I strongly urge anyone new to this channel to grab a pen and paper and watch every upload, even if you think you already know the subject under revue. This man is an international treasure.
I agree. I've never found another instructor that can teach the ins and outs of the instrument like Chris. And the way he explains it makes everything so easy to understand and absorb....as long as you put in the work. 'Sustained effort over time'
@@curiousguitarist keep up the good work boss! Thnk 2 u i had the light bulb go off for me when it comes to scales ! Love it! Merry xmas sir 2 u & yours!
Chris, now I can understand why Marty has becoome such a wonderful teacher himself. You have guided and influenced him tremendously, Now I have two people I can go and learn from Thank you.
I plateaued for years until I finally learned the major scale. Boom. Modes, chords, theory, ear, figuring out solos - all started to make more sense. Still working on all those things but never made so much progress so quickly since learning that damn scale.
Wow, thank you so much Chris! I have been playing guitar for 48 years and apart from a few years of classical guitar theory I did when I was about 10, I have shied away from learning guitar and music theory. Now in my late 50's, I'm trying to pluck up the courage to get started in finally mastering the instrument that I've loved all my life but have never been free to express myself on. I have watched 100's of videos on guitar systems from some very clever people but yours is the first video that clearly explained what all these guys are talking about when they say "the four" or "the six". This is the very first time I understand what that means in theory. I subscribed immediately and will now have a look at your other videos. Thank you!
This is an “oh that’s how it works” moment. I can’t even begin to tell you how many hacks have sent me on a wild goose chase confusing the hell out of me with improper explanations. Obviously this just made the neck explode wide open for me.
Finally. You were able to explain it in a way that I'm starting to understand the circle of 5ths better. Thank you. I'm going to watch it probably a few more times. Thanks again, Pal
I, like many others on here have been playing most of my life..., 40 plus years. and have been discovering new things the entire time! Your lessons and tutorials have continued to show me that this journey will forever come with great discoveries. like a bottom-less treasure chest. I like that at this juncture in my life I consider myself a great player. Yes, there are better players than me in my area, but I'm a great player by all who know me. and it's nice to know that after a lifetime of playing I can write and play pretty much everything that interests me. Not bragging!! but hard work, study, and plain old stick-to-attivness have got me here! Your help and knowledge always play a part here! another great lesson Chris! Thanks!
Wow Tone, that means a lot to me. And I concur, completely...it never ends and when you focus on the now, you never feel like you're chasing something you cannot catch.
I pretty much echo what Tone Glide has said here. I'm an old guy who hit my 10,000 hrs long ago, performed, recorded, but I'm still and always a beginner and realize sometimes that I honestly suck. Not to compare in any way (no, no, no!) but even Jeff Beck says the same thing. Chris invokes Steve Vai on this- very same humble attitude and 'beginner's mind' while being one of the recognized Masters. Check your ego, whatever level we're at we never stop learning and there's always room for improvement. As a teacher and scholar, Chris is a humble student who places himself above no other. I learn, relearn and am inspired every episode. I'm so thankful for music. Can't wait to play later!
Thanks, Chris! Although the major scale isn't new to me, I enjoyed this video and the way you explain how to derive other scales and non-diatonic chords from the major scale. My guitar teacher says the exact same thing as you: understanding the major scale (and how it applies to the fretboard) is the most important bit of theory you need to know. Once you understand that, you can figure out everything else: complex chords, minor scales, pentatonic scales, and modes. My musical "training" started in the 80s in out middle school band. They needed somebody for percussion, so I signed on. That was great for instilling a basic sense of rhythm in me. I specialized in mallets (xylophone, vibraphone, marimba, etc.). It was there that I learned to read notes (rather than just note values). It's also where I learned to play scales. As a result, it's always been easier for me to switch from major to the relative minor, rather than the parallel minor.
Chris, this is really a jem. I started playing in 74. I played in hair bands in the 80s and would learn complete albums by ear, by wearing the needle out on my turntable. I have written my own music throughout my musical experience, but have never understood theory. Last year, I got turned onto a band from South America and became very good friends with the guitarist. I started learning their fairly complicated songs by ear. This impressed the guitars, so, he started showing me the proper chords that he uses. I was building chords by individual tones..I've got pretty good pitch. But the more I communicate with the guitarist, the more he speaks to me in theory nomenclature. Words like " the tonic." " You need to add tension and then return to the tonic." So this language has made me jump down the rabbit hole at 62 years old. I still love the adventure of the guitar. You never know it all. Thank you for this. I just subscribed, and I am going to put my brain and fingers to work. Thanks. GT.
I’ve been diving into music theory on guitar for a while and I’ve never seen these concepts laid out in such a straightforward way. I love my teachers and mentors but teaching is hard! And you, sir, have gone a long ways towards mastery. I’ve subbed and will be watching closely. Thanks
Wow! Really enjoying this channel! I've been playing for 20 years but like a lot of folks, I have always found theory a bit daunting to learn. These videos make it seem much easier than I had thought previously and I'm actually enjoying learning theory. Great job Chris and thank you for taking the time to educate us.
I've been playing for 17 years and am pretty decent. I've had some teachers who have helped me but watching your videos takes this to a whole new level of understanding. Much appreciated!! btw has anyone ever mentioned that you resemble Pep Guardiola?
