How to Play the B Minor Harmonic Scale on the Guitar

When it comes to playing guitar, few things are as satisfying as mastering a new scale. The B Minor Harmonic scale is one that can add a spicy, exotic flavor to your solos and riffs. Whether you're into metal, classical, or anything in between, this scale is a powerful tool in your musical arsenal. Let's explore how you can play this scale on the guitar and incorporate it into your playing.

What Makes the B Minor Harmonic Scale Unique?

The B Minor Harmonic scale is not your run-of-the-mill scale. It's got a unique quality thanks to its raised seventh note, which creates a sound that's both exotic and tense. This scale is often used in metal and classical music to produce an intense, dramatic feel. It's like the musical equivalent of adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to your dish — it just makes everything pop.

So, what does this scale look like? In terms of intervals, the B Minor Harmonic scale is constructed as follows:

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

Notice the A#? That's where the magic happens. This raised seventh is what gives the scale its distinct harmonic minor sound. It's a small change, but it makes a world of difference.

Position One: The Basic Fingering

Let's start by getting our fingers around the first position of the B Minor Harmonic scale. This is your foundational shape, and it's important to get comfortable with it before moving on to more advanced positions. Here's how to play it:

e|-----------------------------6--7--|
B|-----------------------7--9--------|
G|-------------------7---------------|
D|-------------8--9------------------|
A|-------9--10-----------------------|
E|--7--9-----------------------------|

Start slow, and ensure each note rings out clearly. As you get comfortable, gradually increase the speed. This position is great for practicing alternate picking, so focus on keeping your right hand relaxed and your pick strokes consistent.

Position Two: Moving Up the Neck

Once you're feeling good about the first position, it's time to move up the neck. This second position offers a different tonal quality and provides a smooth transition into higher fretwork. Here's what it looks like:

e|--------------------9--10--12--|
B|---------------10-------------|
G|---------9--11----------------|
D|------11----------------------|
A|--12--------------------------|
E|------------------------------|

This position starts on the ninth fret of the D string. It's a great way to explore the scale's higher notes and start incorporating them into your solos. As always, keep your fingers relaxed and try to minimize any unnecessary movement.

Using the Scale in Riffs and Solos

The B Minor Harmonic scale shines in both riffs and solos. Its unique sound can add depth and complexity to your compositions. Try this: create a simple riff using the scale's notes, focusing on the tension and release that the raised seventh provides. Here's a quick example to get you started:

e|------------------|
B|------------------|
G|------------------|
D|--9-8---9-11-9----|
A|------10------10--|
E|------------------|

This riff uses the scale's intervals to create a sense of movement and anticipation. Experiment with different rhythms and see how they change the feel of the riff.

Adding Spice with Arpeggios

Arpeggios are a fantastic way to incorporate the B Minor Harmonic scale into your playing. These broken chords can make your solos more melodic and expressive. Here's a simple B Minor Harmonic arpeggio to practice:

e|----------------------|
B|-----------------7----|
G|-------------8--------|
D|--------9-------------|
A|---10-----------------|
E|----------------------|

Practice this arpeggio slowly at first, ensuring each note rings out clearly. Once you've got the hang of it, start adding it to your solos for a dramatic flair.

Connecting the Positions

Connecting different scale positions allows you to move fluidly across the fretboard, which is crucial for seamless solos. Practice transitioning between the first and second positions of the B Minor Harmonic scale. Here's a simple exercise to help you get started:

e|------------------------------------------------12--10--9--|
B|--------------------------------10--9--7-------------------|
G|-----------------------9--8--7-----------------------------|
D|-------------8--9--11--------------------------------------|
A|-------9--10-----------------------------------------------|
E|--7--9-----------------------------------------------------|

By linking these positions, you create a pathway that allows for creative expression up and down the neck. This exercise will also help you develop muscle memory, making it easier to improvise in the scale.

Incorporating Bends and Vibrato

Bending and vibrato are two techniques that can bring your playing to life. When applied to the B Minor Harmonic scale, they can add emotion and intensity to your solos. Here are some tips for using these techniques effectively:

• Bends: Aim for a smooth, controlled motion. Try bending the A# up to B for that extra tension.
• Vibrato: Use your wrist to create a natural, even vibrato. Try it on the G or A# for a soulful expression.

Both techniques are about control and feel, so take your time to get them right. Remember, it's not just about hitting the right notes — it's about how you play them.

Exploring Rhythmic Variations

Rhythm is an integral part of any musical piece. By experimenting with different rhythmic patterns, you can give the B Minor Harmonic scale a fresh twist. Try playing the scale using triplets or sixteenth notes to see how it changes the vibe. Here's a quick exercise to try:

e|-------------------------------------|
B|-------------------------------------|
G|-----------------7-------------------|
D|---------8--9-------9--8-------------|
A|-----9--------10---------10--9-------|
E|--7------------------------------9-7-|

By altering the rhythm, you can maintain interest and keep your audience engaged. This is especially useful when you're performing or recording, as it adds dynamism to your sound.

Practicing with a Metronome

To truly nail the B Minor Harmonic scale, practice it with a metronome — or even better, with our custom metronome at Riffhard. This helps you develop a sense of timing and accuracy. Start slow and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable. Here's a simple routine to follow:

• Set the metronome to a slow tempo (around 60 bpm).
• Play through the scale, focusing on accuracy and clarity.
• Gradually increase the tempo in increments of 5 bpm.
• Challenge yourself to play at faster tempos as you improve.

Consistency is key, so try to incorporate this practice into your daily routine. Over time, you'll notice significant improvements in your playing.

Integrating the Scale into Songwriting

The B Minor Harmonic scale isn't just for solos — it's a powerful tool for songwriting too. Use it to create chord progressions or melodies that stand out. Here's a simple progression to get your creative juices flowing:

• Bm - G - F# - A#dim

This progression uses the scale's unique intervals to create a sense of tension and resolution. Experiment with different combinations and see what you come up with. The possibilities are endless!

And if you're looking for even more inspiration, Riffhard offers lessons from some of the world's top metal guitarists. They can show you how to incorporate scales like this into your songwriting, helping you create powerful, memorable music.

Final Thoughts

Playing the B Minor Harmonic scale on guitar opens up a world of musical possibilities. Whether you're crafting riffs, solos, or entire compositions, this scale adds a unique flavor to your sound. And if you're looking to take your playing to the next level, we at Riffhard offer lessons from the best modern metal guitarists, helping you to hone your skills and explore new techniques with ease.