How to Play the B Major Harmonic Scale on the Guitar

Ever tried playing a B Major harmonic scale on the guitar and felt like you needed a map to find your way? You’re not alone. It’s one of those scales that can feel elusive, but once you get the hang of it, it opens up a whole new world of musical possibilities. This guide will take you through the B Major harmonic scale, breaking it down so you can play it confidently and incorporate it into your music.

Why the B Major Harmonic Scale?

The B Major harmonic scale has a distinct sound that’s both mysterious and compelling. It’s not as commonly used as its natural major counterpart, which makes it a great tool for adding unique flavors to your music. The harmonic major scale is often associated with classical and jazz music, but it’s also a powerful tool in the metal genres. Its exotic sound can add an unexpected twist to your riffs and solos, helping your music stand out.

In metal music, where the usual suspects like the natural major and minor scales dominate, throwing in a harmonic major scale can surprise your listeners. It’s like adding a hint of spice to your favorite dish. The B Major harmonic scale is particularly interesting because of its characteristic raised seventh note, which gives it a unique sound that can add tension and release in your compositions.

Getting to Know the Notes

Before we start playing, it’s important to know what notes make up the B Major harmonic scale. The scale consists of the following notes: B, C#, D#, E, F#, G, A#. Notice that the A# (the seventh degree) is raised compared to a natural B Major scale (which would have an A instead of A#). This raised seventh is what gives the harmonic scale its distinctive sound.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the scale degrees:

• B: Root
• C#: Major second
• D#: Major third
• E: Perfect fourth
• F#: Perfect fifth
• G: Minor sixth
• A#: Major seventh

With these notes in mind, you’re starting to build the foundation for playing the scale on your guitar.

Fretting the Scale on the Guitar

Playing the B Major harmonic scale on the guitar can be a bit tricky at first, but breaking it down into manageable sections can make it easier. Let’s look at a basic pattern that you can use to play the scale across the fretboard.

Here’s a simple fingering pattern to get you started:

e|------------------6--7--9--|
B|---------------7----------|
G|--------6--8--------------|
D|----8---------------------|
A|-9------------------------|
E|--------------------------|

This pattern covers two octaves, giving you a good range to play with. Start slowly, focusing on clean and precise fretting for each note. As you become more comfortable, you can start to increase your speed.

Practicing with Purpose

Practice is where the magic happens, and practicing with intent is key to mastering the B Major harmonic scale. Start by playing the scale slowly, making sure each note rings out clearly. Use alternate picking to keep your picking hand consistent and efficient.

Once you’re comfortable with the basic pattern, try playing the scale in different positions on the neck. This will not only improve your familiarity with the fretboard but also give you more creative options when incorporating the scale into your music. Remember, practice makes progress, not perfection. So keep at it, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes—they’re part of the learning process.

If you’re looking for structured lessons and exercises to help you practice, our Riffhard platform offers a wealth of resources from some of the best metal guitarists in the world. Whether you’re into metalcore or progressive metal, we’ve got something for you.

Incorporating the Scale into Your Playing

Once you’ve got the scale under your fingers, it’s time to start using it. One way to incorporate the B Major harmonic scale into your playing is by using it in solos. Its unique sound can add an exotic twist to your lead lines, making them more interesting and engaging.

Try using the scale to create tension in your solos by emphasizing the raised seventh (A#) before resolving to the root (B). This creates a sense of movement and resolution that can make your solos more dynamic.

Another way to use the scale is in your riffs. You can create interesting riffs by moving between the notes of the scale, using palm muting and alternate picking to add aggression and drive to your sound. Experiment with different rhythms and note combinations to find patterns that resonate with you.

Exploring Different Genres

While the B Major harmonic scale is often associated with classical and jazz music, it’s a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of genres, including metal. In metal, the scale’s exotic sound can add a unique twist to your compositions, helping your music stand out.

Try using the scale in different metal subgenres like black metal or progressive metal. Each genre has its own characteristics, and experimenting with the B Major harmonic scale can help you discover new sounds and ideas that align with your musical style.

If you’re looking for inspiration, our lessons at Riffhard feature some of the world’s best metal guitarists who share their insights and techniques for incorporating scales like the B Major harmonic scale into their music. These lessons can provide valuable guidance as you explore new musical territories.

Creating Your Own Licks

One of the best ways to internalize the B Major harmonic scale is by creating your own licks. This not only helps you remember the scale but also allows you to express your own musical ideas.

Start by taking a small section of the scale and experimenting with different rhythms and techniques. You might try using slides, bends, or vibrato to add expression to your licks. Don’t be afraid to get creative—sometimes the best ideas come from experimenting and trying new things.

As you develop your licks, think about how they fit into the context of your music. Are you using them in a solo? A riff? Knowing the context can help you shape your licks to better suit your musical goals.

Jamming with the Scale

Jamming is a fantastic way to get comfortable with the B Major harmonic scale. Find a backing track in B Major (or create your own) and start playing along. Use the scale to create melodies and riffs, experimenting with different note combinations and rhythms.

Jamming allows you to explore the scale in a more spontaneous way, helping you develop your improvisational skills. It’s a great way to apply what you’ve learned in a musical context, and it’s also a lot of fun!

If you need some inspiration, check out the interactive lessons on Riffhard. We have lessons that cover a wide range of styles and techniques, giving you plenty of material to work with as you jam along.

Breaking out of Boxes

It’s easy to get stuck in box patterns when playing scales, but breaking out of these boxes can open up new possibilities for your playing. Once you’re comfortable with the B Major harmonic scale in one position, try connecting it with other positions across the fretboard.

One way to do this is by using slides or position shifts to move between different scale positions. This can help you create more fluid and dynamic lines, adding depth and interest to your music.

Remember, the guitar is a versatile instrument, and there are many ways to approach playing the B Major harmonic scale. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you.

Final Thoughts

The B Major harmonic scale is a powerful tool for any guitarist looking to add a unique twist to their music. Whether you’re using it in solos, riffs, or compositions, this scale can help you explore new sounds and ideas. If you’re looking for more guidance, our lessons at Riffhard offer insights from some of the best metal guitarists in the world, providing you with the resources you need to take your playing to the next level.