The "C" Scale Shape
Points to Remember:
• I’ll show how to play each of the 5 scale shapes in the key of D. That’s because I can start with the C shape at the far end of the neck, then work up the neck showing the other shapes (A, G, E, D), all in the key of D major.
• You’re supposed to know the string names by now! 😉 In case you’re not sure: 6th string (lowest sound--closest to your face) is “E,” 5th: “A,” 4th: “D,” 3rd: “G,” 2nd: “B,” 1st (highest sound--closest to the floor): “E” (Remember this sentence: Eddie Ate Dynamite, Good Bye Eddie!)
• After you learn the basic shape, try to use a metronome or drum track to keep a consistent tempo while you practice it. There are a couple online metronomes in the Links section of this site, and drums tracks can be found in the Backing Tracks section.
• Start slow and concentrate on playing consistently and smoothly (legato, not staccato).
• Try to keep your fingers fairly close to the fingerboard--you’ll get more efficient movement that way.
• When you're ready, move to alternating picking (down-up-down-up). This way it becomes a picking practice, as well.
• Remember to play the shape all up and down the neck: It’s completely movable!