Next Level Guitar ®

Classic Blues Rock Guitar Blueprint

Gary Moore Inspired
eBook, Video Lessons, Jam Track

written by David Taub

www.NextLevelGuitar.com
Copyright © 2014 Next Level Guitar Inc. All rights reserved
Unauthorized copying or distribution strictly prohibited
Hello, David Taub here from Next Level Guitar. Welcome to our Gary Moore inspired lesson blueprints. This
eBook was designed along with the Gary Moore inspired jam track and coinciding video lessons.

These three learning tools, the jam track, video lessons, and eBook, are designed to work together to help
inspire you in this style while honing and developing your lead guitar skills. In these lessons you will learn all
kinds of techniques, devices, scales, and approaches to soloing in the Gary Moore style.

The Gary Moore style of play focuses on searing lead lines with melodic, emotional, bluesy, and very
expressive playing. We’re talking high-octane blues rock at it’s finest! Even though Moore is mainly known as
a blues player, he was a premiere rock player for many years.

He is a very unique player with an instantly identifiable style and tone. All you need to hear is one note, and
you know its Gary Moore.

Through his unique use of scales and melodic devices he puts a more sophisticated spin on the blues,
especially over slower ballads and complex changes. Other key elements in his style include monster distorted
tone, very aggressive vibrato, and really going for broke which each phrase.

This style of play is fiery and frenetic and can often drift between fast alternate picked lines and fluid legato
phrases. Whether Moore was playing blues, rock, or combinations of both, his playing was always high on
melodic content as well as technique.

Although he has played many guitars throughout his career, Moore’s signature tone is associated most with
his 1959 Les Paul Standard. That would be the yellow “lemonburst” Les Paul that was originally owned by
Peter Green of Fleetwood Mac fame.

Moore was a master at using the neck pickup for the more warm, melodic, vocal like lead lines and then
switching to the bridge pickup for a more aggressive and searing sound. Although Moore’s later bluesy style
focused mainly on Minor Pentatonic and Blues scales his earlier playing often utilized major and minor type
scales. We will be examining all these scales throughout these learning materials.

Moore’s brilliant playing has influenced countless guitarists all over

the world. His untimely death in 2011 was a huge blow to the
music world and he is sadly missed.

He was truly one of the greats, and we can all be inspired and
empowered through his playing and his forty-plus year catalog of
recordings.

The materials discussed throughout this eBook are guidelines to

get you started, they are not rules forged in stone. Often you have
to use your discretion when jamming and let your ear guide you.
Remember, if it sounds good…….it is good.

Now lets’s get started……

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 Table of Contents

Introduction……………………………………………………………………………………………....…..2
Table of contents…………………………………………………………………………………………….3
The choices when soloing………………………………………………………………………………….4
Gary Moore inspired jam track……..………………………………………………………………………5
Treat each chord as a separate event 1…………….…………………………………………………….6
Treat each chord as a separate event 2…………….…………………………………………………….7
Triads - defined & application………………………………………………………………………………8
Arpeggios - defined & application....………………………………………………………………………9
Arpeggios over each chord………………………………………………………………………………..10
Minor pentatonic - the five box shapes………………………………………………………………..…11
Minor pentatonic - the expanded scales………………………………………………………………....12
Minor pentatonic & blues - the five box shapes………………………………………………………....13
Minor pentatonic & blues - the expanded scales………………………………………………………..14
Minor key soloing theory…………………………………………………………………………………...15
The major pentatonic scale………………………………………………………………………………..16
The major pentatonic scale - key points……………………………………………………………..…..17
The major scale.…………………………………………………………………………………………….18
Major scale links across the fretboard ………………………………………………………………...…19
The modes of the major scale - overview………………………………………………………………...20
The modes of the major scale - application 1………………………………………………………….…21
The modes of the major scale - application 2………………………………………………………….…22
The modes of the major scale - Aeolian …………………………………………………………….……23
The modes of the major scale - Dorian……………………………………………………………….…..24
The modes of the major scale - Mixolydian………………………………………………………………25
Soloing review tips…………………………………………………………………………………….…….26
A few words of encouragement from the author David Taub.…………………………………….……27

Remember to experiment, get creative, and continually challenge yourself on the guitar. Be bold and try new
things and eventually come up with other lead guitar avenues that work within your playing style.

Keep in mind that after the theory, and the “why” things work, there needs to come a point when you take a
break from learning theory and scales and just play music. Music is so much more than just the logical
application of theories and melodies.

There is a human emotional element to music that you want to get across in your playing. So yes, practice
and study up, but strike a balance, be inspired, and then just get out there and have fun.

You know what I always say, “If it’s not fun……..why do it?”

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3 of 27
 The Choices When Soloing
When soloing or improvising there are TWO CHOICES:
1. Solo with what “relates to all” – use the same scale/mode over
all the chords. No matter what chord is sounding, play the same
scale over each chord. You play what works over ALL the chords.
This is the most common choice and definitely what most players
do when first developing their soloing skills. Start with what relates
to all. Get proficient at this before moving on to the next choice. Be creative and try new
things. There is no
substitute for learning
OR YOU CAN: scales and studying
the sounds and
relationships between
2. Treat each chord like a “separate event” - this choice is more chords and scales.
challenging but yields a more sophisticated sound. By treating
each chord as a separate event you solo with a different scale or
mode over each chord and change the scale or mode with each
chord change. This techniques does not stay within the confines Keep developing
of the same scale as with what “relates to all”. your ear and practice
using jam tracks.
With this approach you must listen to what is going on underneath
the soloing. You have to listen to which chords are sounding and
Continually push
also for the changes. Then time your playing and change scales yourself to the next level.
as the chords change. Stay positive and
always remember……
Employ this technique whenever there is enough time on a given YOU CAN DO IT!
chord. If the chords are flying by fast, there isn’t enough time to
treat each chord as a “separate event”.
This technique takes practice but it will skyrocket your playing to
the next level. Practice this technique with slow tempo
progressions where there is lots of time on each chord and
remember to listen for the changes.
The Gary Moore inspired jam track is perfect for these techniques
as the changes are slow and there is lots of time on each chord.

KEY POINT: The above two choices are NOT mutually exclusive,
you can mix them both together. Treat each chord as a “separate
event” for a while, then switch it up and play what “relates to all”.

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 Gary Moore Inspired Jam Track
Key - A minor Time Signature: 6/8
Tempo - 50 BPM Length of Track - 10:42

Chords: Am - Dm - G7 - Cmaj7 - Fmaj7 - Bm7b5 - E7 - Am Minor Pentatonic &

Blues Scales -
This slow blues track is in the key of A minor and in 6/8 time.
Count the beats like this: 1-2-3-4-5-6, 1-2-3-4-5-6. The track is a
4 great applications:
very pretty progression custom made for melodic, vocal like guitar
soloing melodies. Think melodic phrasing, bends, and vibrato. 1. Over all chords in minor key
(except a major V chord)
Since we are in minor key we can instantly consider utilizing minor
pentatonic & blues as one soloing option, (memorize the four key 2. Over any minor type chord
minor pentatonic application points illustrated on the right). when treating each chord as a
separate event
To get the complete soloing picture you have to analyze the
chords. The chords give the soloing roadmap. Get in the habit of 3. Over all the chords in major
always analyzing the chords. key I-IV-V blues jams, swings,
and shuffles
On this slow blues track there is lot of time on each chord. This is
a perfect track for treating each chord as a “separate event”. 4. Over all the chords in rock
Remember, if the chords are flying by fast you don’t have enough jams or jams using power or 5th
time to solo on each chord independently. In those cases you chords, (except major sounding
would be playing more of what “relates to all”. jams and ballads)

Let’s examine the two soloing options: Soloing in minor key:

When playing over all the
1. What Relates to all the chords:
chords in minor key, what
A. We are in minor key. A minor pentatonic & blues scales “relates to all”, you can always
works over all the chords. No matter which chord you are playing use Natural Minor Scales,
over, solo with A minor pentatonic & blues scales as those scales (Aeolian Mode), UNLESS there
“relate to all” the chords. is a major IV chord or a minor ii
chord, in those cases use the
B. A Natural Minor Scales, (A Aeolian mode) - In minor key a Dorian Mode.
minor mode usually relates to all the chords. Since we are in
minor key and there is no major IV chord, we can play A natural
minor scales, A Aeolian, over all the chords, A Aeolian = C Major.