Marvellous! I’ve been playing 32 years Chris and always hoped to find someone who could explained things succinctly, at the right pace, whilst keeping it enjoyable, i’ve come close but you are a game changer 🙏
I definitely found this information useful. You don’t just show us how to do something, but to figure it out for ourselves. Definitely something that sticks with you. Thank you for all of your great lessons!
Thanks Chris, I have known how to use numbers in finding chord shapes, but the way you shined the light how to find scales has turned my lights on. I've always pittaled around with a guitar for years. I feel motivated once again to pull out my tele and begin a new journey. I got so far along and felt giving up was the best thing for me. I appreciate your way of teaching.
Absolutely correct on becoming one with the instrument. I started playing when I was 66, 6 years ago. I really didn't start to feel comfortable until about the late 4th year. Since I play only chord-melody, I was kind of learning everything backwards, revolving everything around the melody note. Took a little extra time but made a huge difference once it clicked. Learning all my inversions on the top 3 strings in all 5 scales seemed to really help the process of blending with the guitar. It's no longer a foreign object that I'm just holding.
What a great story, Don! Thanks. I need to work on some chord melody...it's a niche that I've left unattended on my journey!!! Thank you for the reminder!
@@curiousguitarist NP. I played tenor sax for 40 years before switching. So I could read and had some music foundation. But I fell in love with guitar, especially learning music theory. BTW. Is that a custom paint job on your LP? It looks too orange for Fiesta Red but I can't find that in the Gibson color family. Is that a Peaceful Orange? Very soothing.
BTW. I find it much easier to play altered or extended chords with chord melody. The fingering is much easier because you're always building underneath the melody note. I find it much, much harder when the bass note is on the 5th or especially the 6th string. Be well.
@@donlessnau3983 the color is called “Sweet Cherry” but it has been fading (beautifully) for a while now. I’ve never seen a Les Paul turn this color before.
This video has almost 140,000 views and you’re telling me only 6000 people bothered to hit the thumbs up button. What’s wrong with you people? It doesn’t take that much effort to give the man a simple thumbs up for all that he’s providing. I wish I could give you 1000 thumbs up.
I’ve watched a heck of a lot of videos about scales and this one is the clearest and easiest to understand of all. Really well designed teaching. Thanks!
Your explanations are very clear and easy to follow. Showing how the harmonic minor scale compares to the Major scale was very helpful to me as a visual learner. Thank you from Australia 👍🙏🦘
Hey Chris, been a long time player, have multiple records to my credit and produced scores of others. For some reason, the fretboard has always puzzled me, but you have finally given me a shiny lightbulb moment on how to progress with my triads and actually remember how they work and how to connect them. Yesterday I spent the whole day, 8 plus hours, working on the circle of fifths with these progressions and now I have a new tool to learn. Thank you so much, your teaching style really speaks to me. So much so I was happy to pay for the lesson. Look forward to more of your lessons.
Wow, wow, wow! You just opened my mind to the fretboard! amazing. While you did not say it out loud, this explains why the guitar strings are EADGBE! Thank you. Thank you. Thank you! This is the most important lesson I have had so far in my first month of learning the guitar and music theory. This dovetails right into the Circle of 5ths or vice versa. Cool stuff! Now I can play all major scales on the first 3 strings for the first time!
I’ve been listening to quite a few guitar teachers around UTube and they have all been good but there is always a point where they transition into something where I have to put it down because I don’t know how or why they got that. This was the first lesson where I didn’t hear that Charlie Brown sound; it all made sense. Thank you for an informative video.
You are so welcome!! I’m glad you enjoyed it, and I hope there are some other Jen’s here for you too. Love the avatar here as well, flag going up at Iwo right?
Great lesson and thx for sharing. I'm a bass player and we use the Nashville number system. I always play the three on the A string but I like how you play it on the E.
Thank you I hope your well this is my first time seeing 1 of your videos and it struck a chord with me pun intended. I have been playing for several years and had a very good buddy who taught me here and there some theory nothing I would say foundational it was and is very useful and invaluable to me it was in the army and had a limited time with him and have self taught myself up till recently where RUclips has given me a little more insight but nothing has made more sense to me than your explaination I am going to learn the major scales spacing when I think of scales I don't know I think of this elaborate chart and it puts me off right away I may even know the major scale all ready the scales he taught me the 1 is the minor pentatonic but he showed me a scale that was similar but had quite a few added notes in it any way thank you again
Absolutely, the best lesson ive found since my beginner classes. And your pacing is excellent. Enough time to consume the information, apply it, let it sink in. Just awesome.
Thanks Chris, I recently picked up the guitar again after many years and started working on the major scale and its 5 positions and trying to join them all up into some kind of fluidity, as well as linking them to the octave shapes etc. This video gives me the enthusiasm to keep up with it.
Chris, you’re the clearest, most articulate teacher of the guitar and theory on RUclips! I like Rick Beato in general, but all of his teaching videos seem more designed to show off his guitar playing (which is very good) than explicitly teach clearly and concisely! I’m sure you’re an excellent player, but you stay focused on teaching all of us how the guitar actually works!
Thanks Chris. That was really useful to me. While studying diagrams around the three note per string scale you demonstrated, I realised that a specific note can be found 5 frets up on the next string. So ‘E’ on the A string 7th fret, can be found on the 2nd fret of the D string, and so on. Of course when you jump to the B string, it becomes 4 frets up. Every little bit helps.
Exactly, and yes, every bit counts. Especially if you can build on the things you already know and attach the new stuff to that. It helps to really cement the info onto the fretboard.
