Modes and Scales Guitar Lesson
Modes and Scales
If you are having trouble understanding Brad's lessons pertaining to modes and scales, or if you simply want more information about them, you may find this lesson useful. Brad Henecke explains a different way of comparing modes and scales.
Taught by Brad Henecke in Rock Guitar with Brad Henecke seriesLength: 8:00Difficulty: 3.0 of 5
In the current lesson, Brad presents the modes from a different angle. He compares four scales that you have learned that are all major in quality. Brad relates all of these scales to the key of C major, in order to determine the individual properties and functionalities of each scale.
Ionian or Major Scale
Note: Open the "Supplemental Content" tab for fretboard diagrams of all the scales presented in this lesson. The numbers in circles represent how each scale degree relates to the key signature of C major.
The major scale is the most essential building block used in Western music. Take this time to review the C major scale. It is spelled as follows: C, D, E, F, G, A, B, C. A numeric value can be applied to each note based on its location within the scale. This is referred to as a "scale degree." Make a note of the corresponding scale degree for each note in the scale. They will be used later in the lesson when other scales are referenced.
C: 1st scale degree
D: 2nd
E: 3rd
F: 4th
G: 5th
A: 6th
B: 7th
In this lesson, Brad relates all scales to the key signature of C major because it contains no sharps or flats. This property of the scale makes it easiest to use for comparison purposes.
The Major Pentatonic Scale
The first scale Brad references is the C major pentatonic scale. He chooses this scale first, because it is easiest for beginning players to remember and apply to a practical, musical context. Take this time to review the pattern and spelling of this scale. Essentially, the major pentatonic scale eliminates notes that cause tension within the major scale. The C major pentatonic scale is spelled as follows: C, D, E, G, A, C. If we analyze these notes in terms of how they relate to the key of C major, we can deduce that the major pentatonic scale consists of scale degrees 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6.
The Lydian Mode
The C Lydian mode is identical to the C major scale with one exception. In relation to the C major scale, the Lydian mode features a raised 4th scale degree. This makes the fourth note in the scale F# instead of F natural. Here's a breakdown of the scale degrees contained within C Lydian:
C: 1
D: 2
E: 3
F#: #4
G: 5
A: 6
B: 7
Raising the fourth scale degree has a very specific effect. The note a perfect fourth above the root of a chord has a very dissonant sound. For example, an F natural will sound terrible when played against a C major triad. This is because the F clashes with the third of the chord, E. However, the raised 4th is considered to be a consonant tone when played over a major chord.
The Mixolydian Mode
In comparison to the major scale, the Mixolydian mode features a b7 scale degree. Here are all the scale degrees for this mode:
C: 1
D: 2
E: 3
F: 4
G: 5
A: 6
Bb: b7
Due to the b7 degree, the Mixolydian mode is an ideal choice when playing over dominant chords. A C7 chord is spelled C, E, G, Bb. As you can see, all the notes in this chord are found within the C Mixolydian Mode. On the other hand, the major scale features a natural seventh scale degree. This makes it an ideal choice when playing over a MA7 chord. CMA7 is spelled C, E, G, B. All of these notes are contained within the C major scale.
Supplemental Learning Material
Rock Guitar with Brad Henecke
Found in our Beginner Lesson SetsIn this Phase 2 series Brad Henecke will school you in the art of rock guitar. You will not only learn how to play some of your favorite songs in this series, but you will also learn how to create your own.
Lesson 1
Basic Rock Guitar
This lesson covers the absolute basics of rock guitar. Learn about the electric guitar, pickups, amplifiers, changing strings, and more.
Length: 52:09 Difficulty: 0.5 Members Only
Learning Chords
The first step of your rock guitar experience is learning some of the more popular chords and that is what this lesson is all about.
Length: 42:30 Difficulty: 1.0 Members Only
Barre Chords and More
Brad Henecke introduces common strumming patterns and barre chords.
Length: 42:23 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Your First Song
In this lesson Brad covers some of the more advanced barre chord shapes. He applies these shapes to the song "Hotel California."
Length: 41:31 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Blues and Scales
Rock has its roots in the blues. Brad helps you explore the wonderful world of blues in this lesson. He also covers some chord theory.
Length: 48:14 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Tricks and Lead
This lesson is all about specific techniques used by lead guitarists.
Length: 52:02 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Jammin With Scales
This lesson details how to improvise with the blues scale.
Length: 27:27 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
3 Songs
In this fun lesson, Brad Henecke teaches you riffs from 3 classic rock songs.
Length: 28:28 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Power Chords
Power chords help give rock music that "punch you in the face" feel. Learn basic power chords in this lesson.
Length: 13:22 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
2 New Songs
Are you ready to learn "Ain't Talking About Love" by Van Halen and "You Shook Me All Night Long" by AC/DC? That's what this lesson is all about.
