Do you feel like there's no end to the number of guitar scale patterns and every other one you find seems to be different and unrelated, even though they have similar titles?
In this reference chart we're focusing on the concept of learning something new by comparing it with a similar alternative you already know. In our case, we are comparing Locrian with the Phrygian mode, side-by-side, note-by-note, highlighting the changes. You'll see how a "new" pattern is derived from an existing pattern, and from that point onwards you'll not think of the new pattern as "unrelated" anymore.
The biggest advantage of this approach is that you don't have to memorize a whole new scale pattern. Instead, you only need to learn the changes. Plus, we're using a 3NPS system which is consistent and predictable by design. What that means for you is that even with these changes all patterns still remain strictly 3-notes-per-string.
Our ultimate goal is for you to think in terms of "this new scale is like this other one I know except for one small change". Once you make this connection, you'll have nailed the concept!
Chart features
Minimalistic. This reference has a minimalistic design with no extra guidance and with scale notes shown as empty shapes providing a clean, uncluttered look. It's perfect for seasoned guitar players or simply those who want extra focus.
Side-by-side. 2 patterns that are being compared are placed visually side-by-side, so you can easily hop back and forth between the two to see the changes.
Relevant highlighting only. To help you stay focused on the relevant changes, I've deliberately avoided highlighting anything that could be distracting, such as the roots. The roots are still indicated by square shapes, but they are not color-coded differently to avoid drawing too much attention to them.
7 patterns. The changes are shown for each of the available seven 3NPS patterns, so you had the complete set to analyze and experiment with.
Movable patterns. You can shift any pattern so that its root note aligns with the root note of your choice.
Tips and insights
One scale family. Locrian scale is the 7th mode of the Major scale and the Phrygian scale is the 3rd mode of the Major scale. Notice how in both cases they are modes of one and the same Major scale—in this instance we say that these modes are "relative one to another".
What this practically means in the context of guitar patterns is that, if you really want to, you can use any of the 14 patterns given in this reference to produce both of the scales that we are comparing here just by changing the note you start playing the pattern from. That's a useful feature of relative modes. Make no mistake though, that doesn't make them any "better" ;).
I'll omit any further details because this is not the focus of this particular reference chart, but I just wanted to mention it here as well. The reason I give such additional bits of information where I feel it's relevant is with the intention that it helps complete the puzzle you might be "solving" in your mind, create an "aha" moment, and if it did, then that's all that matters. And even if not, then you'll start asking the right questions and eventually get the whole picture :)
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