Just a fabulous lesson Chris! As are the many other lessons you do. I thank you for that. This one is particularly great because it's so crystal clear to me and as you say it provides an anchor point that I can use. Forever! Thank you so much for what you do!
To compare my rection to this video versus others... I know NO Greek, some Spanish, and speak English fluently. Other videos on this range of theory subjects pretty much start and end in Greek. This man, God bless him, was speaking Spanglish to me! I'm taking another commentor's advice and listening again with pen and paper. I'm 68 and retired, revisiting my guitar playing ambition after wasting decades being responsible and productive. Now retired, I'm working on being the idiot my parents feared most! Thanks, Chris, very much.
Very cool for sure... I've watched a lot of guitar educational videos, but this one and the one about continuing the minor scale off the octave down the neck, really hit home for me. Thank you.
This is really a great video lesson! The visual along with the audio and verbal explanation is perfect for multimodal learning (which is exactly what dyslexic left-handers playing right-handed like me need) Can’t wait to try it to complete the experience.
THANK YOU, VERY MUCH, CHRIS!! YOUR EXCELLENT LESSONS, ARE SO HELPFUL!!! i THINK THAT i HAVE A GOOD UNDERSTANDING OF THE "BASICS, BUT, I'M WONDERING HOW GOOD MUSICIANS HAVE SO MUCH KNOWLEDGE, AND SKILLS, TO "INSTANTLY" KNOW WHAT NOTES ARE IN ALL OF THE "CHORDS", AND THEIR INVERSIONS!.. WHERE DO WE NEED TO LOOK, TO BREAK OUT OF THE "BASIC" LEVEL?!...
That "instant" capability came from years of study really...there isn't a real short cut. But if you really integrate the major scale, and all the chords it creates, that's the core "fabric" that all musicians (on ANY instrument) use and alter to create and perform music
Hi Chris thanks for the lesson ... Watched this video in prior several times but my knowledge in harmony was minimal didn't know much of the constructions of diminished augmented intervals. After studying those and recognizing every note on the fretboard all this came clear as water. Thanks a lot .... My left hand has become more melodic after practicing this ideas. The music in me comes out on my fingers a lot easier . Strengthened my muscles on my left hand by playing the major and minor pentatonic in different positions of the neck and now music starts flowing ....
🎸✌️🤨🤨🤠🤙even the age spots in my back are all but gone ,, join so many dots , I’m never going to b the THING or DUDE guitarist but aspired in my teens (nearly wrote ‘tents’ ,, to be able to play what I can hear , say off the tv,, and with u dudes and my original guitar teacher (thanks mum rip , for lessons I got 4 me ) ,, I’m bloody happy with buying guitars cheap or looking for nice guitars along with my little home studio I’m slowly creating as my last quest in life ,.haa
I have been working on harmonizing the major scale using two strings up and down the neck. Double stop style. It really is all about the major scale. Great channel! Thanks for sharing 🎸
Chris thanks so much for your guitar tuition,,, you are teaching incredible fundamentals on the fretboard 😂 you have helped me so much,,, I play lead guitar in a Clapton Mayall blues breaker band but basically no sweet F A about theory but you are without doubt the best teacher explain ing so clearly best wishes for 2024 Andrew from Warrington 😂
@@DougSmith-y4o of course! Mapping octaves and triads is possibly the most impactful thing you can do to open up the fretboard. Glad you’re seeing some light!
Wow I really enjoyed this lesson it makes me want to learn more, after playing covers for years I became good at learning songs but I feel that I should of learnt about intervals and their relationship to the major scale, I learnt more in this video than years of copying but not understanding what was happening beneath my fingers, this has been a light bulb moment and I appreciate you taking the time to enlighten me, thank you Chris most sincerely 👍
Just saw this one today, found your channel after your video in Martys channel about the circle of fifths, which unlocked soooooooo much applicable information for me! I've skipped the Major scale until now only because everyone said learn the pentatonic.. But this really tied the knot and also helps sooo much with understanding the theory of everything Thanks sooooo much man! They way its all explained here is just what i needed
I found Marty on RUclips back in the 2000s. At times the only purpose in my life was to learn something new on guitar. That means you also are responsible for improving the quality of life for myself and others. Thank you for your gift.
@MarkEWallace Yep....."At times". Read that again. I was young with no wife, no kids, drinking heavily, going from woman to woman. Needed something healthy to focus on so I focused on guitar. Kept me out of bars, kept money in my pocket, kept me sane. Now I have an awesome, high paying job. I have 2 kids and next week my wife and I celebrate 15 years together.
Man these theory videos are great! He does a great job of simplifying concepts that have always been a thorn in my side. Time to practice some major scales :)
I love your emphasis on the simple foundation. I think adding the upper and lower terra cord info. would be helpful. Especially when people start to study the circle of fifths. I have a reading handy cap and it helps me.
Yes the tetra chord info is helpful. Seeing the whole structure seems a bit more useful when you begin to alter it, but that is my experience. I can totally see how breaking it in half could be easier to track. I'll ponder the tetra chord idea, there's definitely a video in there! Thank you for the suggestion.
@@curiousguitarist I am telling "Everyone" to get on board with you. You explain things in the most clear, concise and easily-digestible manner. Happy Holidays brother from NYC
Totally agree, Mike! There are SO many ways to look at the scale itself, and eventually, as you incorporate more and more ways to view it, all of the smoke lifts and it all appears to be one thing. Thanks for all your support!
