Learn Guitar Scales : The Mixolydian Solos

Article Written By: Nick Dillon

So you want to learn guitar scales and modes, but don't know where to begin? Once you learn the pentatonic scales you can simply add two notes to create the seven modes of the major scale. Getting past the pentatonic scales is often the most challenging task for aspiring lead guitar players. But by knowing how to use the modes your solos will sound diverse and impressive. Let's look at the Mixolydian mode as an example.

As you learn guitar scales, you will realise that a scale is a set of five to seven notes that is defined by the root note. The Mixolydian mode is formed by taking the major scale, and making the fifth note the new root note to start and finish on. The distinct steps or intervals of the major scale are retained, we just start and end on the fifth note. So we now create a new sounding scale called the Mixolydian mode.

A mode is more than just the first and last note of the scale. A mode contains a distinct set of notes defined by their distance from the root note. This actually defines the mode's feel and sound. Regardless of the key, these notes will be seperated by the same intervals or steps.

The Mixolydian mode contains these notes: Root, major 2nd, major 3rd, major 4th, major 5th, major 6th, and flatted 7th. So, if this mode is played in the key of C major, the notes are: G, A, B, C, D, E, and F. The only difference between this mode and the G major scale, is that the major scale has an F sharp. This one note difference gives the Mixolydian mode a more "bluesy" sound by way of the flat 7th.

The "key" describes the central note or tone around which a piece of music is based. The mixolydian mode can be used to solo over the G major chords in the key of C or its relative minor : A minor. The mode can also be used to solo where G is the key in itself.

The Mixolydian Mode is applied to many different styles or genres of music. This mode is often used in rock music to give a solo a melodic, powerful, and bright feel. As an example; Slash of Guns n Roses used this mode for his first two solos in "Sweet Child O Mine". You will also find this mode extensively used in Jazz guitar.

When you learn guitar scales, have a look at the modes. They will help you create dazzling solos by adding more colour and diversity than the simple pentatonic scales. The Mixolydian Mode is a favourite of many guitarists.

About the Author

Learn Guitar Scales the super easy way, and witness your lead guitar playing skills skyrocket in no time at all. For a limited time you can receive your very own FREE E Guide that will fast track your soloing and improvisational skills. Click the link below for your FREE copy now! Pentatonic Guitar Scales

You Can Link Directly to "Learn Guitar Scales : The Mixolydian Solos" by using the url:
http://www.allbestarticles.com//arts-and-entertainment/music/learn-guitar-scales-the-mixolydian-solos.html

This Article Has Been Published on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 and Read 361 Times

Find All Best Articles at http://www.allbestarticles.com

Rating: Not yet rated

Comments

No comments posted.

Add Comment

You do not have permission to comment. If you log in, you may be able to comment.

Related information on Music

Information about new music forms : available over the internet
Booking your Wedding DJ
Profitable deals for buying DJ equipment
Guitar Lessons For Beginners Come In A Discrepancy Of Forms
Book your Wedding DJ with Confidence
Acoustic Guitar Body Basics
Are You Taking The Right Instructions To Play Guitar For Novice?
Guitar Lessons And Methods To Get The Most Help From Them
Learn To Play Guitar Songs By Taking A Few Quick Tips
How The Headsets Will Help You To Improve Your Productivity
Learn Guitar Scales : The Mixolydian Solos
How you can duplicate cds
Checklist for your Wedding Band or Singer
Key Factors To Take into Account When Looking For Acoustic Guitar Strings
Find Wedding Entertainers Online
How You Can Learn Classical Guitar And A Brief History Of The Guitar
Fan Based Marketing For Independent Bands
Strategies for Selling CDs Online
Why Music Is Important For Child Development
Buy Sheet Music Online at Low Prices
Personalized Songs: A Magnificent Way to Grace Your Occasion
How to Choose the Right Guitar for You
3 Reasons to take Music and Dance at the Same School
Things To Keep In Mind When You Require A Karaoke Disco Hire Brent
DJs really know how to rock with the music