The next essential scale is the natural minor. For purposes of comparison with the major scale, the C natural minor scale is included in the tablature in two patterns relatively consistent with those we covered in our last lesson. It is defined by the scale degrees: 1-2-b3-4-5-b6-b7-(8).

FIGURE 1

 

The pattern reflected in the lower staff of tablature might be more familiar to some of you, as it doesn’t require as much of a stretch; however, I feel that it is also critical to learn in the pattern shown on the upper staff of tablature, as it allows one to easily compare the relative differences (and unique characteristics) between the various scales one encounters. It’s my experience that learning a series of scales (or arpeggios, etc.) in a consistent pattern on the fingerboard REALLY helps one to assimilate these similarities & differences.

Based upon a comparison between the pattern reflected on the upper staff with the same from the major scale in our last lesson, it is very clear that the 3rd, 6th, and 7th degrees are flatted, with the remaining scale degrees being common to both the major and natural minor scales. As always, keep in mind that these patterns can be transposed to any key simply by moving the root note to the desired key.

EXERCISE 1

Play through the C natural minor scale using both patterns. As with our last lesson, try to resist the urge to blaze your way through the scale; rather, work to really assimilate the musical concepts that the patterns represent. Be constantly focused on what scale degree is being played at any given moment, and how it relates to the root.

Video Exercise 1

 

EXERCISE 2

Transpose these patterns and play them in all 12 keys, as we did with the major scale.

EXERCISE 3

Play through the C natural minor scale in staggered 3rd’s.

Ascending, that would be:

1-(b3)-2-(4)-b3-(5)-4-(b6)-5-(b7)-b6-(8)-b7-(9)-8.

Then, descending:

8-(b6)-b7-(5)-b6-(4)-5-(b3)-4-(2)-b3-(1)-2-(b7 below)-1.

Video Exercise 3