The blues scale is the scale mostly used to improvise over 12 bar blues pieces. This article will explain 5 positions (patterns) of this scale on the guitar fretboard. The examples and diagrams are in the key of A. However, all the patterns are exactly the same in other keys. To apply them to pieces in different keys, all you will need to do is play the patterns starting on the relevant root note.

Blues Scale Pattern 1

Below is pattern 1 of the blues scale. The horizontal lines are the strings (The 1st string is the top line). The vertical lies are the frets. The black dots are where you place your fingers on the fretboard. The red dot is the root note of the scale. In the example below, note A is the root note.

Play the scale above. When you can play it comfortably, press play on the track below and improvise over it using the notes of the scale.

Blues in A

Blues Scale Pattern 2

Below is the blues scale in A again. However, this time it is in a higher position on the guitar fretboard. When you move the scale to a higher position, the notes are the same. However, some of the notes may be an octave higher. Press play on the track above and improvise over it using pattern 2.

Blues Scale Pattern 3

Pattern 3 starts on the 10th fret. As before, learn to play this pattern. Then, press play on the track above and improvise over it.

Blues Scale Pattern 4

Pattern 4 is easily found on the fretboard as its root is on the 5th string. Learn this pattern now and then experiment improvising with the track above.

Blues Scale Pattern 5

The last pattern of this blues scale we are going to learn can either be played on the 5th or 17th fret as shown below. Learn this pattern and as before experiment improvising with it using the track above.

The Complete Blues Scale in A

Below are all the patterns you have just learned. Your final goal is to improvise using all the patterns. Plesae note that when you move from one pattern to another, you may need to use different fingers for practicality and ease of changing. Have fun.

Want to learn more? If you would like to learn to improvise using the minor pentatonic scale click here. To learn to improvise, using the major pentatonic scale, click here. Finally, click here to find out more about our guitar lessons at Do Re Mi Studios.

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