How to Play the Whole Tone Scale for Guitar
The whole-tone scale is an important element of any guitarist's harmonic palette. Its unique sound can add new color to any guitarist's solo or melody line.
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Instructions
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1
Place the left-hand middle finger on the third fret of the fifth string. Pluck the note with a pick or right-hand finger.
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2
Place the left-hand pinky finger on the fifth fret of the fifth string. Play the string.
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3
Place the left-hand index finger on the second fret of the fourth string. Play the note.
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4
Place the left-hand middle finger on the fourth fret of the fourth string. Pluck the string.
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5
Place the left-hand pinky finger on the sixth fret of the fourth string. Play the note.
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6
Place the left-hand middle finger on the third fret of the third string. Pluck the note.
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7
Place the left-hand pinky finger on the fifth fret of the third string. Play the string.
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8
Play all seven notes in a row to produce the C whole-tone scale.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Practice playing the whole-tone scale in different keys across the fifth string. The first note of the scale is the root, which indicates the key. For example, playing this scale on the fifth fret produces the D whole-tone scale.
Using the given fingering will make playing the stretches in the whole-tone scale easier on your left hand.
Resources
- Photo Credit www.stockvault.net