Hey Chris, awesome lesson! It deserves a second and a third watch to really sink in. Thank you. I will be subscribing to your Patreon for sure. Some sweet tones out of that Les Paul btw
I strongly urge anyone new to this channel to grab a pen and paper and watch every upload, even if you think you already know the subject under revue. This man is an international treasure.
Thank you, Mike, I really appreciate that.
I agree. I've never found another instructor that can teach the ins and outs of the instrument like Chris. And the way he explains it makes everything so easy to understand and absorb....as long as you put in the work. 'Sustained effort over time'
Agreed 👍 👍
Agreed. Chris is definitely a must watch. I try every chance I get
I second this.
Please dont stop teaching,your teaching method is gold
Thanks, I have no plans to stop, and I'm glad you enjoy it!
Amazing. The frets just turned from roadblocks into pathways.
Now THAT'S a great comment!! Love it, Sam!!
I’m always learning guitar and I watch a lot of these type videos. This is one of, if not best, explanation of major scale. Great teacher.
Thank you very much, I appreciate that and I'm glad you're here.
I found my guitar teacher. Appreciate for sharing the information. Thank you Chris.
You are welcome, Kai!
Bloody brilliant mate!
The major scale just became the "rosetta stone" for me for unlocking other scales!
Great style of teaching!
So glad you enjoyed this one, Adrian. Glad you’re here!
@@curiousguitarist keep up the good work boss!
Thnk 2 u i had the light bulb go off for me when it comes to scales !
Love it!
Merry xmas sir 2 u & yours!
Chris, now I can understand why Marty has becoome such a wonderful teacher himself. You have guided and influenced him tremendously, Now I have two people I can go and learn from Thank you.
Hey Bruce. Thanks for the compliment. Marty and I remain in touch often, I'm glad you get inspiration from both of us!
I plateaued for years until I finally learned the major scale. Boom. Modes, chords, theory, ear, figuring out solos - all started to make more sense. Still working on all those things but never made so much progress so quickly since learning that damn scale.
Exactly! Thanks for posting this, it’s perfect comment for this video :)
Well....THIS blew my MIND...very nicely communicated....I had my first "AHA" moment. Thanks for that.
Aha! Hopefully there are a few more around here for you.
Wow, thank you so much Chris! I have been playing guitar for 48 years and apart from a few years of classical guitar theory I did when I was about 10, I have shied away from learning guitar and music theory. Now in my late 50's, I'm trying to pluck up the courage to get started in finally mastering the instrument that I've loved all my life but have never been free to express myself on. I have watched 100's of videos on guitar systems from some very clever people but yours is the first video that clearly explained what all these guys are talking about when they say "the four" or "the six". This is the very first time I understand what that means in theory. I subscribed immediately and will now have a look at your other videos. Thank you!
Thanks for your trust in me, Paul. I'm glad you're here.
The way you teach is great. Clear and direct. Thank you very much for great content!
You bet, Tyler, I'm glad these videos resonate! And I'm glad you're here.
This is an “oh that’s how it works” moment. I can’t even begin to tell you how many hacks have sent me on a wild goose chase confusing the hell out of me with improper explanations. Obviously this just made the neck explode wide open for me.
Man that’s great news, Joel! Glad you found your way here!
I have watched this channel grow 10-fold over the past year or so (and no, it wasn’t just because of Marty Schwartz). Love it.
Thanks Area! I really appreciate the support and engagement. I'm glad you're still here!
Totally still with you.
This has to be the first time theory has made sense and actually stuck with me. Brilliant video, thank you.
You bet, Ben. Im happy to help and glad you’re here.
This should be titled, "so you don't think theory is worth learning?"
Brilliantly explained man
Thanks Randy! So glad you enjoyed it.
Finally. You were able to explain it in a way that I'm starting to understand the circle of 5ths better. Thank you. I'm going to watch it probably a few more times. Thanks again, Pal
You bet Michael!
This is one of the best videos I've seen. It's slow, methodical, and easy to follow. Perfect for my brain to learn from. Thank you
You are welcome, so glad it was helpful!
Pure Gold!
It's like you put a shortcut (but it isn't) for us to the journey of the guitar instrument .brilliant.
Thank You Chris.
You're very welcome, Roi, thanks for the views, comments, and just for sharing your journey here.
I, like many others on here have been playing most of my life..., 40 plus years. and have been discovering new things the entire time! Your lessons and tutorials have continued to show me that this journey will forever come with great discoveries. like a bottom-less treasure chest. I like that at this juncture in my life I consider myself a great player. Yes, there are better players than me in my area, but I'm a great player by all who know me. and it's nice to know that after a lifetime of playing I can write and play pretty much everything that interests me. Not bragging!! but hard work, study, and plain old stick-to-attivness have got me here! Your help and knowledge always play a part here! another great lesson Chris! Thanks!
Wow Tone, that means a lot to me. And I concur, completely...it never ends and when you focus on the now, you never feel like you're chasing something you cannot catch.
@@curiousguitarist I totally agree! With you on that!
Yes I agree
Tone-glide , you said it all right there. My life exactly. Big thanks to Chris.