Length: 27:32 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Pentatonic Scale
In this lesson Brad teaches the first pattern of the minor pentatonic scale and explains how it relates to the blues scale.
Length: 14:30 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Second Position
Brad covers the second pattern for both the minor blues and minor pentatonic scales.
Length: 9:07 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Message in a Bottle
Learn the classic rock song "Message in a Bottle."
Length: 10:22 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Third Position
This great lesson covers the 3rd fretboard pattern of the minor pentatonic and minor blues scales.
Length: 7:19 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Colorful Chord Tension
Brad demonstrates how open strings can be added to chord shapes you are already familiar with.
Length: 9:09 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
The 4th Position
Brad covers the 4th pattern of the minor pentatonic and minor blues scales.
Length: 8:28 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Daytripper
In this lesson Brad demonstrates how to play the Beatles song "Daytripper."
Length: 15:21 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
The 5th Position
Brad demonstrates the 5th pattern of the minor pentatonic and minor blues scales. He also discusses practicing and memorizing them.
Length: 13:05 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
"Brown Eyed Girl"
Learn the classic rock song "Brown Eyed Girl" in this episode of Rock Guitar.
Length: 11:23 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Phrasing
Brad introduces you to the importance of phrasing. Quality phrasing is essential when performing any melodic line.
Length: 14:19 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Basics of Tapping
Tapping is an idiomatic guitar technique that offers a unique sound.
Length: 14:34 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Intro to Modes
Learning the modes is essential to the development of your scale vocabulary.
Length: 31:04 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Understanding Chord Shapes
Brad further explains what chord shapes are and how they relate to barre chords.
Length: 10:15 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Natural Harmonics
Learn the right and left hand mechanics involved in playing harmonics.
Length: 13:16 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Advanced Harmonics
Brad covers more advanced harmonic techniques such as harp harmonics, pinch harmonics and tap harmonics.
Length: 16:10 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
The Dorian Mode
Brad moves on in his modal lesson series to explain the Dorian mode. Includes 2 backing tracks.
Length: 22:00 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Phrygian Mode
Brad explains and demonstrates the Phrygian mode.
Length: 13:33 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
The Lydian mode
Brad continues his discussion of the modes. You will learn the Lydian mode in this lesson.
Length: 9:27 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Mixolydian Mode
Brad explains the Mixolydian mode and its practical applications.
Length: 10:00 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
The Aeolian Mode
Continuing with his modal lessons, Brad Henecke teaches the Aeolian mode.
Length: 9:09 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
The Locrian Mode
The final lesson in our modal series covers the Locrian mode.
Length: 9:00 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
The Ace Zone
Brad teaches some licks inspired by Ace Frehley of KISS. Incorporate these licks into your own solos.
Length: 7:18 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Learn Licks
In this lesson Brad Henecke teaches you some fun licks that can be used in your own guitar solos.
Length: 10:00 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Blues Licks
Brad Henecke demonstrates some cool blues licks.
Length: 17:00 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Modes and Scales
Brad Henecke provides an alternate way of comparing modes and scales.
Length: 8:00 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
A Different View
In the last lesson, Brad Henecke compared some scales that are major or dominant in quality. Now, he repeats this process with minor scales.
Length: 7:00 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
One String Scales
This lesson is all about 1 string scales. Learning scales on 1 string is essential to your knowledge of the fretboard.
Length: 8:34 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
One String Ionian Mode
Brad demonstrates a one string version of the Ionian mode. This lesson demonstrates the importance of horizontal scales.
Length: 7:27 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Aeolian Mode on One String
Brad continues his discussion of single string scales. He explains how to play the Aeolian mode across a single string.
Length: 4:11 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Octave Scales
Brad explains how to locate octaves within scale patterns. He demonstrates a cool lick that involves playing simultaneous octaves.
Length: 7:07 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Using Octaves
Brad explains how to use octaves in the context of an exercise. Octaves can also be used to build effective licks.
Length: 5:18 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Harmonic Minor Scale
Brad introduces the harmonic minor scale. He explains how it can be applied to the solo break in "Sweet Child O' Mine."
Length: 7:00 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Learning by Ear
Brad Henecke provides valuable tips regarding the process of learning songs by ear.
Length: 23:00 Difficulty: 3.5 Members Only
Ear Training Game
Improve your ear training by playing "The Tone Is Right" with Brad Henecke.
Length: 29:00 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Diminished Arpeggio
Brad Henecke explains diminished chords and provides a fun diminished arpeggio exercise.
Length: 19:00 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Understanding Time Signatures
Brad Henecke addresses time signatures.
Length: 10:00 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Diminished Chords
Brad Henecke explains the construction of diminished seventh chords. He also provides a diminished chord exercise.
Length: 10:30 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Open G Tuning
Brad Henecke introduces open G tuning in this lesson.
