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View Full Version : what is the ultimate goal with scales?

gnr10101
January 23rd, 2001, 02:44 PM
hello,

I just started the guitar last month and i am following stonedragon's lessons to the letter (which is kinda rough cuz im 16 and a heavy metal fan), but i do read these posts every once in a while and was wondering what the ultimate goal of scales are? I realize they help you solo better but i don't understand how exactly it is done and how it slowly over time begins to help you, i have a general idea but need a little clarification.
ghodaddyyo
January 23rd, 2001, 04:04 PM
Scales are organized notes that when used properly, convey a certain sound which fit over certain chords in a certain way. Chords are created from scales.

Imagine if the song is sad and weepy, yet you play notes that sound happy. Won't really fit, will it? By understanding what notes you can hit over certain chords, you will make your solos sound is if you are trying to convey some meaning.

Being that you play metal, you are going to play a lot of power chords. Do you know what notes sound good over power chords? You can fumble around until you find a combination of good sounding notes(which could take you a long time)or you can study some theory and learn what notes will work automatically. This is especially helpful when you find yourself in a jam situation, and its your turn to solo over a song you've never played before.

Hope this helps.
StoneDragon
January 23rd, 2001, 04:37 PM
HA HA ... I didn't think my lessons would make it rough on heavy metal fans.

To add to ghodaddyyo's excelent post:

The ultimate goal of scale practice is to learn your instrument from top to bottom, so you know exactly where to find the sounds you are looking for.

Scales are the binding ingredient that holds together melody and harmony. If you want to know how music works, you gotta know the scales.

For now, think of scale practice as aerobics for you fingers. You gotta get those fingers moving if you are going to play any serious metal.
MrSamson
January 23rd, 2001, 05:09 PM
Yep...and if you are playing metal...I would get your head moving too...

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