Scales & Theory Page

Below are the scales we will be using during the Summer of Rock Camp. For keyboard players and other instruments here are the pitches of the scales used. (more info for pianists and other instruments coming soon) Remember, scales are played one note at a time, not together like a chord.

E Minor Pentatonic uses the following pitches: E - G - A - B - D - E

  • practice playing the pitches from low to high - up and down in order
  • then practice skipping notes and improvising with the notes
  • improvise on this scale to the songs that use this scale

E Minor Blues uses the following pitches: E - G - A - Bb- B - D - E

  • compare E Minor Blues to E Minor Pentatonic
  • notice the only added note is the "Bb" (half step below B)

A Minor Pentatonic uses the following pitches: A - C - D - E - G - A

  • follow instructions from above
  • improvise on this scale to the songs that use this scale

A Minor Blues uses the following pitches: A - C - D - Eb - E - G - A

  • compare A Minor Blues to A Minor Pentatonic
  • notice the only added note is the "Eb" (half step below E)

 

 

~Keep Checking Back - This page will continue to be updated with exercises and "hot licks". If you notice any mistakes or have any questions on the material please email info@tangledtones.com - Thank you and play on!~
Below are the above scales in various positions for guitar. The scales are read left to right, playing open strings (if there are any, first). Please observe the Key to the right.

White Dots are the Root Notes of Scales (ie. E is the root of the Em Pentatonic Scale)

Circled notes are the "Blues Note" of the Blues Scales

E Minor Pentatonic - Open Position

E Minor Pentatonic - 7th Position (Beginning note is on the "A" String)

E Minor Pentatonic - 12th Position (Beginning note is on the low "E" String)

E Minor Blues - Open Position

E Minor Blues - 7th Position

E Minor Blues - 12th Position

A Minor Pentatonic - Open Position

A Minor Pentatonic - 5th Position (Beginning note is on the low "E" String)

A Minor Pentatonic - 12th Position (Beginning note is on the low "A" String)

A Minor Blues - Open Position

A Minor Blues - 5th Position

A Minor Blues - 12th Position