Length: 23:50 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Drop D Tuning
Brad Henecke introduces drop D tuning in this lesson. He explains many advantages of this tuning.
Length: 12:57 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
G Major Pentatonic
Brad Henecke teaches the G major pentatonic scale. He demonstrates all 5 patterns and explains how they can be transposed to any key.
Length: 22:50 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Changing Scales with Chords
In this lesson Brad Henecke talks about changing the pentatonic/blues scales with each chord in a chord progression.
Length: 11:08 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Mixolydian Scale and Chords
Brad will show how to use the Mixolydian scale with a blues chord progression.
Length: 6:56 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Gear and Effects
This lesson is all about gear and effects. Brad begins his discussion with power conditioning and removing hiss from your amplifier. He progresses to discuss a plethora of effects pedals. Brad explores...
Length: 52:48 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
The Wah Pedal
In this lesson, Brad Henecke introduces the wah pedal and demonstrates its many applications.
Length: 15:53 Difficulty: 1.5 Members Only
About Brad Henecke
View Full Biography
Brad Henecke was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa on May 5th of 1963. He has been a fan of music for as long as he & his family can remember. You could always find him running around the farm wailing on his cardboard guitar, pretending to be a member of the rock band KISS. Additional inspiration came during his first concert when he got the chance to see Boston & Sammy Hagar in the early 1970's.
This opened up a whole new world of rock and roll music for him; his parents noticed his growing interest in music and enrolled him into guitar lessons when he was 13.
From there he jumped into two years of lessons at a local music store in Cedar Rapids. After discovering Eddie Van Halen, Brad knew that the
guitar would always be a part of his life. He took his love throughout the city as he played as a pit musician & jammed at parties for friends.
This made him thirsty for more. He enrolled classes at Kirkwood Community College & also took lessons from the one & only Craig-Erickson (www.craig-erickson.com).
His love for music landed him a gig opening for Molly Hatchet in Cedar Rapids with a band called "Slap & Tickle". He has also played in the Greeley
Stampede show for quite a few years with "True North".
Brad is currently playing in Greeley, Colorado with a rock band titled "Ragged Doll". They play a wide variety of music with an emphasis on
classic rock from the 60's to present, with Brad playing electric guitar in the five piece lineup.
He currently jams on his all-time favorite guitar: a Paul Reed Smith Custom 24. Beyond guitar, he plays also plays drums & bass guitar. He has
also been known to thrash a banjo from time to time. He is still actively playing & passing his 31 years of playing experience on to others (you!).
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Member Comments about this Lesson
Discussions with our instructors are just one of the many benefits of becoming a member of JamPlay.brad can clear this up? the charts indicates the 5th and 8th frets,but the charts when you are playing the scales and modes state to start on the 4th and 5th frets. this is confusing.and also can these be transposed into different keys?
Brad, you just presented me a new way to look at modes. Don't know where you are leading but I am following.
Confusing!
Yes indeed, it is confusing, and apparently Brad is not there to answer anything (sorry Brad, but since 2007 i don't see any answer) I personaly think that they are always explaining mode in the most tricky way.... for me, mode is nothing more than from where you do start your major scale !!! like... Mode 1 : c d e f g a b Mode 2 : d e f g a b c mode 3 : e f g a b c d ...etc... So actually... if you know all your boxes of the C major scale (and of course which note is what related the chord you are playing, root, third, 7th, etc), and move them up or down to match the key in which the succession of chords are in... then you're done... Well, actually i'm not sure that i'm 100% right since i'm not a music teacher, but it seems obvious... is there anybody who agree or deny ??? Maybe we can sort that out together !!!
Just wanted to add that ive learned a lot with Brad. He's a really good teacher and good guy!
What chord would you play in the background here in this lesson to hear the different modes?
Hi Brad, A minor penta and A major penta are the same in your lessons, is it normal?
I'm unclear on this: On this chart the "Major Scale Ionian" pattern is the same shape as what we just learned as E Aeolian Mode.... because E is the 6th degree of C. But, why aren't we using the G Ionian shape, sliding the root from the 3rd fret up to the 8th fret?
correction I mean to say --...because C is the 6th degree of E--
Hey Brad, Great lessons. I have a question. why is it that when you are playing the Cmaj Pentatonic scale, the Cmaj scale and the rest of the modes in this lesson do you start on the fifth fret (shape of Amin Pentatonic) and not on the 8th fret where a a C Pentatonic starts....? confused. thanks
Why some of the notes you worte on the board are with numbers and some of them without?
He's indicating the degrees of the scale, relative to the Ionian (major) mode, for one full octave only.
Yeah, I could watch nearly all of Brad's lessons again and pick up something new each time, I love it. :)
Brad, enjoyed the modes and scales lesson!! always finding it good to go back and review that stuff, and i always learn something there that did'nt stick out to me before! thanks again!!! Great lesson!!!