C. Mix both A Aeolian and A minor pentatonic & blues scales

over all the chords for some killer sounds. Be creative and try to
resolve your licks on strong chord tones and refer to the video
lessons for playing examples.

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 Treat Each Chord As A Separate Event - 1
2. Treat each chord as a separate event:
Playing over each chord independently is more challenging than playing
what “relates to all”. It requires listening for the chord movements and
changing your scale as the chords change. It is challenging at first, but
yields a more sophisticated sound. Always analyze the chord
Don’t worry if you are not familiar all the options listed below. Try what you progression. The chords
are comfortable with at this point in your guitar journey and the other options give the complete roadmap
can be attempted down the road. If you are unsure of the scales or that unlocks all the soloing
arpeggios notated below, they are illustrated in the coming pages.
& improvisational avenues.
The chords change slow on the Moore inspired jam track. Slow changing
chords provide great opportunity to treat each chord as a “separate event”.
First determine the
When treating each chord as a “separate event” be sure to switch tonal key signature. Often, you
centers by emphasizing the root of the mode. The chords in the Gary Moore will be soloing in major or
inspired jam track are:
minor key. Knowing the key
Am - Dm - G7 - Cmaj7 - Fmaj7 - Bm7b5 - E7 - Am is the first step.
Over the Am chord:
-A minor pentatonic & blues, (A,C,D,Eb,E,G). This is the scale of choice for most players. Minor pentatonic &
blues scales sound great when played over minor type chords.
-A natural minor, (Aeolian Mode). A Aeolian = C major, (A,B,C,D,E,F,G). Play C major scales but emphasize the A
notes for A Aeolian. Natural minor scales sound great when played over minor type chords.
-A Dorian, A Dorian = G major, (A,B,C,D,E,F#,G). Play G major scales but emphasize the A notes for A Dorian.
Dorian sounds great when played over minor type chords.
-Am and Am7 arpeggios. Cmaj7 arpeggio adds the 2nd and b7th. F#m7b5 arpeggio takes it a step further and
adds the 6th. Adding these notes add color and tension. Experiment and get creative.
-Em pentatonic, (E,G,A,B,D). This scale adds the 2nds or 9th - the B note. A very pretty note. Adding the minor
pentatonic scale up a fifth from the root, A to E, produces this sound.
-Bm pentatonic, (B,D,E,F#,A). This scale adds the 2nd, B, and the 6th, F#. This creates tension. Adding the minor
pentatonic scale up a whole step from the root, A to B, yields this sound.

Over the Dm chord:

-D minor pentatonic & blues, (D,F,G,Ab,A,C). Cant go wrong with this scale choice - very popular.
-D natural minor (Aeolian mode). D Aeolian = F major, (D,E,F,G,A,Bb,C). Play F major scales but emphasize the
D notes for D Aeolian. Natural minor scales sound great when played over minor type chords.
-D Dorian, D Dorian = C major, (D,E,F,G,A,B,C). Play C major scales but emphasize the D notes for D Dorian.
Dorian sounds great when played over minor type chords.
-Dm and Dm7 arpeggios, Fmaj7 arpeggio adds the 2nd and b7th. Am7 arpeggio also adds the 11th.
-Em pentatonic, (E,G,A,B,D). This scale adds the 2nd, E, and the 6th, B. Adding the minor pentatonic scale up a
whole step from the root, D to E, yields this sound.
Over the G7 chord:
-G major pentatonic, (G,A,B,D,E). Common scale of choice to play over major type chords. Can think of it in terms
of its relative minor pentatonic, E minor pentatonic - same notes, E,G,A,B,D.
-G Mixolydian mode, (G,A,B,C,D,E,F). G Mixolydian = C major. Play C major scales but emphasize the G notes
for G Mixolydian. Mixolydian is a common mode choice to play over 7th chords.
-G7 arpeggio and G major arpeggio.
-G minor pentatonic - (G,Bb,C,D,F). Mixing in minor pentatonic over 7th chords produces an interesting sound.
You get the flat 3rd, Bb, alongside the major 3rd, B. In theory you would think this would be a clash. However, the
minor vs the major 3rd creates tension. Many blues players exploit this minor vs. major 3rd interval. Playing minor
pentatonic over 7th chords produces a bluesy sound, give it a try.
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 Treat Each Chord As A Separate Event - 2
2. Treat each chord as a separate event:
Am - Dm - G7 - Cmaj7 - Fmaj7 - Bm7b5 - E7 - Am
Over the Cmaj7 chord:
-C Lydian mode (C,D,E,F#,G,A,B), C Lydian = G major, Lydian has a #4.
-C major scales (C,D,E,F,G,A,B), C major pentatonic (C,D,E,G,A).
-Cmaj7 arpeggio, C major arpeggio, F#m7b5 arpegggio adds #4 and 6th,
-Em7 arpeggio adds 9th.
-B minor pentatonic (B,D,E,F#,A), adds the #4, 6th, and 9th. Adding the
minor pent scale a half step below the root, C to B, yields this sound. Always analyze the chord
-E minor pentatonic, (E,G,A,B,D), adds the 6th and 9th. Adding the minor progression. The chords
pent scale a third above root, C to E, yields this sound. give the complete roadmap
that unlocks all the soloing
Over the Fmaj7 chord: & improvisational avenues.
-F Lydian mode, F Lydian = C major, (F,G,A,B,C,D,E).
-F major scale, (F,G,A,Bb,C,D,E), F major pentatonic, (F,G,A,C,D).
-Fmaj7 arpeggio, F major arpeggio, Bm7b5 arpegggio adds #4 and 6th,
-Am7 arpeggio adds 9th. First determine the
-E minor pentatonic, (E,G,A,B,D), adds the #4, 6th, and 9th. key signature. Often, you
-A minor pentatonic, (A,C,D,E,G), adds the 6th and 9th. will be soloing in major or
minor key. Knowing the key
Over the Bm7b5 chord: is the first step.
-B Locrian mode, (B,C,D,E,F,G,A,B), B Locrian = C major. Locrian is
often the mode of choice over m7b5 chords.
-E minor pentatonic, (E,G,A,B,D), adds the 11th and b13th.
Even when noodling on the
-B Blues scale but leave out the 5th, (B,D,E,F,A). The flat 5th, or F note,
works but the natural 5th, or F#, would clash over the Bm7b5 chord.
guitar, always know the key
-Bm7b5 arpeggio, Dm7 arpeggio adds a b9, Fmaj7 arpeggio adds a b9 in which you are playing.
and 11th, Em7 arpeggio adds 11th and b13th.

