Sequences
One of the best ways to practice scales and modes is the use of sequences. A sequence is a repetitive pattern in which the rhythm remains the same while the pitches are repeated higher or lower, usually within a specific scale or mode. Practicing sequences will help you to become more familiar with the scale or mode you are learning as well as enabling you to create melodies more easily instead of just running up and down the scale. Here are some sequences within the C major scale.
This sequence uses intervals of a 3rd. Using all of the intervals up to an octave is an excellent way of becoming familiar with the musical possibilities of a scale. (For more on intervals see Progressive Jazz Lead Guitar Method .)
This sequence covers all of the notes in the modes you have learned. It is a good idea to practice any sequence across an entire fingering pattern.
Another important thing to keep in mind when practicing scales and modes is to use a variety of rhythms. Here is a sequence which applies a triplet pattern to the A Aeolian mode.
This sequence also uses notes in groups of three, but contains an eighth note and two sixteenth notes instead of the triplet.
One of the most common ways sequences are used in music is as a riff. A riff is a sequence which fits a specific chord or progression. A riff can be a set rhythm (exact repetition) or it can be altered to fit various chords. Here is a one bar riff applied to a chord progression which is derived from the A Aeolian mode. (For more on riffs and set rhythms, see Progressive Blues Lead Guitar Technique ).
To end this section, here is a solo which uses all of the natural notes contained in the various modes you have learned and is played over a chord progression which fits all seven of the modes.
