How to Play an F Sharp Overtone dominant Scale on Guitar

The F sharp overtone dominant scale is based on the natural overtones that occur in nature when a note is sounded. Although it sounds complex at first, the overtone scale is basically just a dominant seventh scale with a sharp fourth degree. Read on to learn how to construct and play an F sharp dominant scale on the guitar.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Guitar

1. Play the second fret of the sixth string (low E string) with your middle finger. This is the note F sharp, the first degree of the F sharp overtone dominant scale.

2. Using your pinkie, hold down the fourth fret of the sixth string and play the note. This is the note G sharp, the second degree of the F sharp overtone dominant scale.

3. Use your forefinger to play the first fret of the fifth string (A string). This is the note A sharp, the third degree of the F sharp overtone dominant scale.

4. Play the third fret of the fifth string with your ring finger. This is the note B sharp, the fourth degree of the F sharp overtone dominant scale. This is the note which defines the overall distinctive sound of the scale.

5. Using your pinkie, hold down the fourth fret of the fifth string. This is the note C sharp, the fifth degree of the F sharp overtone dominant scale.

6. Use your forefinger to play the first fret of the fourth string (D string). This is the note D sharp, the sixth degree of the F sharp overtone dominant scale.

7. Play the second fret of the fourth string with your middle finger. This is the note E sharp, the seventh degree of the F sharp overtone dominant scale.

8. Using your pinkie, hold down the fourth fret of the fourth string. This is the note F sharp, the eighth and final degree of the F sharp overtone dominant scale.

9. Play the scale in reverse. To complete the scale, play backwards from Step 8 to Step 1.

Tips & Warnings

• This scale will help you create some very unusual harmonies. Try making chords out of the notes of the scale. It is a fantastic ear training exercise!