Over the E7 chord:

-E major pentatonic - Same as C#m pentatonic, (E, F#,G#,B,C#). If it sounds good…..it
-E Mixolydian mode - E Mixolydian = A major, (E,F#,G#,A,B,C#,D). is good!
-E minor pentatonic - (E,G,A,B,D,) mixing in minor pentatonic over 7th
chords yields an interesting bluesy sound as you get the flat 3rd minor
note, G, alongside the major 3rd, G#.
-E7 arpeggio, E major arpeggio.

This technique will take some time to master. Start off slow, be patient,
and it will come with time and practice.

Put the track on and just get lost in it. Dont try and do too much, leave
lots of space. Remember, it’s not just what you play, but also what you
dont play.

Be expressive, use lots of bends and vibrato. Milk half and whole step
bends and really work the notes. Get creative, play what sounds best to
your ears, and most of all…..HAVE FUN!
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 Triads - Defined & Application
A triad is a three-note chord which can be utilized in any style of music. The triad is the 1st, 3rd, and 5th of
the scale for the chord you are playing over. Triads can really spice up your playing and give birth to all kinds
of new sounds for lead and rhythm guitar.

Triads are awesome as they can help you create a musical theme or melody. And melody is critical in the
Moore style of play. There are four main types of triads - major, minor, augmented, and diminished. For
these Moore inspired lessons we will focus mainly on minor triads.

A minor triad is made from the intervals 1,b3,5. These are the notes that make up a minor chord. The notes
that make up a chord are also called chord tones. Emphasizing and resolving to these strong chord tones
can really make your solos memorable.

You can put triads together all over the guitar neck. First memorize the basic minor triad shapes below. Play
the notes of the minor triad over it’s respective Am and Dm chords as tabbed out below and as per the video
lessons. Get creative with them and they will open all kinds of soloing opportunites.

Use the chord tones of the other chords in the progression for strong target and landing notes. The notes of
each chord are listed out below. Let your ear guide you and always think in terms of melody.

minor triad root position minor triad first inversion minor triad second inversion

5 b3 5 R b3

b3 5

R R

As per the video lessons below are Am and Dm triads tabbed out in three positions on the fretboard. Find these
triads inside their respective pentatonic scales and use them to create melodic themes and licks. Try to change
triads as the chords change and land on strong chord tones to make strong, memorable solo statements.

e—-8——5—--12—————13——10——5-—————-—————————-———
B—10--—5-—-13—————15——10——6——————————————————
G—9——5——14—————14——10——7——————————————————
D—-——-7———————————12————————————————————-
A———————————————-——————————————————————
E—————————————————————————————————————
Am Triads (A,C,E) Dm Triads (D,F,A)

Moore inspired jam track progression:

Am - Dm - G7 - Cmaj7 - Fmaj7 - Bm7b5 - E7 - Am
Am - A,C,E Dm - D,F,A G7 - G,B,F,D Cmaj7 - C,E,G,B
Fmaj7 - F,A,C,E Bm7b5 - B,F,A,D E7 - E,B,G#,D

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8 of 27
 Arpeggios - Defined & Application
Arpeggios are the notes that make up chord played individually. You can
get creative with arpeggios and generate all kinds of unique sounds.
Arpeggios can be utilized to outline chords, create melody lines, build riffs,
add notes for color, and much more - the sky is the limit!

There are a few key points to consider when playing arpeggios. The first is
you want to hear the arpeggio one note at a time. You don’t want the
arpeggio to sound like a strummed chord. You want to hear each note of
the arpeggio individually.

The goal is to infer the color of the chord with the arpeggio. Kill each
successive note after it is played by muting the strings so the notes dont
Arpeggios are the notes
bleed into each other. that make up a chord.

Another key to good arpeggio playing is mixing arpeggios together with

scales, modes, and licks. Mix them into your lead lines as per the video
examples. Try creating musical phrases combining arpeggios with scales Be sure to sound each
and licks. note of the arpeggio
individually. You don’t want
Another key point is knowing where the arpeggios “live” within a scale. the arpeggio to sound like
You want to be able to grab arpeggios quickly. Over utilizing the same
a strummed chord.
three note triads up and down the neck can often sound a bit sterile and
non-melodic. So be sure to mix the arpeggio in with other scales and licks.

Often when playing arpeggios you may need to utilize the same finger for
two or more adjacent strings. You want “roll” your finger down the strings
Good arpeggio playing
from one adjacent string to the next. This rolling motion of the finger works mixes arpeggios together
the best as opposed to barring your finger when playing arpeggios. with scales, modes,
melodic phrases, and
This rolling finger technique produces a smoother sound that is often various licks.
utilized for sweep picking arpeggios. The rolling of the finger lifts the
pressure off the notes so each note sounds distinct and doesn’t bleed into
the next.
Learn what scales your
Illustrated on the next page are arpeggio examples. These examples can favorite arpeggios “live in”.
be played in any key by grabbing the root note off the low E, A, or D
strings as per the illustrations. Root notes are illustrated in black ovals.

A major chord or major triad is constructed from the intervals of 1st, 3rd,
and 5th degrees of the major scale. To play a major arpeggio just play
those three notes one at a time and then repeat as per the illustrations.

A minor chord or minor triad is constructed from the intervals of 1st, b3rd,
and 5th. Play the 1st ,b3rd, and 5th, one at a time and you have a minor
arpeggio.

First get familiar with the fingerings and the sound of each arpeggio. Then
practice the examples in different keys all over the neck by moving the
root notes. Then try playing an arpeggio over its corresponding chord in
the Moore inspired jam track for some cool sounds.

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 Arpeggio Examples Over Each Chord
Illustrated below are moveable arpeggios that can be utilized over the Gary Moore inspired jam track. Make a mental
note when passing through the root notes of each arpeggio. These arpeggios can be found qucikly by locating the low
root note on the low E, A, or D strings.

Try treating each chord as a “separate event”, and play an arpeggio over each chord in the progression. Change
arpeggios as the chord changes. As per the list below try adding a #4, b7, or 9th for some extra color. Mix in the
arpeggios with riffs and melodic phrases. The progression is Am - Dm - G7 - Cmaj7 - Fmaj7 - Bm7b5 - E7 - Am. Try
the below arpeggios over each chord and remember to listen for the sounds and moods these arpeggios can create.

