Question:
I've been playing guitar for about three years but so far have not learned any scales, only chords. I now want to start really playing the guitar and learn scales. Anyone got some good advice about the best scales to start with and where i could get tab for them
Answer:
You are right to include scales in your daily routine. If you have never played them before, start with the open string scales. The ones right at the nut of the neck. I would start with the key of C and move around the Circle of Fifths. It ties lots of things together this way. If you do try them, do not allow yourself to stop for at least two weeks. It takes a few weeks for the muscles in your hands to sync up and provide big benefits. They will, do not stop. Do not mistake the beginner scales (the ones around the nut of the neck) as for beginners only. You will use them year after year and they are for advanced players too. If you are looking for a scale to start with, here is a url that will provide a free animated .gif of a C scale. It is presented visually and very easy to use. If you look around, you will also find chords to go with this scale. Click the picture of the book and you should find it. http://www.uncletim.com/utfy-scale.htm In the interest of full disclosure, this is my web stite and I write the books there. I am a big believer in scales as I have seen what they will do (for you) for many years now. They work. They work great! If you are looking for scales, check out Uncle Tim's First Year. It will give you all the first position scales for pentatonic and diatonic keys. They are all presented visually. You do not need to read music. You will also get a giant dose of theory in a very easy to understand format. This book even comes with a lifetime guarantee. It's only 10 dollars. If you want to learn advanced scales check out Uncle Tim's Building Blocks. You will get every diatonic and pentatonic scale for the entire guitar presented visually. Easy, easy, easy. I wrote this book to be very easy to understand and a long term resourse. Again you will learn alot about scales and theory. The C. F. Martin Guitar Co. has sold this book at their factory store for over 4 years.
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