonly used in various genres such as rock, blues and jazz. It is made up of seven notes and is the foundation for many popular songs. Understanding and mastering the minor scale on guitar is an essential step for any musician looking to improve their playing skills and expand their musical vocabulary.

Understanding Intervals and Formulas

To demystify the minor scale, it is important to first understand the intervals between each note on the scale. A natural minor scale is built using the formula: whole step, half step, whole step, whole step, half step, whole step, whole step. Using the A minor scale as an example, this means that there is a half-step between the notes A and B, as well as between E and F.

Two Types of Minor Scales: Natural and Harmonic

It is also important to note that there are two types of minor scales: natural minor and harmonic minor. The harmonic minor scale has a raised seventh scale degree, which creates a more dissonant sound. The formula for the harmonic minor scale is: whole step, half step, whole step, whole step, half step, whole and a half step, half step.

Understanding the Relationship between the Relative Major and Minor Scales

Another important concept in understanding the minor scale is the relative major scale. Each minor scale has a corresponding major scale that shares the same key signature. For example, the relative major scale of A minor is C major, and the relative major scale of E minor is G major. Understanding the relationship between the relative major and minor scales can help you navigate different keys more easily.

Learning the Notes of the Minor Scale

In addition to understanding the intervals and formula for building a minor scale, it is also important to learn the notes of the minor scale. The notes of the A minor scale, for example, are A, B, C, D, E, F, G. By memorizing these notes and their relationship to the intervals, you can easily play the minor scale in any key.

Learning All Twelve Minor Scales on Guitar

To further your understanding of the minor scale, you can also learn all twelve minor scales on the guitar. There are free lessons available for commonly-used minor scales, such as A, E, D, and G. You can also use tools like the Fender Tune app, which offers thousands of chord and scale diagrams, to help you learn more.

Expanding Your Musical Vocabulary through the Minor Scale on Guitar

In summary, understanding and mastering the minor scale on guitar is an essential step for any musician looking to expand their musical vocabulary. By understanding the intervals and formula for building a minor scale, the relationship between the relative major and minor scales, memorizing the notes and exploring different positions and concepts can help you take your guitar playing to new heights.