Guitar Scale Mastery

Lesson 2: Pentatonic Major Scale

In Lesson 1, we introduced the importance of scales and arpeggios in music.

Now, it’s time to dive into our first scale: the Pentatonic Major scale.

This scale is a fantastic tool for guitarists, as it’s used in a wide range of musical styles, from rock and blues to pop and country.

By the end of this lesson, you’ll have a solid understanding of the Pentatonic Major scale and its five shapes on the guitar.

Understanding the Pentatonic Major Scale

The Pentatonic Major scale is a five-note scale that’s derived from the standard Major scale.

It consists of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, and 6th degrees of the Major scale. The formula for constructing the Pentatonic Major scale is as follows:

1 – 2 – 3 – 5 – 6

In the key of C Major, for example, the Pentatonic Major scale would include the notes C, D, E, G, and

This scale has a bright and uplifting sound and is often used for creating melodies and solos.

Learning the Five Shapes

One of the unique features of the guitar is that scales and arpeggios can be played in various positions and patterns along the fretboard.

The Pentatonic Major scale has five distinct shapes that you should become familiar with.

Each shape is a different fingering pattern that spans across the fretboard.

Application

Once you are comfortable with all five shapes, practice transitioning between them smoothly.

You’ll notice that these shapes can be connected, allowing you to play the Pentatonic Major scale across the entire fretboard.

Experiment with different sequences and patterns to develop your own unique phrases and melodies.

Homework:

1. Practice each of the five Pentatonic Major scale
2. Work on transitioning between the shapes
3. Experiment with creating your own simple melodies using the Pentatonic Major
4. Listen to songs that use the Pentatonic Major scale and try to identify its use in the

In Lesson 3, we’ll introduce Practice Routine 1, which will help you build finger strength, dexterity, and familiarity with the Pentatonic Major scale.

Keep practicing, and you’ll be on your way to mastering this versatile scale.

Lesson 3: Practice Routine 1 – Getting Familiar with G Major Pentatonic Shapes

In this practice routine, we will focus on developing your familiarity with the G Major Pentatonic scale.

We’ll start by playing the first shape over a backing track provided in this lesson.

Then, we’ll go through the same process with the other shapes.

This will help you gain confidence and versatility when using the G Major Pentatonic scale in your guitar playing.

Step 1: Introduction to G Major Pentatonic

Before we start playing, let’s briefly review the G Major Pentatonic scale and its first shape.

Make sure you are familiar with the fingerings and note positions in this shape.

Step 2: Backing Track Setup

For this practice routine, we have prepared a backing track in G Major that is specifically tailored for playing the G Major Pentatonic scale.

You can find the provided backing track at the end of this lesson.

Download or stream it and ensure you can play along with it during your practice.

Step 3: Playing Over the Backing Track – Shape 1

Now, let’s play G Major Pentatonic Shape 1 over the provided backing track. Here’s how to approach it:

• Set up your metronome to establish a consistent tempo. Start at a comfortable

• Play the notes of Shape 1 smoothly and cleanly, paying close attention to your

• Experiment with different rhythms, dynamics, and phrasing to make your playing

• Create simple melodies or licks using the notes from Shape

Step 4: Applying the Routine to Other Shapes

After practicing Shape 1 over the backing track, it’s time to apply the same routine to the other shapes of the G Major Pentatonic scale.

Play each shape over the backing track, ensuring that you can smoothly transition between them.

This will enhance your ability to use the entire scale across the fretboard.

Step 5: Analyze Your Playing

After playing over the backing track, take some time to critically listen to your performance.

Pay attention to:

• Your timing – is it consistent with the backing track?

• Your tone – does it sound clear and pleasant?

• Musicality – did you experiment with different phrasing and dynamics?

Identify areas where you excel and where you might need improvement.

Homework:

1. Practice G Major Pentatonic Shape 1 thoroughly over the provided backing
2. Apply the same routine to the other shapes of the G Major Pentatonic
3. Experiment with various rhythms, dynamics, and
4. Reflect on your performance and identify areas for

This practice routine is designed to strengthen your connection with the G Major Pentatonic scale and enhance your ability to use it confidently in different musical contexts.

In Lesson 4, we will continue to build on this foundation and explore more patterns and sequences within the scale.

