How to Put Guitar Scales Together

Putting guitar scales together can feel like assembling a musical puzzle. You’ve got the pieces, but how do you make them fit? In this guide, we’ll break down the art of connecting scales, helping you create those seamless transitions and mind-blowing solos you’ve always dreamed of. Ready to spice up your playing and gain some new tricks for your guitar arsenal? Let’s get into it.

Why Connecting Scales Matters

When you play metal guitar, shredding through scales isn’t just about speed or technical prowess. It’s about creating music that feels cohesive, dynamic, and expressive. Think of your favorite solos. They’re not just a series of fast notes but a fluid journey through different emotions and tonal landscapes. Connecting scales effectively allows you to tell a story with your playing, keeping the listener engaged and on the edge of their seat.

So, how does this apply to metal? Metal guitarists often use a variety of scales to add color and tension to their music. From the dark, sinister Phrygian mode to the punchy, aggressive pentatonic scale, the ability to switch between these effortlessly can elevate your playing from good to legendary. Interestingly enough, it also opens up a world of improvisation, letting you adapt and respond to the music spontaneously.

Understanding Scale Basics

Before we jump into connecting scales, let's make sure we've got the basics down. A scale is simply a series of notes ordered by pitch. In Western music, scales are usually made up of seven notes, like the major or minor scales. Each scale has its own unique sound and mood, which is determined by the intervals between the notes.

For example, the minor scale has a sad or melancholic sound, often used in metal for its emotional intensity. On the other hand, the major scale sounds happy and uplifting, though it might not be as common in metal, it still has its place.

Knowing the basic structure of scales is crucial when you start connecting them. You need to understand the intervals and how each note relates to the others. This knowledge will help you predict how scales will sound when played together, ensuring that your transitions are smooth.

The Art of Modes

Modes are variations of scales that start on different notes. In metal, modes are like spices in cooking—they add flavor and variety to your music. The seven modes of the major scale are Ionian, Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian, Aeolian, and Locrian.

Each mode has its own distinct sound. For instance:

• Ionian: This is your typical major scale, bright and happy.
• Dorian: A minor scale with a raised sixth, giving it a jazzy, bluesy feel.
• Phrygian: A favorite in metal for its dark, Spanish flavor.
• Lydian: Dreamy and ethereal, thanks to a raised fourth.
• Mixolydian: Major with a flat seventh, bringing a rock or blues vibe.
• Aeolian: Your natural minor scale, perfect for moody, emotional pieces.
• Locrian: Dissonant and tense, often used for its unsettling sound.

By understanding modes, you can transition smoothly between different tonalities and express a wide range of emotions. For example, moving from Dorian to Phrygian can shift the mood from reflective to intense, which can be incredibly effective in a solo or improvised section.

Using the Pentatonic Scale

The pentatonic scale is a five-note scale that’s incredibly versatile and easy to play. It’s often the first scale guitarists learn, thanks to its simple, user-friendly pattern. Despite its simplicity, the pentatonic scale is a powerhouse in metal music.

Why? Because it works. The pentatonic scale has no semitones, which means it avoids the dissonance that can occur when transitioning between certain notes. This makes it a safe, go-to choice for soloing and improvisation.

In metal, the minor pentatonic scale is king. It’s punchy and aggressive, perfect for those high-energy solos. By connecting the pentatonic scale with other scales, like the blues scale or the Aeolian mode, you can add depth and complexity to your playing.

Here's a simple way to start connecting scales with the pentatonic scale:

• Start with a minor pentatonic pattern.
• Add notes from the blues scale to create tension and release.
• Use notes from the natural minor scale to add emotional impact.

The Role of the Chromatic Scale

The chromatic scale consists of all twelve notes in an octave. It’s the scale that includes every possible note, which might sound chaotic at first. But in metal, chaos can be your ally. The chromatic scale is used for building tension and excitement.

Integrating chromatic notes into your playing can add a sense of unpredictability and intensity. Think of chromatic notes as the spice that adds heat to a dish—use them sparingly to create a powerful effect.

For example, if you're playing a minor scale, you can add chromatic notes between the second and third or the fifth and sixth degrees to create a sense of movement. This technique can be particularly effective in solos, where a sudden flurry of chromatic notes can surprise the listener and keep them engaged.

How Riffhard Can Help You Connect Scales

At Riffhard, we understand that connecting scales is a crucial part of developing your metal guitar skills. Our lessons, taught by world-renowned guitarists, focus not just on teaching you scales but on how to integrate them into your playing.

With our interactive player and custom metronome, you can practice scale connections at your own pace, adjusting the tempo to suit your learning style. Plus, with downloadable tabs and Guitar Pro files, you have everything you need to master this skill.

Whether you're looking to learn from legends like Zakk Wylde or explore modern techniques with instructors like Javier Reyes, Riffhard offers a wealth of resources to enhance your playing.

Developing Your Own Style

Once you've got the hang of connecting scales, it's time to develop your own style. This is where the magic happens. Take the techniques you've learned and start experimenting. Try different combinations of scales and modes, and see what sounds you can create.

Don't be afraid to break the rules. Some of the most iconic solos in metal history came from guitarists who weren't afraid to push boundaries. Experiment with different rhythms, dynamics, and articulations to find your unique voice.

Remember, playing guitar is about expressing yourself. Let your personality shine through your music, and don't be afraid to take risks. The more you experiment, the more you'll discover what works for you.

Playing with Confidence

Confidence is key when it comes to playing guitar. If you're unsure about your transitions or hesitant in your playing, it will show. Believe in your abilities and trust the skills you've developed.

One way to build confidence is to practice regularly and challenge yourself with new material. Use backing tracks to simulate playing with a band, and record yourself to track your progress. As you become more comfortable with connecting scales, your confidence will naturally grow.

Remember, even the greatest guitarists started as beginners. With time, dedication, and practice, you'll find your groove and play with the confidence of a pro.

Final Thoughts

Connecting guitar scales is an essential skill for any metal guitarist. It opens up a world of creativity and expression, allowing you to craft solos that are both technically impressive and emotionally engaging. At Riffhard, we provide the tools and lessons to help you develop this skill, all taught by some of the best in the business. So, grab your guitar and start exploring the endless possibilities of connecting scales.