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From this moment on, we will dedicate our studies to the pentatonic scales from a practical level. It is very important to plan a work system, because the pentatonic scales have a particularity that makes them interesting enough from a technical view point regarding the right hand. In fact, having two notes per string, the execution is more complicated, and therefore you have to be very careful of the fingerings themselves, as well as the correct use of the picking.
As you will see, the exercises increase in difficulty in order to create a type of controlled training. Besides that, they are all written in box 1 in A minor, but then should be performed in all the boxes. Remember that this type of study, if done properly and with daily practice, can give very satisfying results. Now I would like to briefly summarize what I think is a good study procedure for every exercise.
- First of all memorize the exercise, so that you don't always have to read.
- Pay attention to the rhythmic division: work, if possible, with a metronome thats initially set at a slow speed, then increase the speed as soon as you have confidence with the exercise.
- Always use alternate picking. Even if in some cases it seems to be an obstacle,
it is the only way to improve your speed and precision.
- When you feel confident in the execution of the exercise, try to change scales.
This will help in the study of the same fingering in another positions on the fretboard. Just two or three scales of your choice are enough. It's not important which, but rather the fact that you work in different areas on the fretboard.
- Daily practice is fundamental, but it doesn't have to be heavy. If you are tired,
or you have other things on your mind, don't play: you're not forced to do so! Remember that it is better to study a few times very well than many times badly. I believe that discipline, from this view point, surely brings good results.
- You are always your own best critic, whether its studying, playing live or in the recording room.
Something that seems beautiful today, can be disgusting tomorrow... It's just a saying, but its true in music as well as in life.
To finish, I want to add that thourough study of the pentatonics should last about one month, with an average of an hour per day. Don't make the mistake of playing five hours one day and then nothing for a week, because you will get less out of it. Try to maintain a homogeneous work level.
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