• What’s Scales Got To Do With It?

    in Scales

    So far, you should know:

    –how to build a major scale
    –how to build a minor scale
    –how to build a major chord
    –how to build a minor chord
    –how to play a basic 12-bar blues

    Today, we will focus on scales and chords:

    As you know, chords are created from scales.

    For example, in a (major scale), the (1) (3) and (5) degrees make up the major chord.

    In a (minor scale), the (1) (3) and (5) degrees also make up the minor chord.

    When playing a major chord with your left hand (any inversion), the same major scale can be played with your right hand.

    Try this:

    Play a (C major) chord while playing a c major scale (with the right hand.)

    Sounds good doesn’t it?

    The same principle applies to the minor scale. While a minor chord is being played in the left hand, the same minor scale (or the blues scale if you prefer) can be played with the right hand.

    Note: I personally prefer making patterns up with the blues scale. Try playing the blues scale in your own style!

    ———————
    Arpeggios
    ———————

    “Arpeggio” is the term given when each tone of a chord is played separately (but in order).

    So instead of playing (C) (E) (G) all at once, you play (C), then (E), then (G). While playing a C major chord in your left hand, you can play arpeggios in the right hand. This creates a nice combination!

    Try this: Play the chord changes in lesson 7 on your left hand. With your right hand, play the corresponding major scales to each chord.

    -The 300-pg workbook teaches scales and chords in depth. Visit:

    https://www.hearandplay.com/course

    … for more information!

    Thank you for your time once again and good luck with those arpeggios!

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    Hi, I'm Jermaine Griggs, founder of this site. We teach people how to express themselves through the language of music. Just as you talk and listen freely, music can be enjoyed and played in the same way... if you know the rules of the "language!" I started this site at 17 years old in August 2000 and more than a decade later, we've helped literally millions of musicians along the way. Enjoy!




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