Keep practicing and enjoy the process of becoming a more versatile guitarist.

Lesson 4: Practice Routine – Switching Between G Major Pentatonic and C Major Pentatonic

In this practice routine, we will work on transitioning between the G Major Pentatonic and C Major Pentatonic scales in various positions on the guitar fretboard.

This exercise will help you expand your knowledge of both scales, improve your fretboard awareness, and enhance your ability to connect scales when playing.

Step 1: Review G Major and C Major Pentatonic Scales

Before we begin the switching exercise, let’s take a moment to review the G Major Pentatonic and C Major Pentatonic scales.

Ensure you are comfortable with the fingerings and note positions in both scales.

Step 2: Starting Position

We’ll start with G Major Pentatonic.

Choose a position on the fretboard (e.g., Shape 1) and play through the scale to establish the starting point for this exercise.

Step 3: Switching to C Major Pentatonic

Now, we’ll switch to the C Major Pentatonic scale.

Determine which position of C Major Pentatonic you’d like to switch to.

For example, if you were starting with G Major Pentatonic Shape 1, you might switch to C Major Pentatonic Shape 1 as well.

Play through the C Major Pentatonic scale in that position.

Step 4: Practice the Switch

The key to this exercise is the transition between the two scales.

Start with G Major Pentatonic and, when you’re ready, smoothly switch to C Major Pentatonic in the chosen position.

Use a metronome to maintain a steady tempo.

Step 5: Vary the Positions

Repeat the exercise by choosing different positions for G Major Pentatonic and C Major Pentatonic.

For example, you could start with G Major Pentatonic Shape 2 and switch to C Major Pentatonic Shape 3.

This variation will further enhance your scale knowledge and dexterity.

Step 6: Increase the Challenge

As you become more proficient with these scale transitions, you can increase the challenge by:

• Playing the scales in reverse order (starting with C Major and switching to G Major).

• Incorporating rhythmic variations and dynamics into your playing

• Experimenting with creating musical phrases that connect both scales

Homework:

1. Practice switching between G Major and C Major Pentatonic scales in different positions on the
2. Experiment with various positions and combinations to enhance your scale
3. Focus on making the transitions smooth and
4. Challenge yourself by incorporating dynamics and rhythmic variations into your

This practice routine will improve your ability to switch between scales and enhance your overall guitar skills.

In Lesson 5, we’ll continue building on this foundation, exploring more advanced patterns and sequences within these scales.

Keep practicing and enjoy the process of becoming a more versatile guitarist.

Lesson 5: Learning the Minor Pentatonic Scale

In this lesson, we will explore the versatile and widely used Minor Pentatonic scale.

We’ll learn the scale in five different positions (shapes) on the guitar fretboard and connect it to minor chords.

This knowledge will be invaluable for creating expressive solos and improvisations.

Step 1: Introduction to the Minor Pentatonic Scale

The Minor Pentatonic scale consists of five essential notes and is a staple in various musical genres, including blues, rock, and jazz.

The scale formula is: 1 – b3 – 4 – 5 – b7.

Step 2: Learning the Five Positions/Shapes

We will start by learning the Minor Pentatonic scale in five positions (shapes) on the guitar.

These positions will allow you to play the scale across the entire fretboard.

Practice each shape thoroughly until you can play it confidently.

Step 3: Connecting to Minor Chords

Now that you’ve learned the five shapes of the Minor Pentatonic scale, let’s connect it to minor chords.

Minor chords and the Minor Pentatonic scale are closely related, and understanding this connection will help you create melodic and expressive solos.

Minor Chords in Harmony:

Minor Pentatonic scales can be used over various minor chords, including basic minor triads (e.g., Am, Em, Dm), minor 7th chords (e.g., Am7, Em7, Dm7), and more.

Practical Application:

Practice playing the Minor Pentatonic scale over a minor chord progression, such as Am – Dm.

Experiment with creating melodies using the scale over these

Step 4: Practice and Application

To solidify your knowledge and improve your skills, practice the following:

• Play each of the five Minor Pentatonic scale

• Experiment with connecting the shapes to play the scale seamlessly across the

• Practice applying the Minor Pentatonic scale over minor chords, creating melodic phrases and

Homework:

1. Practice each of the five Minor Pentatonic scale
2. Create a chord progression using minor chords (e.g., Am – Dm – Em) and play the Minor Pentatonic scale over it.
3. Experiment with different rhythms, dynamics, and phrasing in your
4. Listen to songs that feature the Minor Pentatonic scale and try to identify its use in the

Understanding the Minor Pentatonic scale and its connection to minor chords is a powerful tool for any guitarist.