I pretty much echo what Tone Glide has said here. I'm an old guy who hit my 10,000 hrs long ago, performed, recorded, but I'm still and always a beginner and realize sometimes that I honestly suck. Not to compare in any way (no, no, no!) but even Jeff Beck says the same thing. Chris invokes Steve Vai on this- very same humble attitude and 'beginner's mind' while being one of the recognized Masters. Check your ego, whatever level we're at we never stop learning and there's always room for improvement. As a teacher and scholar, Chris is a humble student who places himself above no other. I learn, relearn and am inspired every episode. I'm so thankful for music. Can't wait to play later!
Thanks, Chris! Although the major scale isn't new to me, I enjoyed this video and the way you explain how to derive other scales and non-diatonic chords from the major scale. My guitar teacher says the exact same thing as you: understanding the major scale (and how it applies to the fretboard) is the most important bit of theory you need to know. Once you understand that, you can figure out everything else: complex chords, minor scales, pentatonic scales, and modes.
My musical "training" started in the 80s in out middle school band. They needed somebody for percussion, so I signed on. That was great for instilling a basic sense of rhythm in me. I specialized in mallets (xylophone, vibraphone, marimba, etc.). It was there that I learned to read notes (rather than just note values). It's also where I learned to play scales. As a result, it's always been easier for me to switch from major to the relative minor, rather than the parallel minor.
@@LeeFKoch great comment, thanks for sharing this Lee. I agree completely
Chris, this is really a jem. I started playing in 74. I played in hair bands in the 80s and would learn complete albums by ear, by wearing the needle out on my turntable.
I have written my own music throughout my musical experience, but have never understood theory.
Last year, I got turned onto a band from South America and became very good friends with the guitarist. I started learning their fairly complicated songs by ear. This impressed the guitars, so, he started showing me the proper chords that he uses. I was building chords by individual tones..I've got pretty good pitch. But the more I communicate with the guitarist, the more he speaks to me in theory nomenclature. Words like " the tonic." " You need to add tension and then return to the tonic."
So this language has made me jump down the rabbit hole at 62 years old.
I still love the adventure of the guitar. You never know it all.
Thank you for this. I just subscribed, and I am going to put my brain and fingers to work.
Thanks.
GT.
So glad you're here GT, great comment.
Brilliant video an relating scales to math has just opened whole new door for me makes so much more sense now
That's fantastic news, Chris! Welcome aboard!
Chris, thank you for a wonderful lesson, this lesson was a great leap forward in my control of the keyboard
Glad it was helpful, Thomas!
I’ve been diving into music theory on guitar for a while and I’ve never seen these concepts laid out in such a straightforward way. I love my teachers and mentors but teaching is hard! And you, sir, have gone a long ways towards mastery. I’ve subbed and will be watching closely. Thanks
Glad you're here and the channel is providing some value. Thanks for the views, comment and sub, Adam. I appreciate it.
ARGH!! Why did all me teachers start me on the Pentatonic scales??! This context-based method is what I’ve been missing, and needing! Cheers!
Cheers!!!
Wow! Really enjoying this channel! I've been playing for 20 years but like a lot of folks, I have always found theory a bit daunting to learn. These videos make it seem much easier than I had thought previously and I'm actually enjoying learning theory. Great job Chris and thank you for taking the time to educate us.
And indeed, it IS quite easy. But it is important to control the context as you digest it. very glad you're here, Joe~
Lame
Subscribed. This the best guitar lesson I’ve seen across you tube. I only wish I had watched this 10 years ago!
Wow, thanks, Matthew! I’m glad you’re here now!
I've been playing for 17 years and am pretty decent. I've had some teachers who have helped me but watching your videos takes this to a whole new level of understanding. Much appreciated!! btw has anyone ever mentioned that you resemble Pep Guardiola?
Glad to help, and Pep, he's a handsome devil! I'll take it!!
Thanks, Marcus!
@@curiousguitarist you are very welcome and the other similarity is that he's also a great coach!
Marvellous! I’ve been playing 32 years Chris and always hoped to find someone who could explained things succinctly, at the right pace, whilst keeping it enjoyable, i’ve come close but you are a game changer 🙏
Can't tell you how glad I am to hear that, Chris. Glad you found your way here!
Wow! Some folks just have the knowledge and ability to unlock the mysticism. Thank you!
You are so welcome! Thanks for the views and comments.
Every inspiring young player should watch this,pure gold.
Thanks!
I definitely found this information useful. You don’t just show us how to do something, but to figure it out for ourselves. Definitely something that sticks with you. Thank you for all of your great lessons!
Thanks Kevin, glad you enjoyed this one.
Pro performing drummer expanding my horizons .
Need to unlock the unit mysteries of the scales.
Thanks for your help.❤🎉
You bet
Reminded me that I can find chord construction and progressions inside the specific Major scale. Great lesson! “And don’t call me Shirley”
Haha! Glad you enjoyed it. There is so much inside the structure of a key…it’s a very large pool of chords and progression possibilities
Thanks Chris, I have known how to use numbers in finding chord shapes, but the way you shined the light how to find scales has turned my lights on. I've always pittaled around with a guitar for years. I feel motivated once again to pull out my tele and begin a new journey. I got so far along and felt giving up was the best thing for me. I appreciate your way of teaching.
I can't tell you how great that is to hear Jackie, thanks, and welcome to the channel!!
This gives me hope and is comforting in that way. Thank you, Chris.
Yup, we all need a little hope from time to time, but, if you just mail the major scale, like really nail it?