-over the Am chord - Am, Am7, and Am9 arpeggios, Cmaj7 arpeggio (adds b7 & 9th).
-over the Dm chord - Dm, Dm7, and Dm9 arpeggios, Fmaj7 arpeggio (adds b7 & 9th).
-over the G7 chord - G7 arpeggio, G major arpeggio.
-over the Cmaj7 chord - C major & Cmaj7 arpeggios, Em7 arpeggio (adds 9th), F#m7b5 arpeggio (adds #4 & 6th).
-over the Fmaj7 chord - F major & Fmaj7 arpeggios, Am7 arpeggio (adds 9th), Bm7b5 arpeggio (adds #4 & 6th).
-over the Bm7b5 chord - Bm7b5 arpeggio, Dm7 arpeggio (adds b9), G7 arpeggio (adds b13).
-over the E7 chord - E7 arpeggio, E major arpeggio.

major arpeggio -1,3,5 minor arpeggio - 1,b3,5 minor 7th arpeggio - 1,b3,5,b7

1 1 1 1 1 1

2 1
2

3 2 2
3 3

4 4 4 4
4th finger root A-string 4 4
1st finger root A-string
4th finger root A-string

maj7 arpeggio -1,3,5,7 maj7 arpeggio -1,3,5,7

maj7 arpeggio - 1,3,5,7
1 1 1 1
1 1

2 1 2 2

3 2 2 2 3

4 4 4

4th finger root A-string 4 4 1st finger root D-string

1st finger root A-string
7th arpeggio - 1,3,5,b7 m7b5 arpeggio - 1,b3,b5,b7
minor 9th arpeggio -1,b3,5,b7,9
1 1 1 1
1 1

1 1 1
2
2 2 2 2
3 3
3 3

4 4 4 4
4 4

1st finger root low E-string 1st finger root D-string 1st finger root A-string

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 Minor Pentatonic - The Five Box Shapes
Pentatonic scales are the most commonly used scales in most genres of music. In the Moore style of play
they are utilized extensively, so you will want to get very comfortable with them.

Penta is Latin for five. Much like a penta-gram has five sides and a penta-gon has five sides, pentatonic
scales are constructed from five notes. The minor pentatonic scale is constructed of five notes of the natural
minor scale. The intervals in minor pentatonic are root or 1, b3rd, 4th, 5th, and b7th.

The five box shapes illustrated below cover the entire guitar neck. These are “must-know” scales, especially
for blues and rock. Take your time learning them, chip away a little each day. As you move through each
scale make a mental note of when pass through a root note, which are illustrated in black.

These five positions are the architecture to build licks and runs. They also connect into longer expanded
scales that you will learn in the coming pages. To avoid getting stuck in one position be sure to learn ALL the
positions and practice them in different keys over jam tracks.

These scale shapes are moveable and the key is determined by the low root notes illustrated in black. For
example, if you want to solo in A minor pentatonic over all the chords in the Gary Moore inspired jam track
then play box #1 using your first finger starting at the 5h fret on the low E-string. Fifth fret low-E string is an A
note, that makes the scale an A minor pentatonic scale with the notes A, C, D, E, G.

To try another pentatonic box in A minor over the track play box #3 using your 3rd finger at the 12th fret A-
string. Fret twelve on the A-string is an A note. You are playing the same five notes as in the above example,
A, C, D, E, G, just in a different position on the guitar neck.

Along with memorizing the scale shapes it is also critical to know what notes you are playing and how to
apply these scales. Too often, guitarists memorize only shapes. Don’t just learn scale shapes, take the time
to also learn the notes, in the end it will make you a better musician.

#1 Box #2 Box
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 #3 Box
2 1 1 1

1 1 1 1 1
3
3 3 3

4 4 4 3 3
4 4 4
3 3 3 4 3

#4 Box #5 Box 4

1 1 1 1 1 1 1

2 2 2 2 2 root notes

3 3 # fingering to utilize

4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

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 Minor Pentatonic - The Expanded Shapes
Let’s build on the minor pentatonic scales that you learned in the previous lesson. We will expand the scale
two frets in each direction combining three box shapes to double the playing area. These expanded scales
will get you playing ACROSS the neck and eliminate the “stuck in the box” scenario.

We are still going to play the same five-note pentatonic scale but these expanded scale produce a more fluid
sound as opposed to staying in just one vertical box. You certainly want to have all the box patterns in your
playing arsenal, but these expanded scales open the pathways and lead guitar avenues. You will utilize these
expanded scales all the time, they are invaluable.

lllustrated below you can see part of three box patterns encapsulated within each of the longer shapes. The
expanded shapes are stretched two frets in each direction combining three adjacent boxes. The expanded I
scale combines boxes 5, 1, and 2 while the expanded II scale combines boxes 3, 4, and 5.

These expanded pentatonic scales double the fret span of the single box patterns. Practice these expanded
scales in different keys and add them to your playing arsenal.

Just like the box patterns these expanded scales are moveable and the root note determines the key. Same
principle applies to finding them in the proper key as with the individual box shapes.

To play these expanded scales Minor Pentatonic Minor Pentatonic

in A minor over all the chords in
Expanded I Scale: Expanded II Scale:
the Gary Moore inspired jam (combines box shapes #5,#1,#2 ) (combines box shapes #3,#4,#5)
track, first find the A notes.

To play the expanded I scale in A 1 1 1 1 1

minor, start with your third finger
on the 5th fret of the low E-string
and play the shape. Fifth fret low
E-string is an A note. 1 1 3 3 1 1
3 1
To play the expanded II scale in
A minor, start with your third 1
finger on the 12th fret of the A-
string and play the shape. 3 3 3 3 3
Twelveth fret A-string is an A
note. 1 1 1 1

To locate these scales fast just

2
find the low root note. The
expanded I uses 3rd finger root
on the low E-string and the 3 3 3 3
expanded II uses 3rd finger root
on the A-string. Find the root
notes and blast away from there!

Practice in all keys and over jam root notes

tracks - keep on rocking!
# fingering to utilize

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 Minor Pentatonic & Blues- The Five Box Shapes
Now we will add one note to the minor pentatonic scale and turn it into the six-note blues scale. Pentatonic &
blues scales are the most commonly used scales in most genres of music.

We can add the flat 5, (b5), or blue note to the pentatonic scale, making it a six-note scale called the blues
scale. That b5, or blue note, adds a lot of tension and color to the scale. These are “must-know” scales
especially for blues and rock so be sure to memorize them add them to your playing arsenal.

Most of the time when soloing with minor pentatonic scales you can also use the blues scale. To be safe, at
first, use the blue note more in passing for color, don’t hang on it too long. Hanging on that flat five too long
can sound a bit dissonant. It’s a great note though, so experiment with it and let your ear guide you.

The five box shapes illustrated below cover the entire neck. These five positions are the architecture to build
licks and runs as well as to connect into longer expanded scales. To work freely across the entire neck you
will want to memorize all five positions as well as the two expanded scales illustrated on the next page.

These scale shapes are moveable. The key is determined by the root notes illustrated in black. For example,
if you want to solo in A minor pentatonic & blues over all the chords in the Am Moore inspired track then play
box #1 using your first finger starting at the 5th fret on the low E-string. Fifth fret low-E string is an A note.
That makes the scale an A minor pentatonic & blues scale consisting of the notes A, C, D, Eb, E, G.

Remember that along with memorizing the scale shapes it is also critical to know what notes you are playing.
Too often, guitarists memorize only shapes and forget what notes they are actually playing. Don’t just learn
scale shapes, take the time to also learn the notes. In the end it will make you a better musician.

To avoid getting stuck in one position, be sure to learn ALL the positions and practice them in different keys.

#1 Box #2 Box #3 Box

1 1 1 1
1 1 1 1 1 1

2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
2

3 2 2
3 3 3
4 4 4 3 3 3 3 3 4 3
4 4 4 4
4 4 4

#4 Box #5 Box
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
root notes
2 2 2 2 2 2
blue notes (b5)
3 3 3
# fingering to utilize

4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

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 Minor Pentatonic & Blues- The Expanded Shapes
Let’s build on the minor pentatonic & blues scale that you learned in the previous lesson. Now we will expand
the scale two frets in each direction thus combining three box shapes and doubling the playing area. These
expanded scales will get you playing ACROSS the neck and eliminate being “stuck in the box”.