In Lesson 6, we’ll explore techniques for creating expressive and emotive solos using the Minor Pentatonic scale.

Keep practicing and enjoy the journey of becoming a more versatile guitarist.

Lesson 6: Practice Routine – Learning the G Minor Pentatonic Scale Everywhere with Backing Track Practice

In this lesson, we’ll work on mastering the G Minor Pentatonic scale across the entire fretboard.

We’ll use a provided backing track to practice this scale in different positions and improve your improvisational skills.

Step 1: Introduction to G Minor Pentatonic Scale

The G Minor Pentatonic scale is a fundamental scale that’s essential for playing blues, rock, and other genres.

It consists of the following intervals: 1 – b3 – 4 – 5 – b7. You’ll be amazed at the versatility of this scale once you’ve mastered it.

Step 2: Learning the G Minor Pentatonic Scale Everywhere

To learn the G Minor Pentatonic scale everywhere on the fretboard, we’ll start with the most common shape and then expand it to other positions.

Here’s how:

Shape 1 (Starting Position):

• Begin with the root note on the 3rd fret of the 6th (low E)

• Practice ascending and descending this shape until you’re

Expanding to Other Positions:

• Once you’ve mastered Shape 1, work on shifting it to different positions on the

• For example, you can move to Shape 1 starting on the 10th fret, 12th fret, and so Each position will open up new melodic possibilities.

Step 3: Backing Track Setup

To practice the G Minor Pentatonic scale in various positions, we have provided a backing track in G Minor.

You can find the backing track at the end of this lesson. Download or stream it to practice along.

Step 4: Playing Over the Backing Track

Now, let’s use the provided backing track to practice the G Minor Pentatonic scale in different positions. Follow these steps:

• Play the G Minor Pentatonic scale in Shape 1 over the backing

• After a few repetitions, shift to another position (e.g., the 10th fret) and play the scale from that

• Continue shifting positions as the backing track

Step 5: Experiment with Phrasing

As you play over the backing track, experiment with different rhythms, dynamics, and articulations.

Focus on creating expressive and melodic phrases using the G Minor Pentatonic scale.

Homework:

1. Practice the G Minor Pentatonic scale in different positions, shifting between them as you play along with the backing track.
2. Experiment with various rhythms and dynamics to make your playing more
3. Try to create your own melodic phrases and improvisations over the backing
4. Reflect on your performance and identify areas for

Learning the G Minor Pentatonic scale everywhere and practicing with the backing track will boost your improvisational skills and expand your fretboard knowledge.

In Lesson 7, we’ll delve into techniques for creating emotive and expressive solos using the G Minor Pentatonic scale.

Keep practicing and enjoy your journey to becoming a more versatile guitarist.

Lesson 7: Combining G Minor and C Minor Pentatonic Scales in All Shapes and Parts of the Fretboard

In this lesson, we’ll delve into the world of combining the G Minor Pentatonic and C Minor Pentatonic scales.

By working on these scales in all shapes and positions on the fretboard, you’ll expand your improvisational skills and be able to create dynamic and expressive solos.

Step 1: Review of G and C Minor Pentatonic Scales

Before diving into combining the scales, let’s revisit the G Minor Pentatonic and C Minor Pentatonic scales.

Ensure you’re comfortable with their fingerings and note positions in all shapes.

Step 2: Scale Combination Basics

We’ll start by combining the G Minor Pentatonic scale and the C Minor Pentatonic scale in their most common shape.

To do this:

• Begin with G Minor Pentatonic Shape

• Play the scale as usual, ascending and

Step 3: Transition to C Minor Pentatonic

Now, transition smoothly from G Minor Pentatonic to C Minor Pentatonic.

For instance, you can start with G Minor Pentatonic Shape 1 and then shift to C Minor Pentatonic Shape 1.

Ensure that the transition is seamless.

Step 4: Expanding to Other Shapes and Positions

After successfully combining the scales in the most common shape, expand your practice to other shapes and positions on the fretboard.