…you won’t need hope anymore :)
Absolutely correct on becoming one with the instrument. I started playing when I was 66, 6 years ago. I really didn't start to feel comfortable until about the late 4th year. Since I play only chord-melody, I was kind of learning everything backwards, revolving everything around the melody note. Took a little extra time but made a huge difference once it clicked. Learning all my inversions on the top 3 strings in all 5 scales seemed to really help the process of blending with the guitar. It's no longer a foreign object that I'm just holding.
What a great story, Don! Thanks. I need to work on some chord melody...it's a niche that I've left unattended on my journey!!! Thank you for the reminder!
@@curiousguitarist NP. I played tenor sax for 40 years before switching. So I could read and had some music foundation. But I fell in love with guitar, especially learning music theory. BTW. Is that a custom paint job on your LP? It looks too orange for Fiesta Red but I can't find that in the Gibson color family. Is that a Peaceful Orange? Very soothing.
BTW. I find it much easier to play altered or extended chords with chord melody. The fingering is much easier because you're always building underneath the melody note. I find it much, much harder when the bass note is on the 5th or especially the 6th string. Be well.
@@donlessnau3983 that’s great context, I’ve been procrastinating around building a chord melody for too long!
@@donlessnau3983 the color is called “Sweet Cherry” but it has been fading (beautifully) for a while now. I’ve never seen a Les Paul turn this color before.
This video has almost 140,000 views and you’re telling me only 6000 people bothered to hit the thumbs up button. What’s wrong with you people? It doesn’t take that much effort to give the man a simple thumbs up for all that he’s providing. I wish I could give you 1000 thumbs up.
I love this
Thank you! That means a lot to me.
I’ve watched a heck of a lot of videos about scales and this one is the clearest and easiest to understand of all. Really well designed teaching. Thanks!
Glad to hear it Jonathan, you are welcome.
Your explanations are very clear and easy to follow. Showing how the harmonic minor scale compares to the Major scale was very helpful to me as a visual learner. Thank you from Australia 👍🙏🦘
Of course, Ot, it’s my pleasure and I’m so glad to hear these videos are concise. Thanks for the views and comments.
Hey Chris, been a long time player, have multiple records to my credit and produced scores of others. For some reason, the fretboard has always puzzled me, but you have finally given me a shiny lightbulb moment on how to progress with my triads and actually remember how they work and how to connect them. Yesterday I spent the whole day, 8 plus hours, working on the circle of fifths with these progressions and now I have a new tool to learn. Thank you so much, your teaching style really speaks to me. So much so I was happy to pay for the lesson. Look forward to more of your lessons.
Thank you, very much, for your support. I am glad you're here and happy to help.
Great advice. I need to go back a properly relate all to the major scale. Best way to help remember them 👍🏽
Glad it was helpful!
Wow, wow, wow! You just opened my mind to the fretboard! amazing. While you did not say it out loud, this explains why the guitar strings are EADGBE! Thank you. Thank you. Thank you! This is the most important lesson I have had so far in my first month of learning the guitar and music theory. This dovetails right into the Circle of 5ths or vice versa. Cool stuff! Now I can play all major scales on the first 3 strings for the first time!
Freedom! This is what it feels like. I'm so glad you're here, thank you for the views and comments.
Thanks for the video. Helps an older guy trying to expand beyond strumming.
So glad this was helpful, Ray!
I’ve been listening to quite a few guitar teachers around UTube and they have all been good but there is always a point where they transition into something where I have to put it down because I don’t know how or why they got that. This was the first lesson where I didn’t hear that Charlie Brown sound; it all made sense. Thank you for an informative video.
You are so welcome!! I’m glad you enjoyed it, and I hope there are some other Jen’s here for you too.
Love the avatar here as well, flag going up at Iwo right?
@@curiousguitarist Yes, I am a U.S. Marine Corp veteran.
@@Leatherneck1057 thank you for your service!
Great lesson and thx for sharing. I'm a bass player and we use the Nashville number system. I always play the three on the A string but I like how you play it on the E.
Each choice of where to play the note you need opens up a new opportunity
Thank you I hope your well this is my first time seeing 1 of your videos and it struck a chord with me pun intended. I have been playing for several years and had a very good buddy who taught me here and there some theory nothing I would say foundational it was and is very useful and invaluable to me it was in the army and had a limited time with him and have self taught myself up till recently where RUclips has given me a little more insight but nothing has made more sense to me than your explaination I am going to learn the major scales spacing when I think of scales I don't know I think of this elaborate chart and it puts me off right away I may even know the major scale all ready the scales he taught me the 1 is the minor pentatonic but he showed me a scale that was similar but had quite a few added notes in it any way thank you again
You bet, Jeff, I'm glad you're here. Thanks for your service!
Thanks again Chris yes from guitar player to a musician I'm trying and getting there slowly.
Yup, it's a journey, and a fun one at that.
Brilliant. Simple, easy, accessible. Just plain brilliant. Thank you.
You bet, Setch13! Glad you enjoyed this one!
Absolutely, the best lesson ive found since my beginner classes. And your pacing is excellent. Enough time to consume the information, apply it, let it sink in. Just awesome.
Thanks, Don. I appreciate that, and I'm happy to know this landed well for you. Thanks for being here.
Thanks Chris, I recently picked up the guitar again after many years and started working on the major scale and its 5 positions and trying to join them all up into some kind of fluidity, as well as linking them to the octave shapes etc. This video gives me the enthusiasm to keep up with it.
That's great news Steve, stay curious about it...don't let it remain just a blob of dots!