We are still going to play the same six-note scale. However, the expanded scales exude a much more fluid
sound that set up additional lick opportunities. You certainly want to have all the box patterns in your playing
arsenal, but these expanded scales really open the pathways and lead guitar avenues. You will utilize these
expanded scales all the time, they are invaluable.

Illustrated below you can see part of three box patterns encapsulated within each longer shape. The shape is
expanded two frets in each direction combining three adjacent boxes. The expanded I scale combines boxes
5, 1, and 2 while the expanded II scale combines boxes 3, 4, and 5.

These expanded blues scales double the fret span of the box patterns. Practice these in different keys over
jam tracks and add them to your playing arsenal.

Like the box patterns these expanded scales are moveable with the root note determining the key.

Same principle applies to finding

the expanded scales in the Minor Pentatonic & Minor Pentatonic &
proper key. To play these in A Blues Expanded I Scale: Blues Expanded II Scale:
minor over all the chords in the (combines box shapes #5,#1,#2 ) (combines box shapes #3,#4,#5)
Moore inspired A minor jam, first
find the A notes. 1 1 1 1 1

To play the expanded I scale in A

minor, start with your third finger 2
on the 5th fret of the low E-string
and play the shape. Fifth fret low 3 1 1 1 3 3 1 1
E-string is an A note.
2 2 1
To play the expanded II scale in
A minor, start with your third
finger on the 12th fret of the A- 3 3 3 3 3
string and play the shape. Fret
twelve on the A-string is an A 1 1 1 1 1
note.
2 2
To locate these scales fast find
the low root note. The expanded 3 3 3
3
I uses 3rd finger root on the low
E-string and the expanded II
uses 3rd finger root on the A- 4
string. Find the root notes and
blast away from there - enjoy! root notes

blue notes (b5)

# fingering to utilize

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 Minor Key Soloing Theory
Since the Moore inspired Jam Track is in minor key its important to
examine some minor key solo theory. Most of the time when jamming you
will be soloing in either minor key or major key.

Throughout the coinciding video lessons and this eBook we are mainly
examining when to utilize minor pentatonic & blues, relative major scales,
the Aeolian mode, and the Dorian mode.

Let’s first discuss minor key soloing with what “relates to all”. When
soloing in minor key, minor pentatonic and blues should be your default
When soloing in minor
setting. In a minor key progression, you can utilize minor pentatonic and
blues over all the chords as it “relates to all”, (unless there is a major V key you can often use a
chord). minor mode over all the
chords. Use Aeolian
When soloing in minor key usually a minor mode also “relates to all”, Mode UNLESS the IV
usually Aeolian or Dorian. To know which one to play over all the chords
chord is major or the ii
there is one principle that you need to memorize:
chord is minor, then use
**When playing over all the chords in minor key, use the the Dorian Mode.
AEOLIAN mode…UNLESS the IV chord is major or the ii chord
is minor, then use the DORIAN mode.
So in minor key over all the chords think minor pentatonic & blues as well Analyze the chords to
as Aeolian unless you see a major IV or minor ii chord. An exception to
determine the soloing
this rule is if there is a major V chord, then you can try using the Harmonic
Minor Scale over just the major V chord. avenues. Its the
CHORDS that give the
There is only a one note difference between the Dorian and Aeolian full roadmap to the
modes - the sixth. Aeolian has a b6 while Dorian has a major 6th: various soloing options.
AEOLIAN MODE: 1, 2, b3, 4, 5, b6, b7

DORIAN MODE: 1, 2, b3, 4, 5, 6, b7

If you hit the wrong sixth note over the corresponding chord it will sound
sour, so it’s super important you play the right mode over all the chords.

Remember we are talking about playing over all the chords in a minor key
progression, playing what “relates to all”.

One critical key in unlocking all the potential of these scales and modes is
in learning their interval structure and memorizing the key points listed
throughout this eBook. This way you will know when it is appropriate to
apply each in a given soloing or improvisation scenario.

Another key is listening and studying the relationships between chords

and scales and understanding which mood or emotion you want to apply.
Its all about the sounds and what emotion and mood you want to get
across in your playing.

Thats the beauty of the modes, each have their own unique mood. More
on that later in this eBook, stay tuned!
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 The Major Pentatonic Scale
The major pentatonic scale is a five-note scale consisting of five notes from the major scale. The intervals
are 1, 2, 3, 5, 6. You do not play the 4th and 7th degrees of the major scale. This incredibly useful scale
produces a sweet, happy, major sound.

Major pentatonic often works over all the chords in major key when playing what “relates to all”. Also, utilize
major pentatonic over most major type chords when treating each chord as a “separate event”. Over the
Moore inspired jam track try playing G major pentatonic over the G7 chord, and E major pentatonic over the
E7 chord chord.

You can locate the major pentatonic scale all over the neck by going through the minor pentatonic. You won’t
have to memorize a whole new batch of scale shapes for major pentatonic. We will use the concept of major
and relative minor to easily tackle major pentatonic scales across the neck.

For every major key there is a relative minor key with exactly the same notes. We will use this to help find
where these major pentatonic scales “live” on the fretboard. Minor pentatonic lives a minor 3rd, or three frets
away, below the major pentatonic.

Illustrated below is the “basic box shape” D major pentatonic. Find it easily by using your fourth finger on the
root note low E-string. It’s relative minor, B minor pentatonic is illustrated on the right. D major pentatonic
scales can also be viewed as B minor pentatonic scales. Both scales consist of the same notes D,E,F#,A,
and B. There are lots of ways to look at these, personally I think of pentatonics more in terms of minor.

The starting and emphasis notes determine which scale you will be playing. D major pentatonic and B minor
pentatonic consist of the same notes, just different starting and emphasis notes. It all comes down to what
notes you are emphasizing, emphasis is critical.

Play both scales starting and ending with the roots. Listen how the major pentatonic is sweet and happy
sounding when starting on and emphasizing the D notes. Play the same shape but start and end on the B
notes and you get the darker, bluesy minor pentatonic scale. Same notes, just different start and emphasis
points, and you have two very different sounding scales.

One scale gives you the sweet, happy major sound while the other gives you the dark, bluesy minor sound.
Using the Moore inspired jam track try playing minor pentatonic over the minor chords and major pentatonic
over the major chords. Be sure to change scales as the chords change and listen for the sound differences
between the major and minor - and get lost in the fun!

D Major Pentatonic box B Minor Pentatonic basic

shape. Notes D,E,F#,A,B box shape. Notes B,D,E,F#,A

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
7th fret 7th fret

3 3 3 3 3 3

4 4 4 4 4 4

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 The Major Pentatonic Scale - Key Points

The major pentatonic scale is constructed from five notes of the major
scale. This is similar to how the minor pentatonic scale is constructed
from five notes of the natural minor scale, (see below table).

