Mastering minor guitar scales is a cornerstone of becoming a versatile guitarist. These scales are not only fundamental to understanding music theory but are also essential tools for crafting emotionally compelling solos. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve deep into the Natural Minor scale, Minor Pentatonic scale, and other fascinating minor scales, complete with accurate guitar tabs. Additionally, we’ll highlight some iconic guitar solos that masterfully use these minor scales to create memorable melodies.

Natural Minor Guitar Scales

The Natural Minor scale, also known as the Aeolian mode, is one of the most commonly used minor scales in music. Its sound is characterized by a melancholic and somber quality, making it perfect for expressing deeper emotions.

Formula and Intervals

The formula for the Natural Minor scale is:

1 2 b3 4 5 b6 b7

This means that compared to the Major scale, the 3rd, 6th, and 7th notes are flattened.

Guitar Tab in A Minor

Here’s the Natural Minor scale in the key of A:

e|-----------------------------------5-7-8-|
B|-----------------------------5-6-8-------|
G|-----------------------4-5-7-------------|
D|-----------------5-7---------------------|
A|---------5-7-8---------------------------|
E|-5-7-8-----------------------------------|

Application

The Natural Minor scale is used in a variety of genres, from classical to metal. It’s particularly popular in creating dark and moody atmospheres.

Minor Pentatonic Guitar Scales

The Minor Pentatonic scale is arguably the most popular scale among guitarists. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to scale for soloing and improvisation.

Formula and Intervals

The formula for the Minor Pentatonic scale is:

1 b3 4 5 b7

This scale omits the 2nd and the b6 from the Natural Minor scale, which simplifies its structure.

Guitar Tab in A Minor

Here’s the Minor Pentatonic scale in the key of A:

e|---------------------------5-8-|
B|-----------------------5-8-----|
G|-----------------5-7-----------|
D|-------------5-7---------------|
A|-------5-7---------------------|
E|-5-8---------------------------|

Application

The Minor Pentatonic scale is ubiquitous in blues, rock, and many other styles. It’s the backbone of countless iconic guitar solos.

Harmonic Minor Guitar Scales

The Harmonic Minor scale adds a unique flavor with its characteristic raised 7th note, which creates a distinct, almost exotic sound.

Formula and Intervals

The formula for the Harmonic Minor scale is:

1 2 b3 4 5 b6 7

This means that compared to the Natural Minor scale, the 7th note is raised by a half step.

Guitar Tab in A Minor

Here’s the Harmonic Minor scale in the key of A:

e|-------------------------------------4-5-|
B|------------------------------5-6-9-------|
G|------------------------5-6-8-------------|
D|------------------6-7---------------------|
A|-----------5-7-8--------------------------|
E|-5-7-8------------------------------------|

Application

The Harmonic Minor scale is often used in classical music, metal, and neoclassical genres. It brings a dramatic and sometimes mysterious quality to the music.

Melodic Minor Guitar Scales

The Melodic Minor scale is unique because it has different ascending and descending forms. However, in modern guitar playing, the ascending form is more commonly used.

Formula and Intervals

The formula for the ascending Melodic Minor scale is:

1 2 b3 4 5 6 7

Guitar Tab in A Minor

Here’s the ascending Melodic Minor scale in the key of A:

e|-------------------------------------4-5-|
B|------------------------------5-6-8-------|
G|------------------------4-5-7-------------|
D|------------------4-7---------------------|
A|-----------5-7-9--------------------------|
E|-5-7-8------------------------------------|

Application

The Melodic Minor scale is frequently used in jazz and fusion genres. It offers a more complex and sophisticated sound compared to other minor scales.

Dorian Mode

The Dorian mode is another minor scale variant, often used in jazz and rock music. It’s essentially a Natural Minor scale with a raised 6th note.

Formula and Intervals

The formula for the Dorian mode is:

1 2 b3 4 5 6 b7

Guitar Tab in A Minor

Here’s the Dorian mode in the key of A:

e|-------------------------------5-7-8-|
B|--------------------------5-7--------|
G|--------------------4-5-7------------|
D|---------------4-7-------------------|
A|---------5-7-------------------------|
E|-5-7-8-------------------------------|

Application

The Dorian mode is popular in jazz, funk, and rock. It provides a slightly brighter sound than the Natural Minor scale, making it versatile for different musical contexts.

Phrygian Mode

The Phrygian mode is known for its Spanish and Flamenco sound. It’s a Natural Minor scale with a flattened 2nd note.

Formula and Intervals

The formula for the Phrygian mode is:

1 b2 b3 4 5 b6 b7

Guitar Tab in A Minor

Here’s the Phrygian mode in the key of A:

e|------------------------------5-7-8-|
B|------------------------5-6-8-------|
G|-------------------5-7--------------|
D|---------------5-7------------------|
A|---------5-7-8----------------------|
E|-5-7-8------------------------------|

Application

The Phrygian mode is widely used in metal, Spanish, and Latin music. Its distinctive sound can add an exotic and dramatic flair to your playing.

Top 4 Guitar Solos Using Minor Scales

1. “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin

Scale Used: A Minor Pentatonic

The solo in “Stairway to Heaven” by Jimmy Page is one of the most famous guitar solos of all time. It predominantly uses the A Minor Pentatonic scale, creating a soulful and expressive melody.

2. “Comfortably Numb” by Pink Floyd

Scale Used: B Natural Minor

David Gilmour’s solo in “Comfortably Numb” is a masterpiece of melodic phrasing and emotional expression. The B Natural Minor scale forms the backbone of this iconic solo, adding depth and emotion to the music.

3. “Eruption” by Van Halen

Scale Used: E Harmonic Minor

Eddie Van Halen’s “Eruption” is a showcase of technical prowess and innovation. The use of the E Harmonic Minor scale contributes to the solo’s dramatic and intense sound.

4. “Black Magic Woman” by Santana

Scale Used: Dorian Mode

Carlos Santana’s “Black Magic Woman” features solos that use the Dorian mode, giving the piece a unique and exotic sound. The raised 6th note of the Dorian mode adds a distinctive flavor to Santana’s playing.

Conclusion

Mastering minor guitar scales is essential for any guitarist looking to expand their musical vocabulary and emotional range. Whether you’re playing the melancholic Natural Minor scale, the versatile Minor Pentatonic scale, or exploring the exotic sounds of the Harmonic and Melodic Minor scales, these scales will open up new possibilities for your playing. By studying iconic solos that use these scales, you can gain insights into how to apply them in your own music, creating solos that are both technically impressive and emotionally resonant. Happy playing!