Member-only story

Unlocking the Minor Blues Scales: A Guide for Moderate Level Pianists

Eric Hayes

·11.2k Followers· Follow

Published in Piano Blues: Playing Minor Blues Scales Songs On The Piano For Moderate Level Pianists

5 min read

959 View Claps

86 Respond

Save

Listen

Piano Blues: Playing Minor Blues Scales & Songs on the Piano for Moderate Level Pianists

by John Wallace

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	24281 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	359 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

The minor blues scale, with its haunting melodies and evocative harmonies, holds a prominent place in the realm of blues music. For piano players seeking to delve into this captivating genre, mastering the minor blues scales is an essential step. In this comprehensive guide, we will embark on a musical journey, exploring the theory, techniques, and popular songs that will empower moderate level pianists to play minor blues scales songs with confidence and expression.

Understanding the Minor Blues Scale

The minor blues scale is a six-note scale that forms the basis of many blues melodies. It consists of the following notes:

1 - Root
♭3 - Flattened third
4 - Perfect fourth
♭5 - Flattened fifth
5 - Perfect fifth
♭7 - Flattened seventh

The flattened third and seventh intervals give the minor blues scale its characteristic "blue" sound. Compared to the natural minor scale, the minor blues scale has a more intense and expressive quality.

Essential Piano Techniques

To effectively play minor blues scales songs on the piano, several techniques are crucial:

1. Fingerings

Proper fingerings ensure smooth and efficient scale passages. For the right hand, a common fingering for the minor blues scale is 1-2-3-1-2-3. Experiment with different fingerings to find what works best for you.

2. Trills

Trills, rapid alternations between two adjacent notes, are a characteristic blues technique. Practice trilling between the root and flattened third intervals, as well as other note combinations within the scale.

3. Glissandi

Glissandi, sliding from one note to another, add a touch of expression to blues playing. Experiment with different speeds and finger movements to create unique glissandi effects.

Popular Minor Blues Scales Songs

Numerous popular blues songs utilize the minor blues scale. Here are a few examples:

1. "The Thrill is Gone" by B.B. King

The Thrill Is Gone Minor Blues Scale Song By B.B. King Piano Blues: Playing Minor Blues Scales Songs On The Piano For Moderate Level Pianists

This iconic blues ballad showcases the minor blues scale in its full glory. Its haunting melody and poignant lyrics have made it a timeless classic.

2. "Hoochie Coochie Man" by Muddy Waters

Hoochie Coochie Man Minor Blues Scale Song By Muddy Waters Piano Blues: Playing Minor Blues Scales Songs On The Piano For Moderate Level Pianists

A legendary blues anthem, "Hoochie Coochie Man" features a driving minor blues scale-based riff. Its hypnotic groove and powerful lyrics have cemented its place in blues history.

3. "Crossroads" by Robert Johnson

Crossroads Minor Blues Scale Song By Robert Johnson Piano Blues: Playing Minor Blues Scales Songs On The Piano For Moderate Level Pianists

This haunting masterpiece by Robert Johnson showcases the minor blues scale's ability to evoke a sense of mystery and longing. Its introspective lyrics and haunting melody have made it a blues standard.

Blues Chord Progressions

Minor blues scales songs often employ specific chord progressions that provide harmonic support and structure. Here are two common progressions:

1. 12-bar Blues Progression

This classic blues progression consists of three four-bar sections:

I - I - I - I IV - IV - I - I V - IV - I - I

2. 8-bar Blues Progression

A simpler variation of the 12-bar progression, the 8-bar progression repeats the same four-bar sequence twice:

I - I - I - I IV - IV - I - I

Blues Improvisation

Improvisation is a key aspect of blues playing. Once you have mastered the minor blues scale and basic techniques, you can start experimenting with improvisation.

Start by playing simple phrases and licks over the minor blues scale. Gradually expand your improvisations by adding trills, glissandi, and other techniques. Listen to recordings of great blues improvisers and try to emulate their phrasing and style.

Playing minor blues scales songs on the piano is a rewarding and expressive musical endeavor. By understanding the theory, mastering essential techniques, and practicing popular songs, moderate level pianists can unlock the captivating world of the minor blues scale. Embrace the blues spirit, let your fingers dance across the keys, and create your own unforgettable minor blues scales masterpieces.

Piano Blues: Playing Minor Blues Scales & Songs on the Piano for Moderate Level Pianists

by John Wallace

5 out of 5