Seven string guitar scales: Explore new sonic territories with extended range guitars.
Editor’s Notes:Seven string guitar scales are an essential part of any guitarist’s repertoire. With an extra string, you can access a wider range of notes and create more complex and interesting solos and riffs.
After analyzing and digging through a wealth of information, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you master the art of playing seven string guitar scales.
Key Differences:
| Standard six-string guitar | Seven-string guitar |
|---|---|
| 21 frets | 24 frets |
| Six strings (E, A, D, G, B, e) | Seven strings (E, A, D, G, B, E, A) |
| Lower range: E2 | Lower range: B1 |
Dive into the article topics:
- Understanding the benefits of a seven-string guitar
- Learning the different types of seven-string guitar scales
- Tips for practicing and mastering seven-string guitar scales
- Exploring the different ways to use seven-string guitar scales in your playing
1. Extended range
The extended range of a seven-string guitar is a major contributing factor to the development of seven string guitar scales. The extra string allows guitarists to explore lower notes, creating new and exciting sonic possibilities.
For example, the seventh string on a seven-string guitar is typically tuned to B, which is a whole step lower than the sixth string (E) on a six-string guitar. This extended range opens up new possibilities for scale patterns and fingerings, allowing guitarists to create more complex and interesting solos and riffs.
Additionally, the extended range of a seven-string guitar makes it possible to play scales that are not possible on a six-string guitar. For example, the diminished scale, which is a symmetrical scale that is often used in jazz and fusion, requires a minimum of seven strings to play in all 12 keys.
The practical significance of understanding the connection between extended range and seven string guitar scales is that it allows guitarists to expand their musical vocabulary and explore new genres. By mastering seven string guitar scales, guitarists can create more complex and interesting solos and riffs, and open up new possibilities for their playing.
| Six-string guitar | Seven-string guitar |
|---|---|
| Range: E2 to e4 | Range: B1 to e4 |
| Lowest note: E2 | Lowest note: B1 |
| Scales: Major, minor, pentatonic, blues | Scales: Major, minor, pentatonic, blues, diminished, harmonic minor |
2. New chord voicings
The extra string on a seven-string guitar opens up a world of possibilities for creating new and extended chord voicings. With seven strings at your disposal, you can create chords that are wider, deeper, and more complex than those possible on a six-string guitar.
- Wider voicings: The extra string allows you to spread out your chords, creating wider voicings that can add a sense of space and depth to your music.
- Deeper voicings: The seventh string can also be used to create deeper voicings, adding a richer and fuller sound to your chords.
- Extended voicings: The extra string allows you to create extended chords, such as add9, add11, and sus4 chords, which can add a more sophisticated and interesting sound to your playing.
- Inversions and variations: The extra string also gives you more options for inversions and variations of chords, allowing you to create unique and personal voicings.
Overall, the new chord voicings that are possible on a seven-string guitar can add a new dimension to your playing, allowing you to create more expressive and interesting music.
3. Tonal versatility
The tonal versatility of seven string guitars is directly connected to the expanded range of seven string guitar scales. With an extra string, seven string guitars can access a wider range of notes, allowing guitarists to create a more diverse and expressive sound.
- Extended range: The extra string on a seven string guitar extends the range of the instrument by a whole step, giving guitarists access to lower notes. This extended range allows guitarists to play scales and chords that are not possible on a six-string guitar.
- New chord voicings: The extra string also allows for new and extended chord voicings, adding depth and richness to the guitar’s sound. These new voicings can be used to create a wider range of tonal colors, from deep and heavy to bright and jangly.
- Genre exploration: The tonal versatility of seven string guitars makes them well-suited for a wide range of genres, from metal and progressive rock to jazz and fusion. Guitarists who want to explore different genres can benefit from the extended range and tonal possibilities of a seven string guitar.
- Musical expression: Ultimately, the tonal versatility of seven string guitars gives guitarists more freedom to express themselves musically. With a wider range of notes and sounds at their disposal, guitarists can create more complex and interesting solos, riffs, and chords.
In conclusion, the tonal versatility of seven string guitars is a major factor in the development of seven string guitar scales. The extra string on a seven string guitar allows guitarists to access a wider range of notes and create a more diverse and expressive sound.