Chris, you’re the clearest, most articulate teacher of the guitar and theory on RUclips! I like Rick Beato in general, but all of his teaching videos seem more designed to show off his guitar playing (which is very good) than explicitly teach clearly and concisely! I’m sure you’re an excellent player, but you stay focused on teaching all of us how the guitar actually works!
Wow, thanks, Dan. I'm happy to be helpful. Thanks for being here.
Good advice. Base learning on the major scale. Once you can play it from any starting note on the neck, you can flat the third etc in any key
Exactly!!
Thanks Chris. That was really useful to me. While studying diagrams around the three note per string scale you demonstrated, I realised that a specific note can be found 5 frets up on the next string. So ‘E’ on the A string 7th fret, can be found on the 2nd fret of the D string, and so on. Of course when you jump to the B string, it becomes 4 frets up. Every little bit helps.
Exactly, and yes, every bit counts. Especially if you can build on the things you already know and attach the new stuff to that. It helps to really cement the info onto the fretboard.
You are a remarkable teacher. Thank you for these free lessons. They have been critical in my understanding of music theory on guitar.
You are so welcome!
Just a fabulous lesson Chris! As are the many other lessons you do. I thank you for that. This one is particularly great because it's so crystal clear to me and as you say it provides an anchor point that I can use. Forever!
Thank you so much for what you do!
My pleasure, Oscar. Thanks!
To compare my rection to this video versus others... I know NO Greek, some Spanish, and speak English fluently. Other videos on this range of theory subjects pretty much start and end in Greek. This man, God bless him, was speaking Spanglish to me! I'm taking another commentor's advice and listening again with pen and paper. I'm 68 and retired, revisiting my guitar playing ambition after wasting decades being responsible and productive. Now retired, I'm working on being the idiot my parents feared most! Thanks, Chris, very much.
Ha! SO great to have you here!
I know it well, put it on the fretboard two strings at a time with those patterns you showed us. Took me a while!, thanks.
I am so glad! Thanks for trusting me to help, and thanks for being here!
Very cool for sure... I've watched a lot of guitar educational videos, but this one and the one about continuing the minor scale off the octave down the neck, really hit home for me. Thank you.
Glad you enjoyed it, and I'm happy to have helped shed some light!
This is really a great video lesson!
The visual along with the audio and verbal explanation is perfect for multimodal learning (which is exactly what dyslexic left-handers playing right-handed like me need)
Can’t wait to try it to complete the experience.
Glad it was helpful, Walt!
@@curiousguitarist 👍👍👍
THANK YOU, VERY MUCH, CHRIS!! YOUR EXCELLENT LESSONS, ARE SO HELPFUL!!! i THINK THAT i HAVE A GOOD UNDERSTANDING OF THE "BASICS, BUT, I'M WONDERING HOW GOOD MUSICIANS HAVE SO MUCH KNOWLEDGE, AND SKILLS, TO "INSTANTLY" KNOW WHAT NOTES ARE IN ALL OF THE "CHORDS", AND THEIR INVERSIONS!.. WHERE DO WE NEED TO LOOK, TO BREAK OUT OF THE "BASIC" LEVEL?!...
That "instant" capability came from years of study really...there isn't a real short cut. But if you really integrate the major scale, and all the chords it creates, that's the core "fabric" that all musicians (on ANY instrument) use and alter to create and perform music
Awesome lesson brother. Very well presented. I can build from this information. Thanks so much 👍
Yeah, you bet, Steve!
Hi Chris thanks for the lesson ... Watched this video in prior several times but my knowledge in harmony was minimal didn't know much of the constructions of diminished augmented intervals. After studying those and recognizing every note on the fretboard all this came clear as water. Thanks a lot .... My left hand has become more melodic after practicing this ideas. The music in me comes out on my fingers a lot easier . Strengthened my muscles on my left hand by playing the major and minor pentatonic in different positions of the neck and now music starts flowing ....
Flow baby, FLOW!
🎸✌️🤨🤨🤠🤙even the age spots in my back are all but gone ,, join so many dots , I’m never going to b the THING or DUDE guitarist but aspired in my teens (nearly wrote ‘tents’ ,, to be able to play what I can hear , say off the tv,, and with u dudes and my original guitar teacher (thanks mum rip , for lessons I got 4 me ) ,, I’m bloody happy with buying guitars cheap or looking for nice guitars along with my little home studio I’m slowly creating as my last quest in life ,.haa
That dude Mike hits the nail on the head about your teaching.
Thanks Kent!
I have been working on harmonizing the major scale using two strings up and down the neck. Double stop style. It really is all about the major scale. Great channel! Thanks for sharing 🎸
You bet, Robert!
Looks like I'm binging your lessons today...thanks!
Inspirational lesson. I have so much to learn. Thanks
Glad it was helpful!
Chris thanks so much for your guitar tuition,,, you are teaching incredible fundamentals on the fretboard 😂 you have helped me so much,,, I play lead guitar in a Clapton Mayall blues breaker band but basically no sweet F A about theory but you are without doubt the best teacher explain ing so clearly best wishes for 2024 Andrew from Warrington 😂
Thanks and happy new year, Andrew! I’m so glad to help! Would love to hear the band, any videos out there?
I just can’t watch this video enough.!
Probably the 6th time now.. Great stuff Chris.!👍🏼❤️
Thanks Joe! And thank you for all your support!
Thanks Chris, very useful stuff!
Glad this one landed well for you!
