Guitar Nine Columns: Guest Columnists

The pentatonic scale contains 5 notes; the melodic combinations you have to work with are endless.

Creativity takes practice, just like anything else.

Learn the essence of blues, in the key of G.

It’s really not about how fast technically advanced it is, but rather how it is phrased.

This scale is most common in jazz, but can be applied to any style of music.

Let's explode this myth.

Let's get those creative wheels turning, shall we?

Mavers-Chance catches up with Andy James at Tech Fest.

Taking the diminished scale and incorporating it with a basic blues scale box.

Answering yes to this question may be a little deceiving.

Koto on guitar - let's get exotic, shall we?

More about the chords, triads, and arpeggios that are built from the major scale.

Some rare studio gems which can be found for under $500.

Is any time a good time to learn?

Even more ideas to spice up your arpeggio sequences by altering the order of the notes.

Let's see what we can do to overcome our hand's size.

Songwriting can’t be taught… can it?

If you know scales and chords, then you are ready to start learning music theory.

How ear training helps you develop skills that are at the core of your musicianship.

Time to build technique and spice up your arpeggio sequences by altering the order of the notes.

Is it possible to get by as a musician without learning to read music?

Think outside the box when it feels like you've already played everything of which you feel capable.

A collection of quotations to inspire and motivate.

This article is a great place to start if you are ready to learn music theory in a more useful and effective way.

Gaining knowledge of all the chords, triads, and arpeggios that are built from the major scale.

Did you know? Professional guitarists may spend at least 30% of their time refining this skill.

Now, Mike mixes up the rhythms when practicing scales to make things that much more interesting.

A list of six refreshing ways you can take care of yourself and get back to writing.

Showing the benefits of music education, and how it positively impacts the lives of students.

Remember: your unique intuition is the most important asset you possess.

Remember: your unique intuition is the most important asset you possess.

Building your chops while making practice time more interesting and even, fun.

Which instrument should you be using, and is it possible to get away with not using one at all?

Consider taking your playing to the next level - and melt some minds.

Tips on how to continue your understanding of music theory with the right foot forward.

Altering the sound of the pentatonic scale by plugging in an additional note.

Identifying and accurately defining each of the main guitar types.

Tommaso compares and contrasts CAGED and pentatonic scale systems.

Mike digs a little deeper into the Altered scale, aka Super Locrian.

Simon takes a close look at the use of chords in this popular tuning.

It's a misconception that inspiration is something that just appears out of thin air.

Check out the 12-string guitar, as well as the songs you could practice and learn from using this instrument.