How to Play the Arezzo Major Diatonic Hexachord Scale on the Guitar

The Arezzo Major Diatonic Hexachord scale is very similar to the traditional major scale of western music. A hexachord refers to a group of six notes. The only major difference between the Arezzo Major Diatonic Hexachord scale and the traditional major scale is the Arezzo's lack of the seventh scale degree. This omission creates a very different and interesting sound.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Begin the scale by placing your fourth finger (pinky) on the fifth fret of the sixth string. This is the root note of the Arezzo Major Diatonic Hexachord scale.

2. Next, use your first finger (forefinger) to play the second fret of the fifth string. This is a B. B is the second degree of the scale.

3. Place your third (ring) finger on the fourth fret of the fifth string. This is a C sharp, the third degree of the Arezzo Major Diatonic Hexachord scale.

4. Place your fourth finger on the fifth fret of the fifth string. This is D. D is the fourth degree of the scale.

5. Use your first finger to play the second fret of the fourth string. This is the note E. E is the fifth degree of the scale.

6. Play the fourth fret of the fourth string with your third finger. This is an F sharp, the sixth degree of the Arezzo Major Diatonic Hexachord scale.

7. Play the second fret of the third string with your first finger. This is the note A, played one octave higher than the root note you played in step one.

8. Play steps seven through one in reverse order to return to the root note and complete the scale.

Tips & Warnings

• It is a good idea to always practice your scales with a metronome. This will enhance your rhythm and give you an edge over other players.