4. Technical challenges
The technical challenges associated with playing seven string guitar scales are directly related to the increased range and complexity of the instrument. With an extra string, seven string guitars require a wider finger span and increased fretboard navigation skills.
- Finger span: The wider neck of a seven string guitar requires guitarists to have a wider finger span in order to reach all of the strings comfortably. This can be a challenge for guitarists with smaller hands, but it can be overcome with practice and dedication.
Fretboard navigation: The extra string on a seven string guitar also means that guitarists need to develop increased fretboard navigation skills. This includes being able to quickly and accurately find the correct notes on the fretboard, as well as being able to move smoothly between different positions. - Alternate picking: Alternate picking is a technique that is often used to play seven string guitar scales. This technique involves using a downstroke on the downbeat and an upstroke on the upbeat. Alternate picking can be challenging to master, but it is an essential technique for playing seven string guitar scales smoothly and accurately.
- String skipping: String skipping is a technique that involves playing notes on non-adjacent strings. This technique can be used to create interesting and complex patterns on a seven string guitar. String skipping can be challenging to master, but it is a useful technique for expanding your playing vocabulary.
Overall, the technical challenges associated with playing seven string guitar scales are outweighed by the increased range and tonal possibilities of the instrument. With practice and dedication, guitarists can overcome these challenges and unlock the full potential of the seven string guitar.
5. Genre exploration
The connection between genre exploration and seven string guitar scales is rooted in the unique characteristics of the seven string guitar. With its extended range and increased tonal versatility, the seven string guitar is well-suited for genres that demand complex and intricate playing techniques.
- Tonal versatility: The seven string guitar’s extended range and expanded chord voicings give guitarists a wider palette of sounds to work with. This tonal versatility makes the seven string guitar a popular choice for genres such as metal, where guitarists often use a wide range of techniques to create a diverse and expressive sound.
- Technical challenges: The technical challenges associated with playing seven string guitar scales, such as the wider finger span and increased fretboard navigation skills required, make it a popular choice for guitarists who are looking to expand their technical abilities. Genres such as progressive rock and jazz fusion often feature complex and challenging guitar solos, making the seven string guitar a perfect fit for guitarists who want to push the boundaries of their playing.
- Genre exploration: The seven string guitar’s unique characteristics make it a popular choice for guitarists who are looking to explore different genres. The extended range and tonal versatility of the seven string guitar allow guitarists to experiment with different sounds and styles, making it a versatile instrument for a wide range of genres.
In conclusion, the connection between genre exploration and seven string guitar scales is rooted in the unique characteristics of the seven string guitar. The extended range, tonal versatility, and technical challenges associated with playing seven string guitar scales make it a popular choice for guitarists in genres such as metal, progressive rock, and jazz fusion.
6. Scale fingerings
The connection between scale fingerings and seven string guitar scales stems from the unique characteristics of the seven string guitar. With an extra string, seven string guitar scales require different fingerings and patterns compared to six-string scales. This is because the wider neck and increased range of the seven string guitar necessitate different hand positions and finger stretches.
For example, a basic major scale on a six-string guitar can be played using the following fingering:
1 2 3 4 3 2 1However, on a seven string guitar, the same major scale requires the following fingering:
1 2 3 4 3 2 1 0The addition of the seventh string requires the guitarist to use their pinky finger to reach the lowest note, and this changes the fingering pattern for the entire scale.
Understanding the different scale fingerings for seven string guitar scales is essential for playing these scales smoothly and accurately. Guitarists who are accustomed to playing six-string scales will need to adjust their fingerings and hand positions when playing seven string guitar scales.
The practical significance of understanding scale fingerings for seven string guitar scales is that it allows guitarists to play a wider range of scales and create more complex and interesting solos and riffs. By mastering the different fingerings and patterns, guitarists can unlock the full potential of the seven string guitar.
| Scale | Six-string guitar fingering | Seven-string guitar fingering |
|---|---|---|
| Major scale | 1 2 3 4 3 2 1 | 1 2 3 4 3 2 1 0 |
| Minor scale | 1 2 b3 4 3 2 1 | 1 2 b3 4 3 2 1 0 |
| Pentatonic scale | 1 2 3 5 3 2 1 | 1 2 3 5 3 2 1 0 |
| Blues scale | 1 3 b5 4 3 2 1 | 1 3 b5 4 3 2 1 0 |
7. Exotic scales
The extra string on a seven-string guitar opens up new possibilities for playing exotic scales, such as the diminished scale and the harmonic minor scale. These scales are not possible to play on a six-string guitar, and they add a unique and distinctive sound to music.
