Guitar Nine Focus: Scales

Whether composing, improvising, or simply practicing technique, the importance of scales cannot be underestimated. Scales are organized sequences of notes played in an ascending or descending order that can help players build finger strength and dexterity, as well as help the improvisor/composer to establish moods and tell a story. Within any linear sequence of notes, you'll typically hear musical tension and resolution. While many guitarists begin their training with the 5-note Pentatonic scale, there is much to learn and absorb with the variety of scales that can be applied in creative ways over a myriad of chord progressions.

Here are dozens of articles by our columnists that have appeared over the years on the subject of scales, scale patterns, scale connection and more.

Greg Rapaport
Greg Rapaport

Some of Greg`s personal uses and insights into this somewhat eclectic scale.

Mike O'Malley
Mike O'Malley

How to get a better handle on the fretboard by concentrating on one string at a time.

Greg Rapaport
Greg Rapaport

Even more of Greg`s personal uses and insights into this somewhat eclectic scale.

Scott Allen
Scott Allen

Scott`s tackles the unteachable, and talks about adding bends, slides, and killer vibrato to your solo work

Jirakit Somame
Jirakit Somame

Here are more exercises to develop and improve outside picking and alternate picking.

Scott Allen
Scott Allen

Scott Allen explodes the myth of the pentatonic scale being only appropriate for beginners.

Joe Pinnavaia
Joe Pinnavaia

A different perspective on the pentatonic scale using arpeggios.

Mike Campese
Mike Campese: The Fire Within

Mike is focusing on the Japanese Hirajoshi scale in this lesson on exotic scales.

Joe Pinnavaia
Joe Pinnavaia

Digging in with practical application of the pentatonic scale.

Mike Campese
Mike Campese: The Fire Within

If you are familiar with pentatonic scales, this may be a great way to get into modal playing.

Michael Knight
Michael Knight

Michael Knight returns with the first installment of his Exotic Scales series.

Michael Knight
Michael Knight

Michael Knight has a 4-note diminished scale for you to add to your repertoire.

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