The goal is to connect G Minor Pentatonic and C Minor Pentatonic scales all over the fretboard.

• Start with G Minor Pentatonic Shape 2 and then transition to C Minor Pentatonic Shape

• Continue this process with Shapes 3, 4, and

Step 5: Practice with Backing Track

To incorporate these combined scales into a musical context, use a backing track in G or C minor.

This will allow you to apply your scale knowledge in a real-world setting.

• Play over the backing track using the combined Experiment with phrasing, dynamics, and articulations to create melodic and expressive solos.

Homework:

1. Practice combining G Minor Pentatonic and C Minor Pentatonic scales in all shapes and positions on the fretboard.
2. Use a backing track in G or C minor to practice your improvisation skills with the combined
3. Experiment with different rhythms, dynamics, and phrasing in your
4. Reflect on your performance and identify areas for

This lesson will significantly enhance your ability to create expressive and versatile solos by combining G Minor and C Minor Pentatonic scales.

Lesson 8: Learning the Five Shapes of the Dominant Arpeggio

In this lesson, we will explore the Dominant Arpeggio in the key of G.

By learning the five essential shapes of this arpeggio, you’ll gain a powerful tool for creating tension and resolution in your guitar playing.

Step 1: Introduction to the Dominant Arpeggio

The Dominant Arpeggio is a crucial element in creating harmonic tension in music.

It consists of the following intervals: 1 – 3 – 5 – b7. In the key of G, this arpeggio will be based on the G7 chord.

Step 2: Shape 1 – Starting Position

We’ll begin with the first shape of the Dominant Arpeggio in G.

In this shape, you will start with the root note on the low E string (3rd fret).

Practice playing the arpeggio ascending and descending in this position until you are comfortable.

Step 3: Expanding to Other Shapes

After mastering Shape 1, we will work on expanding to the other positions.

Each shape will begin with a different root note, allowing you to play the Dominant Arpeggio all over the fretboard.

Step 4: Practice and Familiarization

Dedicate time to practice and familiarize yourself with each shape.

You should be able to smoothly transition between shapes, ascending and descending, while maintaining proper fingerings.

Homework:

1. Practice all five shapes of the Dominant Arpeggio in
2. Work on shifting between shapes and positions with
3. Experiment with creating musical phrases and solos using the Dominant
4. Reflect on your performance and identify areas for

Mastering the five shapes of the Dominant Arpeggio in G will provide you with a valuable tool for creating tension and resolving chords in your playing.

In Lesson 9, we will delve into techniques for incorporating the Dominant Arpeggio into your musical compositions and improvisations.

Keep practicing and enjoy the journey of becoming a more versatile guitarist.

Lesson 9: Practice Routine to Familiarize with G Dominant Arpeggio Shapes

In this lesson, we will continue to work on the G Dominant Arpeggio shapes, but with a focus on getting familiar with the sounds they produce.

This practice routine will help you understand the tonal characteristics of the Dominant Arpeggio, allowing you to use it effectively in your music.

Step 1: Review of G Dominant Arpeggio Shapes

Before we start the practice routine, let’s quickly review the five shapes of the G Dominant Arpeggio.

Ensure you are comfortable with the fingerings and note positions in each shape.

Step 2: Shape Familiarization

To get familiar with the sound of the G Dominant Arpeggio, let’s work on each shape one by one.

Follow these steps for each shape:

Shape 1:

• Start with G Dominant Arpeggio Shape 1.

• Play the arpeggio slowly, paying close attention to the individual notes’ tonal qualities.

Shape 2:

• Move to Shape 2 and repeat the process.

• Listen to how the arpeggio’s sound changes with each note.•

Shape 3:

• Continue to Shape 3, playing it in isolation.

• Focus on the unique character of this shape’s tonal qualities.

Shape 4:

• Shift to Shape 4 and practice it individually.

• Pay attention to how it differs from the previous shapes.

Shape 5:

• Finally, work on Shape 5, playing it separately from the others.

• Notice the distinct tonal attributes of this shape.

Step 3: Combining Shapes

Now that you’ve spent time familiarizing yourself with the sound of each shape, it’s time to combine them.

Work on shifting between shapes smoothly while playing the G Dominant Arpeggio.

• Play Shape 1, then transition to Shape 2, 3, 4, and 5, ascending and descending.