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 = major scale
1 2 3 5 6 = major pentatonic scale

1 2 b3 4 5 b6 b7 = natural minor scale

1 b3 4 5 b7 = minor pentatonic scale For every major key there
is a relative minor key with
exactly the same notes.
Remember that you can find all the major pentatonics by going through
the relative minor pentatonic scales. Just flip the minor pentatonic
shapes to their relative major pentatonic and change emphasis notes.
Here are all the major keys and their corresponding relative minors:
When soloing in major key
A major = F# minor Bb major = G minor B major = G# minor use major pentatonic over
C major = A minor C# major = Bb minor D major = B minor all the chords when playing
Ebmajor = C minor E major = C# minor F major = D minor what “relates to all”. Also
F# major = Eb minor G major = E minor G# major = F minor
over any major type chord
For that sweet major pentatonic sound utilize all of your minor when treating each chord as
pentatonic scales, but emphasize the root major. For example, when a “separate event”.
playing in D major pentatonic think of the relative minor, B minor
pentatonic. Just start and emphasize on the D notes, not the B notes,
to sound major.
Find all the major pentatonic
The blue note does not always apply to major pentatonic and, at times, scales by going through the
can sound sour. Experiment with it and see how it sounds to your ears. relative minor pentatonic
scales. Memorize your
The major pentatonic lives three frets ahead of the minor pentatonic.
For example, if you want to play in D major pentatonic put your pinky majors and corresponding
finger on the D note 10th fret low E-string. Using one finger per fret the relative minors.
relative minor will always be three frets back.

Your first finger will always fall on the relative minor. In this case the B
note at the 7th fret of the low E-string. Find the relative minor of any
major using this device.

There is not much room for error when soloing in major key as sour
notes can really stick out. You also can’t slur passing tones like when
when using minor pentatonic. Be careful with your note choices and let
your ear help guide you. Practice these scales in all keys and listen for
the sound differences between minor and major, its all about the mood,
emphasis notes, and the sounds.

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 The Major Scale
All music theory compares back to the major scale. You are probably familiar with the sound of the major
scale – doe, re, me, fa, so, la, ti, doe. We all sang that song endless times in elementary school. There are
many different fingerings and ways to play major scales all over the guitar neck.

Below is a system of six major scales. With all six memorized, you can utilize the entire guitar neck. The
scales overlap each other and on the next page you will learn to link these scales together.

The major scale is constructed from seven notes built from the scale degrees of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. Memorize
the scales one at a time. Take your time learning them, perhaps chipping away a little each day. As you
move through each scale make a mental note of when you hit the root notes, illustrated in black.

The key signature for each scale is determined by its root note. First learn the scales below in the key of G
major. The scales line up nicely in G so G major is a good place to start. To play the #1 scale in G major put
your 2nd finger on the 3rd fret on the low E string, G note, and play the shape. You will now be playing a G
major scale which consists of the seven notes G, A, B, C, D, E, and F#.

To play scale #2 in G put your first finger on the G note on the low E string at the 3rd fret and play the shape.
These scales can be moved up and down the guitar neck and should be practiced in all keys. Know your
major scales cold and then you will also know all the modes of the major scale. More on that to come later in
this eBook, stay tuned.

#1 #2 #3 Box
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 2 2 1 1

3 3 2 2 2 2 1 1

4 4 4 4 4 4 3 3 4 4 3 3

4 4 4 4 3 3 4 4 4

4 4

#4 #5 #6
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

2 2 2 1 1 1 1

3 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1

4 4 4 4 4 3 2

4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 3

4 4
root notes # fingering to utilize

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 Major Scale Links
Now that you know six major scales from the previous lesson let’s link them together and play them across
the neck. These links help view the entire neck as one big scale.

Below are two examples of three octave major scale links that combine three shapes. These are incredibly
useful and are easy to play. Both utilize easy to remember repeated fingerings. These scale links help you to
practice playing laterally across the neck. Shift with your first finger for both these examples when you get to
the D and the B strings. Shift up a whole step, two frets, with the first finger for the 1-1 finger combination.
Practice these links in all keys, they are super useful.

Link 1 utilizes 1-2-4 fingering to play the entire scale link. Shift up with the first finger as indicated. Link 2
utilizes 1-3-4 fingering to play the entire scale link. Again, shift up with the first finger as indicated. Be sure to
always make mental notes when passing through root notes. Just like the other scales we have discussed in
thie eBook, these scale links are moveable with the root note determining the key.

To locate these scales fast, first find the low root note. To play these links in G major, first find the G notes. To
play the Link 1 in G major, start with your 2nd finger on the 3rd fret of the low E-string and play the shape.
Third fret low E-string is a G note.

To play Link 2 in G major, start

with your 4th finger on the 15th Three-Octave Three-Octave
fret of the low E-string and play Major Scale Link 1 Major Scale Link 2:
the shape. The 15th fret low E- (links scales shapes #1,#2,#4 ) (combines box shapes #6,#1,#2)
string is a G note.
1 1 1 1 1 1
Find the root notes and blast
away from there! Use these links
in the key of Cmajor, (A minor), 2 2
to play over the Gary Moore
inspired jam track. 1 1 3 3 1 1

The Moore inspired track is in A 4 4 1 4 1

2 2 4
minor so you can utilize these
major scales in the parent scale
3 3
of C major.

Convert both back to the parent 4 4 1 1 4 4 1 1

scale of C major and start on and
emphasize the A notes for A 2 2
Aeolian. Remember, its all about
emphasis and mood. 3 3

More to come on that in the

“Modes” lessons coming up next 4 4 4 4
in this eBook.

root notes

# fingering to utilize

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 The Modes Of The Major Scale - Overview
There are seven modes of the major scale and each one has its own “mood”,
or distinct sound. Knowing the modes gives you the ability to create various
moods and textures. They also open the door to additional soloing options.
Modal playing is often thought as a very abstract and mysterious entity. One
that requires a black belt in music theory to understand. That is not true and
you can be playing modally with just a little coaching and practice.
Think of the Modes
Utilizing the modes will generate interval structures that are different than the
major scale and therefore produce unique sound qualities. simply as variations of
the major scale.
Each mode has its own unique sound or “mood” due to its unique interval
structure. Some modes are more major sounding and some more minor
sounding. My modal methodology requires that you first know your major
scales. We will get to all seven modes through the major scales. Anytime you play a major
scale and start on and
Think of the modes as being variations of the major scale. All you will be
doing is starting on and emphasizing a note in the major scale other than the emphasize a note other
root note. than the root, you are
playing in the modes.
There are seven notes in the major scale and each one corresponds with a
different mode. So there are seven modes of the major scale and they always
appear in this order: Ionian, Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian, Aeolian,
and Locrian. Memorize the mode names and their order. The order of the
modes is very important. Each mode has its own
Learn the major scales and how to link them as they are diagrammed out in unique sound or “mood”
this eBook. Once you know your major scales you don’t have to learn a whole due to the unique interval
new set of scales for each mode. You will then know all the modes of the structure of each mode.
major scale because you will be using those same major scale shapes to play
all the modes.
You will be starting on any of the six shapes on a note other than its root.
Keep in mind it’s all about the mood or distinct sound of each mode - that’s Some modes are more
the key, it’s all about the sounds. major sounding and
Besides knowing your major scale, (Ionian Mode), get proficient with the some more minor
Aeolian Mode, Dorian Mode, and then Mixolydian mode. These three modes sounding.
are used most often in blues and rock. We will focus on these modes in the
coinciding video lessons and throughout this eBook.
Practice A Aeolian, (C major), over the Gary Moore inspired track as per the
video lessons. Try another mode over one of the chords when treating each
chord as a “separate event”. See what sounds best to your ears.

