Guitar Nine Focus: Scales

Whether composing, improvising, or simply practicing technique, the importance of scales cannot be underestimated. Scales are organized sequences of notes played in an ascending or descending order that can help players build finger strength and dexterity, as well as help the improvisor/composer to establish moods and tell a story. Within any linear sequence of notes, you'll typically hear musical tension and resolution. While many guitarists begin their training with the 5-note Pentatonic scale, there is much to learn and absorb with the variety of scales that can be applied in creative ways over a myriad of chord progressions.

Here are dozens of articles by our columnists that have appeared over the years on the subject of scales, scale patterns, scale connection and more.