It is important as you learn guitar scales to learn the
modes of the major scale. A good starting point is the Ionian mode or simply
called the major scale. This scale is very popular in all different types of
music from classical to rock to jazz and many others.

This scale is in a sense a reference point for much of the
terminology in music and is the one scale that is essential for musicians to
understand.

 

As you learn guitar scales you will realise that scales are
simply a series of notes separated by distinct intervals or steps. The
intervals of the Ionian mode are root tone –T-T –ST –T-T-T-ST, where T = a tone
or two frets and ST = a semitone or 1 fret. A major scale can be formed by
simply arranging any set of notes with these intervals. This set of intervals
gives the well known – do, re, me, fa, so la, ti sound.

 

The major scale intervals produce a bright and happy feel.
This can be attributed mostly to the major 3rd but also how the
other notes sound in relation to the root note. This scale is often chosen to
convey a positive, happy vibe to a piece of music. As you learn guitar scales,
listen to how the intervals affect the mood and feel of the scale.

 

The major scale will give a good starting or reference point
to other scales, due to its neutral, easy sounding intervals. Once you know how
it sounds, you can train your ear to listen out for differences in these
familiar intervals giving different scales. This is an important skill as you
learn guitar scales.

 

If we take the major scale we can construct triads from each
of the notes, creating 3 major, 3 minor and a diminished chord. A typical major
progression will only use the major triads from the root, fourth and fifth
notes of the scale. These three chords are often the easiest to solo over.

 

The major scale is used extensively in rock, classical,
jazz, country and even hymns and nursery rhymes. The longest guitar solo ever
in the top forty charts ; Slash’s “November Rain” used this scale, showing us
just how versatile this scale can be.

 

As you learn guitar scales and progress beyond the
pentatonics and blues, ensure to learn the modes. The Ionian mode or major
scale is a logical starting point to expand your lead guitar playing skills.

 

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