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by Mike Campese
Moving Around the Neck
This lesson I will be showing you a great way to practice scales - it will help you move up the neck very quickly and is a great way to master the fretboard. It is important to be able to play in every key, all over the neck, and to be able to shift smoothly into different positions.
In the beginning when you first learn scale patterns, they are usually played up and down the neck, instead of across. You can take any scale and play it anywhere on the neck - it's simply the same notes repeated in different octaves.
I will be playing four notes on each string, shifting with the pinky when ascending and shifting with the index finger descending. Feel free to experiment with different fingers. Notice the shift happens after the third tone on each string. I charted the scales descending so you can see how I do it, but make sure you try other ways. Also, when you descend, play the same notes in reverse, shifting with your index finger. You can really fly up the neck if you practice this way.
Example 1) For our first example, we will take a G major scale (G, A, B, C , D , E, F#) across the neck in three octaves. Follow the fingerings listed so you can play this smoothly, shifting with your pinky. There are many ways you can play this scale across the neck, this is just one way.
Example 2) Now lets take a G minor scale (G, A, Bb, C, D, Eb, F) and play it the same way we did with the G major.
Example 3) Here is an extended G Phrygian scale (G, Ab, Bb, C, D, Eb, F). This is the same as the G minor scale, but with a flatted 2nd. Try this with other modes - you can really develop your ear if you play scales across the neck.
Example 4) Now for our final scale, a G minor pentatonic (G, Bb, C, D, F). Lots of people tend to play the pentatonic scale straight up and down; this is a great way to add a unique sound to your playing. Again, be sure to follow the fingerings supplied.
Now here are the same scales, descending.
Be sure to visit mikecampese.com for the latest CD's and info.
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