The Natural Minor Scale
When using Pattern 1 to improvise against a minor chord progression, the same additional notes can be added but because the pattern is played in a different position a minor scale (called the natural minor scale) is created. It is shown here in the key of A minor (i.e., the A minor scale) in the fifth position.
To play this minor scale, commence on the keynote.
This minor scale can be used to improvise against a progression in the key of A minor but the emphasis would still be placed on the Pattern 1 notes with the additional notes being used occasionally.
Practice improvising with this pattern against the Minor Chord Progressions at the end of this lesson. This pattern is played at the same fret as the key note. Notice that it is the same pattern of notes as for the major scale but it is played in a different position. For more information on the natural minor scale, see Progressive Scales and Modes for Guitar .
Minor Scale Lick
Here is a minor scale lick. Practice it and apply it to the different Minor Key Progressions at the end of this lesson. You can also play the lick given for the major scale as it uses the same pattern of notes except it would be played 3 frets higher.