THE SEVEN MODES OF THE MAJOR SCALE

1st mode - Ionian (same as the Major scale)
2nd mode – Dorian (same as Aeolian but with a raised 6th)
3rd mode - Phrygian (same as Aeolian but with a b2nd)
4th mode – Lydian (same as Ionian but with a #4th)
5th mode – Mixolydian (same as Ionian but with a b7th)
6th mode – Aeolian (same as Natural Minor)
7th mode – Locrian (dissonant, same as Phrygian with a b5th)

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 The Modes Of The Major Scale - Application 1
The key to understanding the modes is to look at the interval structure that
defines each mode and then match them with corresponding chords and
progressions. Let’s discuss each mode and how to apply them.
With any mode or scale it’s not enough just to know the scale, you also
have to know how to use it and apply it in a musical situation.

Many of the modes are very similar in their structure. Some have just one
note difference. But these slight differences create unique moods and With any mode or scale
textures. Each mode has its’ own unique mood and tone. it’s not enough just to
The table below shows each mode and its interval structure. The last know the scale shape,
column denotes which modes are considered major modes and which are you also have to know
considered minor modes. how to use it and apply it
in a musical situation.
Memorize which are the major modes, Ionian, Lydian, and Mixolydian, and
which are the minor modes, Dorian, Phrygian, Aeolian, and Locrian.
Knowing this will help guide you to utilizing the correct mode over a given
chord or progression. Memorize which are the
major modes - Ionian,
Lydian, and Mixolydian,
#mode name intervals type of mode and which are the minor
1 Ionian 1,2,3,4,5,6,7 major mode modes - Dorian, Aeolian,
2 Dorian 1,2,b3,4,5,6,b7 minor mode* Phrygian, and Locrian.
3 Phrygian 1,b2,b3,4,5,b6,b7 minor mode
4 Lydian 1,2,3,#4,5,6,7 major mode
Each mode has its own
5 Mixolydian 1,2,3,4,5,6,b7 major mode unique mood and tone.
6 Aeolian 1,2,b3,4,5,b6,b7 minor mode
7 Locrian 1,b2,b3,4,b5,b6,b7 minor mode

*Dorian is considered a minor mode because it has strong elements of

minor (b3, b7), along with major (2,6). However, it can be played in some
major key progressions.

Dorian works great over all the chords in major key I-IV-V shuffle, blues, or
swing type progressions. For those type progressions you can also use
minor pentatonic for that minor bluesy sound, major pentatonic for that
sweet major sound, or combine elements of both for the Dorian sound.

Phrygian can also be used in some major key progressions that have a b2
chord. So, there is lots of room for creativity with the modes.

Like with many lead guitar avenues, you have to use your discretion and
find what sounds best to your ears. Experiment and be creative when
utilizing the modes and practice over jam tracks. Listen for which modes
sound best to your ears.

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 The Modes Of The Major Scale - Application 2

KEY POINTS TO APPLYING THE MODES:

1. Understand your choices when soloing and improvising. You can solo
over the entire chord progression with what “relates to all”, or play over
each chord independently, treating each chord as a “separate event”.

2. Know and analyze the chords you are playing over. The chords provide
the complete roadmap to what you can utilize for soloing. Just knowing the
key signature is not enough. Know what chords are in the progression, Understand your options
and then analyze them to determine what scales, modes, and landing when soloing and
notes to utilize. improvising. Know and
analyze the chords you
are playing over.
The “ACE” principle for modal playing:
Memorize these three steps for utilizing the modes (the “ACE” principle):
To apply the modes just
1. ANALYZE the chords and/or the progression to get the roadmap for remember “ACE” –
which modes you can utilize. Analyze, Convert,
2. Once you determine which mode or modes to use, CONVERT that Emphasize.
mode back to its mother or parent major key.

3. Play the mode using the parent major scale patterns but shift to and
EMPHASIZE the root of the mode. Remember that it’s all
about MOOD and
EMPHASIS when playing
This is a very systematic and methodical approach to analyzing chords to in the modes.
determine soloing options. Over time your ear will take you to the right
notes and this whole process will be more organic. However, at the start
there is value in analyzing chords and progressions while honing your
skills to a sharp edge.

These three steps are absolutely critical to your success playing in the
modes. This will take a good amount of practice, chip away a little each
day and you will get it. Remember you are creating a mood - feel it!

KEY PRACTICE: At first try playing a mode over the whole progression or
what relates to all the chords. Try A Aeolian, (C Major), over the Gary
Moore inspired jam track.

Eventually you will want to try and treat each chord as a separate event
and play a different mode over each chord. Get creative and give it a try.

Take your time, don’t overwhelm yourself, and practice utilizing jam tracks.
Really hone in and listen for the chord changes and the moods you create
with the different modes, its all about the sounds.

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 The Modes Of The Major Scale - Aeolian
The Aeolian Mode is a seven-note scale often used in blues, rock and many
other musical genres. It is also called Natural Minor or Pure Minor. Aeolian is
considered a minor mode and is always the 6th mode in any major key.

Aeolian produces a sad, dark, and mournful sound that is different than minor
pentatonic and Dorian. It adds melodic half steps and additional lick and
string bending opportunities. The scale degrees are 1, 2, b3, 4, 5, b6, and b7.

Play this mode over minor chords when treating each chord as a “separate Aeolian is always the 6th
event”. Also utilize Aeolian over ALL the chords in a minor key jam UNLESS
the IV chord is major or the ii chord is minor.
mode of any major key.

We determined previously that A Aeolian works over the chords in the Gary
Moore inspired jam track as it “relates to all”. Remember, Aeolian is the 6th
mode. To play in A Aeolian ask yourself what major scale’s sixth note is an Starting on and
A? The answer is C. The sixth note of a C major scale is an A note. emphasizing the 6th
To play in A Aeolian start on the sixth note in a C major scale and play from note of any major
the A note to the A note and you have A Aeolian. As you can see below, C
major and A Aeolian are both constructed from the same notes.
scale produces the
Aeolian Mode.
C Major scale – C, D, E, F, G, A, B
A Aeolian scale - A, B, C, D, E, F, G
major and relative minor

Aeolian sounds great when played over minor type chords. By treating each Aeolian is also called
chord as a “separate event” you can also try D Aeolian, (F major), over just Natural Minor or Pure
the Dm chord in the Moore inspired track.
Minor.
Remember, it’s all about MOOD and EMPHASIS when playing in the modes.
Which note you start on and emphasize give you the different moods and
sound textures of each mode.
Remember, it’s all about
Below are two common shapes for Aeolian. One has the low root note on the
low E-string and the other has the low root on the A-string. Find these
MOOD and EMPHASIS
patterns fast by using your first finger on the low root. Start with these, but when playing in the
learn all the shapes to play Aeolian across the whole neck as per the major modes.
scale lessons in this eBook.

Low E-string root A-string root

(first finger) (first finger)

1 1 1 1 1 1

1 1 1 2 1 1 2 2

2 3 3 3

3 3 3 4 3 4 4 4 4

4 4 4 4 root note fingering

Copyright © 2014 Next Level Guitar Inc. Unauthorized replication or distribution prohibited 23 of 27
 The Modes Of The Major Scale - Dorian
The Dorian Mode is a seven-note scale often used in blues, rock, and many
other musical genres. Dorian is considered a minor mode and is always the
2nd mode in any major key.

Dorian produces a mystical, minor sound that is a bit sweeter than Aeolian.
The Dorian scale degrees are 1, 2, b3, 4, 5, 6, and b7. There is only one note
difference between Dorian and Aeolian - the 6th.

