How to Play a Kokinjoshi Scale on Guitar

The Kokinjoshi scale is an exotic scale that can add a twist to your guitar playing. Its flat second degree adds a very unusual flavor to this scale. In this article you will learn how to construct and play a Kokinjoshi scale of your own on the guitar.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Guitar

1. Play the fifth fret of the sixth string (low E string), using your forefinger. This is the root note of the scale.

2. Play the sixth fret of the sixth string with your middle finger. This is the note B-flat, the second degree of the Kokinjoshi scale. This note is what creates the exotic sound of this scale.

3. Play the fifth fret of the fifth string (A string), using your forefinger. This is the note D, the third degree of the Kokinjoshi scale.

4. Hold down the seventh fret of the fifth string with your ring finger. This is the note E, the fourth degree of the Kokinjoshi scale.

5. Play the fifth fret of the fourth string (D string), using your forefinger. This is the note G, the fifth degree of the Kokinjoshi scale.

6. Hold down the seventh fret of the fourth string with your ring finger. This is the note A, the final degree of the Kokinjoshi scale. This note is one octave higher than the root note you played in Step 1.

7. Play the scale in reverse. Play Steps 6 through 1 in reverse order to complete the scale. That's it. You now know how to play a Kokinjoshi scale on the guitar!

Tips & Warnings

• Try utilizing this scale in your solos to add a unique element to your guitar playing.