• Experiment with different patterns and sequences that involve all five shapes.

Step 4: Experiment with Sound

As you practice, experiment with the sound of the Dominant Arpeggio.

Try different dynamics, articulations, and phrasings to understand how these factors influence the arpeggio’s character.

Step 5: Improvisation and Application

To solidify your understanding, apply the Dominant Arpeggio in your improvisations over backing tracks in the key of G or other suitable keys.

Listen to how it interacts with the chords and melodies.

Homework:

1. Practice each of the five G Dominant Arpeggio shapes separately, focusing on their unique tonal qualities.
2. Work on smooth transitions between shapes, ascending and descending.
3. Experiment with different dynamics, articulations, and phrasings to explore the arpeggio’s sound.
4. Apply the Dominant Arpeggio in your improvisations over backing tracks in various keys.

Familiarizing yourself with the sound of the G Dominant Arpeggio is a crucial step in using it effectively in your guitar playing.

Lesson 10: Applying the Dominant Arpeggio in a 12-Bar Blues

In this lesson, we will explore how to effectively apply the Dominant Arpeggio in a 12-bar blues progression in the key of G.

Using this arpeggio will allow you to create expressive and impactful solos in a blues context.

Step 1: Introduction to the 12-Bar Blues in G

Before we start applying the Dominant Arpeggio, let’s briefly review the structure of a 12-bar blues progression in the key of G.

The basic chord progression typically includes the G7, C7, and D7 chords.

Step 2: Dominant Arpeggio on G7

We will start by focusing on the G7 chord in the 12-bar blues progression.

The Dominant Arpeggio for G7 consists of the following intervals: 1 – 3 – 5 – b7.

Familiarize yourself with this arpeggio shape.

Step 3: Applying the Dominant Arpeggio

Now, let’s apply the G Dominant Arpeggio to the 12-bar blues in G.

Here’s a simple approach:

Bars 1-4: G7 Chord (Bar 1)

• Over the G7 chord, play the G Dominant Arpeggio in various positions and patterns. Experiment with ascending and descending runs, and use phrasing and dynamics to create melodic

Bars 5-6: C7 Chord (Bars 2 and 3)

• Transition to the C7 chord. For the C7, you can either use the C Dominant Arpeggio or the G Dominant Arpeggio (which includes the C7 arpeggio notes). Play the arpeggio in different shapes and patterns.

Bars 7-8: G7 Chord (Bars 4 and 5)

• Return to the G7 chord. Use the G Dominant Arpeggio to create expressive

Bars 9-10: D7 Chord (Bars 6 and 7)

• Over the D7 chord, you can use the D Dominant Arpeggio or the G Dominant Arpeggio (which includes the D7 arpeggio notes). Experiment with different positions and patterns.

Bars 11-12: G7 Chord (Bars 8 and 9)

• Conclude the progression with the G7 Utilize the G Dominant Arpeggio for the final bars to add a melodic touch.

Step 4: Experimentation and Phrasing

As you apply the Dominant Arpeggio in the 12-bar blues, experiment with various phrasing techniques, such as bends, slides, and vibrato. Use dynamics to add emotion to your playing.

Step 5: Improvisation and Creativity

Once you’re comfortable with the basic application, take the opportunity to improvise.

Create your own solos within the 12-bar blues structure, using the Dominant Arpeggio as a foundation.

Listen to how it complements the chords and adds tension and release.

Homework:

1. Practice applying the Dominant Arpeggio over a 12-bar blues progression in
2. Experiment with different arpeggio positions, patterns, and phrasing
3. Record your improvisations and analyze your playing, identifying areas for
4. Listen to classic blues recordings and analyze how guitarists use arpeggios in their

By applying the Dominant Arpeggio in a 12-bar blues context, you’ll enhance your ability to create expressive and impactful solos.

Keep practicing and refining your skills, and enjoy the journey of becoming a more versatile blues guitarist.

Lesson 11: Learning the Half Diminished Arpeggio in G in 5 Shapes and Relating to Chord Shapes

In this lesson, we will explore the Half Diminished Arpeggio in the key of G.

You’ll learn the arpeggio in five different shapes and understand its relation to chord shapes.

This knowledge will enable you to create rich and expressive solos in a jazz or fusion context.