Probably the most played chord progression from the early 1960's, Chris!
I iv IV V forever :)
Hello Chris and all.
Chris, this lesson on the Major scale is so insightful. Just subscribed and look forward to more ! 🎸🎶
Great to have you on board! Welcome!
Hey Chris, I’m also looking at a lesson you have on Triads and how to use them. Really great lessons! Thanks!
@@DougSmith-y4o of course! Mapping octaves and triads is possibly the most impactful thing you can do to open up the fretboard. Glad you’re seeing some light!
Beautifully explained, thank you so much!
You are welcome! Glad you’re here.
Brilliant lesson. Thanks.
You bet, Niguel. Glad you enjoyed this one
that's an amazing lesson...i just wanna watch it again and again.Thank You
Thanks, Gerald. I'm glad you enjoyed it and very appreciative of the views and comment.
Wow I really enjoyed this lesson it makes me want to learn more, after playing covers for years I became good at learning songs but I feel that I should of learnt about intervals and their relationship to the major scale, I learnt more in this video than years of copying but not understanding what was happening beneath my fingers, this has been a light bulb moment and I appreciate you taking the time to enlighten me, thank you Chris most sincerely 👍
You are so welcome! Once you really internalize and map the major scale, all the other stuff is so much more accessible
Just saw this one today, found your channel after your video in Martys channel about the circle of fifths, which unlocked soooooooo much applicable information for me! I've skipped the Major scale until now only because everyone said learn the pentatonic.. But this really tied the knot and also helps sooo much with understanding the theory of everything Thanks sooooo much man! They way its all explained here is just what i needed
So glad you're here! More coming~
Incredible video - thank you! New subscriber and fan right here
Thanks for the sub, Matthew! Good to have you on board.
I found Marty on RUclips back in the 2000s. At times the only purpose in my life was to learn something new on guitar. That means you also are responsible for improving the quality of life for myself and others. Thank you for your gift.
Thanks, Fred. That means a lot to me.
“The only purpose?” 😢
@MarkEWallace Yep....."At times". Read that again. I was young with no wife, no kids, drinking heavily, going from woman to woman. Needed something healthy to focus on so I focused on guitar. Kept me out of bars, kept money in my pocket, kept me sane. Now I have an awesome, high paying job. I have 2 kids and next week my wife and I celebrate 15 years together.
@@fredtaylor9792 ❤️🎸
Great information thank you for your thoughts
My pleasure, Prog. Thanks for being here~
Chris great lesson I hope I cN keep pulling up your channel I understand your lesson voia
Great to have you here!
You’re a great teacher and I’m glad I found your channel. I just sent a small donation your way to help the channel out. Cheers!
That was more than generous, Stephen, thank you very much, and I'm so glad the channel has been helpful for you.
Just listened to Grey Planet. Very cool man, love it!
Man these theory videos are great! He does a great job of simplifying concepts that have always been a thorn in my side. Time to practice some major scales :)
So glad you’re enjoying these! The major scale is the glue for it all…once you really get it down, everything starts to fall into place
Great lesson, how useful! Thank-you 👏
Of course!
this is the most important guitar lesson ever !!! thank you so much Chris !
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for the views and comment!
I am going to RE Watch this as I know the Major scale and the Minor but need to know it better = Thank you
Yeah, I don’t think you can “over know” these scales. It’s always good to brush up!!
I love your emphasis on the simple foundation. I think adding the upper and lower terra cord info. would be helpful. Especially when people start to study the circle of fifths. I have a reading handy cap and it helps me.
Yes the tetra chord info is helpful. Seeing the whole structure seems a bit more useful when you begin to alter it, but that is my experience. I can totally see how breaking it in half could be easier to track.
I'll ponder the tetra chord idea, there's definitely a video in there! Thank you for the suggestion.
Chris you are a phenomenal teacher. Loving your channel. I had no idea - you were Marty Schwartz guitar teacher. I can see why.
Thanks Michael, great to have you here and so glad you’re enjoying the channel.
@@curiousguitarist I am telling "Everyone" to get on board with you. You explain things in the most clear, concise and easily-digestible manner. Happy Holidays brother from NYC
@@michael_caz_nyc you too friend! thank you for spreading the word!
Love me a bit of exotic Harmonic Minor!!!
Fab lesson Chris, as always!! 🤘🤘🤘🤘
Thanks JG!
Literally blew my mind!... thank you!
That’s great to hear!
Thank you Chris! All your lessons are amazingly informative. Can’t thank u enough. 😃
My pleasure, David. Thanks for the views and comments.
Brilliant, Chris
Great lesson. Thx
Your a wizard Chris! You make Magic happen! Thank you!
Wow, thanks, Scott. I appreciate that, and all your support!
Great video Chris! I find the 3NPS patterns to be incredibly helpful tools for visualizing modes and alternate minor scales.
Totally agree, Mike! There are SO many ways to look at the scale itself, and eventually, as you incorporate more and more ways to view it, all of the smoke lifts and it all appears to be one thing.
Thanks for all your support!
You sir explain things so clearly, thank you
You, sir, are most welcome!
Superb lesson Chris thanks
You bet Mikey!
This is exactly what I was looking for ! Thank you so much !
You are SO welcome.
Hey Chris, awesome lesson! It deserves a second and a third watch to really sink in. Thank you. I will be subscribing to your Patreon for sure. Some sweet tones out of that Les Paul btw
Thanks Timothy! I'll keep an eye out!