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February 2001

Finger Exercises, Part 2

In the last issue we learned a simple finger exercise to improve picking/fretting coordination. Another great exercise is to play a simple major scale utilizing all six strings.

A scale consists of a series of "steps." Some are "half steps." Some are "whole steps." From one fret the next, either up or down, is a half step. Moving two frets, either up or down, is a whole step. So, on the "E" string, from the third fret (G) to the fourth fret (G#) is a half step. From the third fret (G) to the fifth fret (A) is a whole step.

Most of us have heard the major scale as "Do-Re-Mi-Fa-So-La-Ti-Do". In this scale there are eight notes, or tones. This series of tones give us a formula for a major scale. This formula is made up of the steps we mentioned above. Using "W" for whole steps and "H" for half steps, here is the complete formula for the major scale:

W - W - H - W - W - W - H

In the key of G, these steps fall on the following notes:

G - A - B - C - D - E - F# - G

These notes make up the G major scale. Now, let's put them on the fretboard.

Start on the low E string (the big one) on the third fret, using your second (middle) finger. This is the "G", the root note of your scale. Then, play "A" on the fifth fret using your third (ring) finger.

Now, using your first (index) finger, play the "B" on the second fret on the fifth string (A). Move your second (middle) finger down to the third fret and play the "C". Continue playing up the scale according to the diagram below.

It is important that you use the proper fingering when playing scales. In this example, your first (index) finger is assigned to the second fret. Every note that is played on the second fret should be played with your first finger. Every note on the third fret should be played with your second finger. Every note on the fourth fret should be played with your third finger. Every note on the fifth fret should be played with your fourth finger.



After you are comfortable with this exercise, play the scale backwards, starting with the high "G" on the small "E" string. Remember to keep your fingering correct.

Begin slowly and try to keep a steady tempo. As you practice this exercise you can begin increasing your picking speed. But remember, a consistent tempo is more important than speed. Metronomes are a great help.

Stay Tuned,
Steve




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