Scale sequences is a basic method for guitarists to easily create melodies from scales as well as learning how to vary how a scale is played.
To sequence scales is part of the Step 1 in our improvising programme. If you familiarize yourself with how to use this approach for basic scales it will be easier to break away from the very same scales. A sequence is basically a pattern of a few notes that is repeated up and down the scale.
Example 1 is based on the A minor pentatonic scale, and the pattern of the example is: play from the min.3rd (c), then down a min.3rd (a), skip a string, down a 5th to the 4th (d) on the third string, up a 4th to the b7th of the scale (g). The next beat moves sequentially down the scale, then the pattern repeats on the next string (2nd).
Example 2 is based on the D minor pentatonic scale and the following formula: From the 3rd string the 4th (g) move up to the b7th (c), then move down the scale skipping the starting note. Repeat as you go down the scale.
Example 3 is based on the C Major scale (starting on the 7th) and the formula is: up one step, back one , up two steps. Repeat the figure up a 4th. Perform using the hammer-on technique, and get some left-hand dexterity at the same time.
Example 4 is a C minor scale sequence in the style of legendary jazz guitarist Mike Stern (of Miles Davis fame).
Recommended listening: Joe Henderson, John Coltrane, Herbie Hancock, Mike Stern etc.
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