Step 1: Introduction to the Half-Diminished Arpeggio

The Half Diminished Arpeggio, also known as the Minor 7th flat 5 arpeggio, consists of the following intervals: 1 – b3 – b5 – b7. In the key of G, it is associated with the Gm7b5 or G half-diminished chord.

Step 2: Learning the Five Shapes

We will begin by learning the Half Diminished Arpeggio in five different shapes on the guitar.

Each shape will start from a different root note, giving you versatility on the fretboard.

Step 3: Relating to Chord Shapes

To understand the practical application of the Half Diminished Arpeggio, it’s important to relate it to chord shapes.

In the context of a Gm7b5 chord:

Step 4: Practice and Familiarization

Spend time practicing and familiarizing yourself with each shape.

Ensure that you can smoothly transition between them, both ascending and descending.

Homework:

1. Practice each of the five Half Diminished Arpeggio shapes, focusing on their fingerings and note
2. Work on shifting between shapes with ease, maintaining proper
3. Experiment with connecting the arpeggio shapes to related chord
4. Create melodic phrases and solos using the Half Diminished Arpeggio in different

Understanding the Half Diminished Arpeggio and its relationship to chord shapes will allow you to add depth and complexity to your guitar playing, particularly in jazz and fusion contexts.

In Lesson 12, we’ll explore techniques for creating expressive and melodic solos using the Half Diminished Arpeggio.

Keep practicing and enjoy your journey to becoming a more versatile guitarist.

Lesson 12: Practicing the Half Diminished Arpeggio Shapes One at a Time and Combining Them with a Metronome

In this lesson, we’ll dive deeper into the Half Diminished Arpeggio in the key of G.

You’ll practice each of the five shapes separately and then combine them for a more comprehensive understanding and fluency in your playing, all while utilizing a metronome to enhance your timing and precision.

Step 1: Introduction

Before we begin practicing, let’s review the Half Diminished Arpeggio and its five shapes.

Recall that the Half Diminished Arpeggio consists of the intervals 1 – b3 – b5 – b7 and is associated with the Gm7b5 chord.

Step 2: Shape-by-Shape Practice

We will start by practicing each of the five Half Diminished Arpeggio shapes individually.

This step is crucial for developing finger dexterity and memorization.

Step 3: Combining the Shapes

Now that you’ve practiced each shape separately, it’s time to combine them for a more holistic approach to the Half Diminished Arpeggio.

• Start by playing Shape 1, then transition to Shape 2, then Shape 3, and so on, in a continuous sequence.

• Use your metronome to ensure you maintain a consistent tempo.

Step 4: Metronome Practice

Set your metronome to a moderate tempo that challenges you but allows for accuracy.

• Begin with the sequence of shapes you practiced in Step 3, focusing on maintaining a steady rhythm and timing.

• Gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable with the sequence.

• Practice ascending and descending the sequence of shapes using the metronome as a guide.

Homework:

1. Practice each of the five Half Diminished Arpeggio shapes separately, focusing on precision and accuracy.
2. Combine the shapes in a sequence, maintaining a steady tempo with the metronome.
3. Gradually increase the tempo as you become more proficient.
4. Record your practice sessions to monitor your progress.

By practicing the Half Diminished Arpeggio shapes one at a time and then combining them with the metronome, you’ll develop both technical proficiency and timing accuracy.

In Lesson 13, we’ll explore techniques for creating expressive and melodically rich solos using the Half Diminished Arpeggio.

Keep practicing and enjoy your journey to becoming a more versatile guitarist.

Lesson 13: Combining Two Half Diminished Arpeggios

In this lesson, we will take your understanding of the Half Diminished Arpeggio to the next level by combining two different shapes.

Step 1: Review of the Half Diminished Arpeggio Shapes

Before we delve into combining arpeggio shapes, let’s briefly review the five shapes of the Half Diminished Arpeggio that you learned in the previous lesson.

Step 2: Select Two Shapes to Combine

To begin, select two different shapes of the Half Diminished Arpeggio that you would like to combine.

Choose shapes that are not adjacent to each other to create an interesting transition.

Step 3: Practice Combining the Shapes Step 4: Metronome Practice

Set your metronome to a moderate tempo.

• Practice the transition between the two selected shapes, focusing on maintaining a steady tempo and clean execution.

• Gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable with the combination.

Step 5: Creativity and Exploration

Once you feel confident with the combination of the two shapes, it’s time to explore how they can be used melodically.

• Experiment with phrasing, dynamics, and articulations to create expressive and melodically rich solos using the combined shapes.

• Incorporate the combined shapes into backing tracks or chord progressions to understand their musical application.

Homework:

1. Practice the combination of the two selected Half Diminished Arpeggio shapes, maintaining a steady tempo with the metronome.
2. Experiment with different phrasing techniques, dynamics, and articulations in your solos.
3. Apply the combined shapes in the context of backing tracks or chord progressions to see how they interact with the music.
4. Continue recording and analyzing your practice sessions to track your progress.

By combining two Half Diminished Arpeggio shapes, you’ll open up new possibilities for creating intricate and expressive solos.

Lesson 14: Putting It All Together with the II-V-I Jazz Progression

In this lesson, we will apply the scales and arpeggios you’ve learned to one of the most common jazz progressions, the II half diminished – V dominant – I minor (Dm7b5 – G7 – Cm).

This will allow you to create expressive and melodically rich solos using the D half diminished, G dominant, and C minor chords, along with the Half Diminished Arpeggio, Dominant Arpeggio, and C Minor Pentatonic scale.

Step 1: Introduction to the II-V-I Progression

The II-V-I progression is a fundamental sequence in jazz that provides ample opportunities for improvisation.

In the key of C, the progression consists of Dm7b5 (II), G7 (V), and Cm (I).

Step 2: Application of Scales and Arpeggios

We will use the following elements for our improvisation:

• D Half Diminished Arpeggio for the Dm7b5 chord.

• G Dominant Arpeggio for the G7 chord.

• C Minor Pentatonic scale for the Cm chord.

Step 3: Applying the Arpeggios and Scale

• Over the Dm7b5 (II) chord, use the D Half Diminished Arpeggio. Experiment with ascending and descending runs, using phrasing and dynamics to create melodically rich phrases.

• When transitioning to the G7 (V) chord, switch to the G Dominant Arpeggio. Utilize different shapes and patterns to create expressive and tension-building phrases.

• As you arrive at the Cm (I) chord, apply the C Minor Pentatonic scale. Use it to create emotive and melodic solos over the final chord of the progression.

Step 4: Backing Track Practice

We have provided a backing track for you to practice the II-V-I progression. You can find the backing track at the end of this lesson. Download or stream it to practice along.

Step 5: Improvisation and Creativity

Now that you have the tools at your disposal, it’s time to apply them creatively.

Use the backing track to experiment with your improvisation over the II-V-I progression.

• Create your own solos, combining the arpeggios and scale as the chords change.

• Experiment with different rhythms, dynamics, and articulations to add expressiveness to your playing.

• Focus on creating melodically rich phrases that tell a musical story.

Homework:

1. Practice improvising over the II-V-I progression using the D Half Diminished Arpeggio, G Dominant Arpeggio, and C Minor Pentatonic scale.
2. Experiment with different phrasing techniques, dynamics, and articulations to enhance your solos.
3. Record your improvisations over the provided backing track and analyze your performance.
4. Listen to classic jazz recordings and study how other musicians approach improvisation over II-V- I progressions.

Applying the scales and arpeggios you’ve learned to the II-V-I jazz progression will greatly enhance your ability to create expressive and melodic solos in a jazz context.

Keep practicing, listening to jazz music, and enjoy the journey of becoming a more versatile guitarist.

Lesson 15: Final words and Next Steps

In this course, you’ve covered essential scales and arpeggios, including the Pentatonic Major and Minor scales, Dominant Arpeggios, and Half Diminished Arpeggios.

You’ve learned to apply them in various musical contexts.

Next Steps:

1. Continue practicing the scales and arpeggios to build fluency.
2. Explore advanced techniques like scale extensions and chromatic approaches.
3. Analyze and learn from professional players in your preferred genre.
4. Collaborate with other musicians to refine your skills.

Keep enjoying your musical journey and continue to expand your repertoire of skills and knowledge.

Backing Tracks

Backing Track 1 (G)

Backing Track 2 (G & C)

Backing Track 3 – Jazz Progression (II V I)

Bonus Reports

Click To Download Your Copy

Click To Download Your Copy