Utilize Dorian over all the chords in a minor key jam when there is a major IV
chord or a minor ii chord. You can also use Dorian over minor type chords
when treating each chord as a “separate event” - let’s try that now. Dorian is always the 2nd
Try Dorian over each minor chord in the Gary Moore inspired jam track. Try A mode of any major key.
Dorian over the Am chord and D Dorian over the D minor chord.

Remember that Dorian is the 2nd mode in any major key. To play in A Dorian
the question is what major scale’s 2nd note is an A note? The answer is G Starting on and
major. A Dorian would be converted back to its parent scale of G major.
emphasizing the 2nd
To play in A Dorian start on the 2nd note in a G major scale and play from the note of any major
A note till the next A note and you have A Dorian. You are playing a G major
scale from the A to the A and voila’, you have A Dorian. scale produces the
Dorian Mode.
Playing G major scales starting on the 2nd note and emphasizing the A
notes, not the G notes, produces A Dorian. This establishes the tonal center
as A. Both G major and A Dorian are constructed from the same notes.
G Major scale – G, A, B, C, D, E, F# Dorian has one note
A Dorian scale - A, B, C, D, E, F#, G difference than Aeolian.
Repeat the same steps for the D minor chord and try D Dorian over the D Dorian has a natural 6th
minor chord. D Dorian would be converted back to its parent scale of C major. while Aeolian has a b6.
Remember when soloing over each chord as a separate event to listen for the Dorian has a bit more
changes underneath your soloing and change modes as the chords change. sweeter mystical sound
than Aeolian.
Below are two common shapes for Dorian. One has the low root note on the
low E-string and the other has the low root on the A-string. Find these
patterns fast using your first finger on the low root. Start with these but learn
all the shapes to play Dorian across the neck as in the major scale lessons
taught earlier in this eBook.

Low E-string root A-string root

(first finger) (first finger)

1 1 1

1 1 2 2 1 1 1 1 2 1 1

3 3 4 4 3 3 3 3 4 3

4 4 4 4 4 4
root note fingering

#
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Copyright © 2014 Next Level Guitar Inc. Unauthorized replication or distribution prohibited
 The Modes Of The Major Scale - Mixolydian
The Mixolydian Mode is a seven-note scale often used in blues, rock, and
jazz. Mixolydian is considered a major mode and is always the 5th mode in
any major key. Often its the mode of choice utilized over dominant chords.

Mixolydian is basically a major scale, (Ionian Mode), but with a b7. The scale
degrees are 1,2,3,4,5,6,b7. Play this mode over dominant chords like 7ths
and 9th chords when treating each chord as a “separate event”.

In the Moore inspired jam track there are two dominant 7th chords, G7 and Mixolydian is always the
E7. Treat each as a “separate event” and use Mixolydian over each chord. 5th mode of any major key.
Utilize G Mixolydian over the G7 chord and E Mixoydian over the E7 chord.
Remember, Mixolydian is the 5th mode and the key is to shift the tonal center
to the root of the mode. To play in G Mixolydian ask yourself what major
scale’s fifth note is a G? The answer is C. The fifth note of a C major scale is Starting on and
a G note. Play C major scales over the G7 chord but emphasize the G notes
for G Mixolydian. C major and G Mixolydian consist of the same notes:
emphasizing the 5th
note of any major
C Major scale – C, D, E, F, G, A, B
G Mixolydian - G, A, B, C, D, E, F scale produces the
Try E Mixolydian over the E7 chord. To play in E Mixolydian ask yourself what Mixolydian Mode.
major scale’s fifth note is a E? The answer is A. The fifth note of a A major
scale is an E note. Play A major scales over the E7 chord but emphasize the
E notes. A major and E Mixolydian consist of the same notes.
Mixolydian is often the
Remember, it’s all about MOOD and EMPHASIS when playing in the modes.
Which note you start on and emphasize produces the different moods and
mode of choice over
sound textures of each mode. dominant 7th chords.
Below are two common shapes for Mixolydian. One has the low root note on
the low E-string and the other has the low root on the A-string. Find these
patterns fast by using your first finger on the low root. Remember, it’s all about
Don’t think of “shapes” or “positions” as modes. Get in the habit of looking at
MOOD and EMPHASIS
the entire fretboard as the vehicle for the mode, not just a certain position. Try when playing in the
to learn the mode and its interval structure across the entire fretboard. Start modes.
with the scales below, but learn all the positions to play Mixolydian across the
entire neck as per the major scale lessons in this eBook.

Low E-string root A string root

first finger first finger
1 1 1 1 1 1

2 2 2 2 1 1 2 2 2 1 1

2 2 2

4 4 4 4 3 4 4 4

4 4 4 4

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Copyright © 2014 Next Level Guitar Inc. Unauthorized replication or distribution prohibited
 Soloing Review Tips
KEY POINTS TO DETERMINE SOLOING AVENUES:
1. Determine the key signature - Most of the time you will be soloing in
minor key or major key. Knowing the key is the first step. Even when you
are noodling around on the guitar, always know what key you are playing.

Many guitarists make the mistake of just looking solely at the key – that
won’t give you all the needed information. It’s the the chords that
give the complete
2. Analyze the chord progression - It’s the chords that give you the roadmap to all the soloing
complete roadmap to what you can utilize for soloing and improvisation. and improvisation
Analyzing the chords is critical to get the full lead guitar picture. Knowing
the key is only part of the equation. The chords provide the road map for
options.
what scales, modes, and arpeggios you will want to utilize. The chords
also point to the strong notes to land on, resolve to, and emphasize.
Take the listener on a
musical journey - draw
Remember that you can mix soloing techniques. Mix what “relates to all” them into your solo and
with treating each chord as a “separate event”. Treat each chord as a have them latch onto
“separate event“, then switch it up and play what “relates to all”.
what you are playing.
At times you can also use both major and minor scale elements as well as
modal playing. In those examples you can throw a bunch of different
soloing applications into the soup.
Even when you are just
A critical key in unlocking all the potential of these scales and modes is in noodling around on the
learning their interval structure and listening to the mood of each one and guitar, always know what
how it sounds over a given chord. This way you will know when it is key you are playing in.
appropriate to apply each in a given soloing or improvisation scenario.

Two goals of lead guitar playing:

1. Compliment the song – in the end, no matter how great a solo is, it’s
the song that will be remembered.

2. Draw people into your solo – you want the listener to latch onto what
you are playing and to be on the edge of their seat wondering, “what will
they play next?”

Take the listener on a musical journey with ups and downs, great emotion,
and passion. Play from the heart while telling a story, and always be aware
of melody.

At times, many guitarists forget these points and are off soloing in their
own “little world”. They forget about the song, the chord changes, and
what the other musicians in their band are doing. When this happens, the
song suffers, or the band has to “reel” the guitarist back into the groove.

Copyright © 2014 Next Level Guitar Inc. Unauthorized replication or distribution prohibited 26 of 27
I hope this eBook, coinciding video lessons, and jam tracks help you along in your guitar journey. As
a teacher my goal is to educate, empower, and inspire students to help them reach their guitar and
musical goals.

I wish you the best in all your musical endeavors. Please feel free to email me any questions at the
email address listed below. Keep up all the hard work on that guitar and remember that your guitar
playing is an evolution. It takes time, patience, and dedication. Go after your dreams like your life
depends on it……because it does!

Take care, rock on, and swing for the fences!

-David Taub, co-creator
Next Level Guitar Inc.

Check out our full-on video instructional website at:

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The site has over 1600 video lessons, written lessons, jam tracks, and much more! Its a complete
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