- Diminished scale: The diminished scale is a symmetrical scale that is often used in jazz and fusion music. It has a dark and mysterious sound, and it can be used to create complex and interesting solos and riffs.
- Harmonic minor scale: The harmonic minor scale is a minor scale with a raised seventh note. This gives it a more melodic and lyrical sound than the natural minor scale. The harmonic minor scale is often used in classical music, and it can also be used to create beautiful and expressive solos and riffs.
In addition to the diminished and harmonic minor scales, there are many other exotic scales that can be played on a seven-string guitar. These scales offer guitarists a wide range of new sounds and possibilities to explore.
8. Improvisation freedom
The connection between improvisation freedom and seven string guitar scales is rooted in the expanded range of notes available on a seven-string guitar. With an extra string, guitarists have access to a wider range of notes, which gives them more freedom to explore different melodic and harmonic possibilities during improvisation.
For example, a guitarist playing a solo on a six-string guitar may be limited to using notes within a certain range. However, a guitarist playing a solo on a seven-string guitar has access to a wider range of notes, which give
s them more freedom to create unique and interesting solos that extend beyond the traditional boundaries of the six-string guitar.
The practical significance of understanding the connection between improvisation freedom and seven string guitar scales is that it allows guitarists to expand their musical vocabulary and create more expressive and interesting solos. By mastering seven string guitar scales, guitarists can unlock the full potential of the seven-string guitar and take their improvisation skills to the next level.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Wider range of notes | With an extra string, seven-string guitars provide guitarists with access to a wider range of notes, allowing them to explore more melodic and harmonic possibilities during improvisation. |
| Increased freedom | The wider range of notes available on a seven-string guitar gives guitarists more freedom to create unique and interesting solos that extend beyond the traditional boundaries of the six-string guitar. |
| Expanded musical vocabulary | By mastering seven string guitar scales, guitarists can expand their musical vocabulary and create more expressive and interesting solos. |
9. Musical expression
The connection between musical expression and seven string guitar scales lies in the expanded range of notes and the unique tonal possibilities that the seventh string offers. With an extra string at their disposal, guitarists can explore new melodic and harmonic ideas, creating a wider palette of sounds and expressions.
The extended range of the seven-string guitar allows guitarists to access lower notes, which can add depth and richness to their playing. Additionally, the seventh string opens up new possibilities for chord voicings, giving guitarists more options to create complex and interesting harmonies.
The practical significance of understanding the connection between musical expression and seven string guitar scales is that it allows guitarists to expand their musical vocabulary and create more expressive and personal music. By mastering seven string guitar scales, guitarists can unlock the full potential of the instrument and take their playing to the next level.
Here are some examples of how guitarists have used seven string guitar scales to express themselves musically in new and innovative ways:
- Djent guitarists often use seven-string guitars to create heavy and dissonant sounds. The extended range of the seven-string guitar allows djent guitarists to explore lower tunings and create unique and aggressive riffs.
- Progressive metal guitarists use seven-string guitars to create complex and intricate solos. The extra string gives progressive metal guitarists more options for creating melodic and harmonic ideas, and it allows them to explore new and innovative techniques.
- Jazz guitarists use seven-string guitars to create extended chords and complex harmonies. The seventh string gives jazz guitarists more options for creating rich and sophisticated voicings, and it allows them to explore new and innovative harmonic possibilities.
Overall, the connection between musical expression and seven string guitar scales is a powerful one. By mastering seven string guitar scales, guitarists can expand their musical vocabulary, create more expressive and personal music, and explore new and innovative ways to play the guitar.
| Insight | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Seven string guitar scales provide guitarists with a wider range of notes to work with. | This expanded range allows guitarists to create more complex and interesting solos and riffs. |
| The seventh string opens up new possibilities for chord voicings. | This gives guitarists more options to create rich and sophisticated harmonies. |
| Mastering seven string guitar scales allows guitarists to express themselves musically in new and innovative ways. | By expanding their musical vocabulary, guitarists can create more personal and expressive music. |
FAQs on Seven String Guitar Scales
This section addresses frequently asked questions and misconceptions about seven string guitar scales to provide a comprehensive understanding.
