Review
Basics for definition of whole and half steps
and importance of Bert and Ernie.
1.
Start on C (3rd fret of A string).
2. Go one
whole step higher to D (5th fret).
3. From D
go another whole step to E (7th fret).
4. Next
a half step. We are on E (Ernie) so the very next fret is F (8th fret).
5. Continue following the formula
You
might also want to try starting on a C on another string. Can you find a C on
your B string (2nd string)? Using the same formula above you will end up with
a C major scale one octave higher.
1st
Position C Major Scale
Playing a scale on
one string is a great way to learn the fretboard but not the most efficient way
to play a scale. Try a 1st position C major scale.
Start by putting your
3rd finger on low C (3rd fret of your A string). Proceed to follow the alphabet
from low to high using the proper 1st position fingers as explained below.
Index finger looks after notes on the first fret
Middle finger looks after the second
Ring looks after the third
Little
finger on the fourth Note: the 4th finger is not needed
for this scale
Note:
D,G and B notes are open strings.
Note:
Concentrate on using the correct
fingers and saying the note names as you play.
Alternate Picking
Alternate picking involves alternating between down and up strokes with the pick.
Practice alternate picking on an open string. When you feel comfortable
with the alternate picking proceed to play this scale as marked. Start with a
down stroke.
Try to tap your foot as you play. Listen=60
When alternate picking, pick down towards the floor as your foot goes down
and back up as your foot raises. Practice tapping your foot and alternate picking
on an open string before trying the scale.
Natural
Picking
Natural picking is a combination of alternate
and sweep picking. Alternate picking is the fastest way to play on one string
but sweep picking keeps the pick going in the same direction when crossing strings
and sometimes lets us go even faster.
The importance of the pick hand can never be underestimated.
Many players tend to concentrate more on the fret hand and believe it is their
fret hand that lacks in obtaining the speed they would like to have. 9 times out
of 10 it is the picking hand that is the problem. Just ask any violinist how important
the bow is. Our pick is no different.
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