String Skipping in "E"

In order to obtain maximum speed, it is often useful to combine techniques. The example below demonstrates this with the combination of string skipping and legato pull-offs.

"E" Minor Pentatonic/Aeolian

1-b3-5-b7 is the spelling for the minor pentatonic scale. It's that small, yet significant, flat half-step at the 3rd that gives this chord its minor sound. So, in the key of "E", the notes are E-G-A-B-D. Note, however, that there is a b6 ("C") in this example. That is the influence of the Aeolian scale. Combining scales within a single lick requires knowledge of what each scale sounds like on their own.

 

Example

Nimble fingers are required here. This is what is referred to as a "phone dailing" lick. After you play it enough times, it becomes automatic like dailing the phone number to your best friend's house. Motor skills are refined by repetition making practice imperative for speed and accuracy. Also, the "B" at the nineteenth fret is tapped with your right hand while sliding up to the "C" and then back again before the pull-off to the "A". This example should be played in straight sixteenth notes. Remember, this run is in the key of "E" minor.

 

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