Question 1: Are seven string guitar scales more difficult to learn than six-string scales?
While seven string guitar scales require a wider finger span and more fretboard navigation, with dedication and practice, they can be mastered. The benefits of an extended range often outweigh the initial learning curve.
Question 2: What are the benefits of using seven string guitar scales?
Seven string guitar scales offer a wider range of notes, enabling guitarists to create more complex and interesting solos and riffs. Additionally, the seventh string allows for new and extended chord voicings, adding depth and richness to your playing.
Question 3: Are seven string guitar scales only used in specific genres?
While seven string guitar scales are popular in genres like metal, progressive rock, and jazz fusion, they can be incorporated into various musical styles. The extended range and tonal versatility make them a valuable tool for guitarists seeking to expand their musical expression.
Question 4: Are there specific techniques required to play seven string guitar scales?
Playing seven string guitar scales effectively involves mastering techniques like alternate picking, string skipping, and finger rolls. These techniques enhance your ability to execute complex patterns and transitions smoothly.
Question 5: How can I practice seven string guitar scales effectively?
Regular practice is crucial. Start with shorter scales and gradually increase the length and complexity. Use a metronome to improve timing and accuracy. Focus on proper finger positioning and smooth transitions between notes.
Question 6: What are some tips for improvising with seven string guitar scales?
When improvising with seven string guitar scales, experiment with different combinations and sequences. Explore the extended range to create unique melodic ideas. Use the seventh string to add depth and harmonic interest to your solos.
Summary: Understanding seven string guitar scales empowers guitarists with a wider range of notes and tonal possibilities. While they may require some initial effort to master, the benefits in terms of musical expression and creativity are significant. Incorporating seven string guitar scales into your playing opens up new avenues for exploration and self-expression.
Transition: Explore the diverse range of seven string guitar scales and enhance your guitar playing skills.
Seven String Guitar Scales
Mastering seven string guitar scales unlocks a world of new possibilities for guitarists. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Tip 1: Familiarize yourself with the extended range
The seventh string extends the guitar’s range by a whole step, giving you access to lower notes. Take time to explore the new notes and how they fit into the existing scale patterns.
Tip 2: Practice finger independence
The wider neck of a seven-string guitar requires increased finger independence. Focus on exercises that strengthen your fingers and improve their coordination.
Tip 3: Utilize alternate picking
Alternate picking is a technique that involves using a downstroke on the downbeat and an upstroke on the upbeat. This technique is particularly effective for playing seven string guitar scales smoothly and accurately.
Tip 4: Experiment with different scale fingerings
Seven string guitar scales often require different fingerings compared to six-string scales. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fingerings to find what works best for you.
Tip 5: Explore exotic scales
The extra string on a seven-string guitar opens up the possibility of playing exotic scales, such as the diminished scale and the harmonic minor scale. These scales add a unique and distinctive sound to your playing.
Summary:
By following these tips, you can expand your musical vocabulary, create more complex and interesting solos and riffs, and explore new genres on the seven-string guitar.
Transition:
In conclusion, mastering seven string guitar scales is a journey that requires dedication and practice. Embrace the challenges, experiment with different techniques, and unlock the full potential of your seven-string guitar.
Conclusion
In this exploration of seven string guitar scales, we have uncovered their unique characteristics, benefits, and techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or just starting your journey, incorporating seven string guitar scales into your playing can open up new avenues for musical expression.
The extended range, tonal versatility, and technical challenges of seven string guitar scales make them a rewarding pursuit for guitarists seeking to expand their skills and creativity. By embracing the possibilities of the seventh string, guitarists can create more complex and interesting solos, riffs, and chords, and explore new genres and musical styles.
Mastering seven string guitar scales requires dedication, practice, and a willingness to push your boundaries. With perseverance, you can unlock the full potential of your seven-string guitar and elevate your playing to new heights.
