Introduction to the Chromatic Scale
Music Theory: Level 1 • 2m 32s
We’re going to talk about the Chromatic Scale! First, it’s important to know that a majority of the scales and chord shape examples in Guitar Super System are based out of the G Major Scale. With that in mind, the shapes and patterns you’ll learn can be moved around anywhere on the neck, and I’ll show you how to do that when it applies.
The Chromatic Scale is the ultimate scale in the music universe. Every other scale you can think of is derived directly from the Chromatic Scale. The basis behind that is the Chromatic Scale is actually made up of every single note in an octave.
To play the Chromatic Scale, you’ll simply play each note in order until you reach the octave. In this example, we play two octaves of the Chromatic scale. In case you’re wondering, an octave is the interval between one note and another which sounds at the same pitch. In the G Chromatic Scale, we start on G, and continue until we get to the next G - its octave. We then continue up to the G note on the high E string - the second octave.
Up Next in Music Theory: Level 1
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The Chromatic Scale Playing Example
As you’re probably hearing, the Chromatic Scale doesn’t sound very good on its own. The good news is we’re only talking about the Chromatic Scale for your understanding — we won’t spend any more time playing it in this way. As long as you are aware of the Chromatic Scale, that’s all that matters ...
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Using Chromatic Notes Effectively
Chromatic notes are the beginning and the end of all the "correct" notes in your phrases. The perfect way to consider these tones are like stepping stones, where you don't want to stand for too long, but can afford to put your weight on for a moment or two.
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Introduction to the Major Scale
Now that you’ve conquered the Chromatic Scale, which sounds… er… really awesome, we’re going to discuss the Major Scale! The Major Scale is very simple to recognize, because it sounds exactly like the childhood song “Do, Re, Mi”.
The Major Scale is the bread and butter of nearly every guitar pla...
