Using the Blues scale

Improvising Over the Blues

So now we figured out the form for the blues: the 12 bars, using the three chords: F, B flat, and C.

The Blues Scale

How are we going to start improvising over this?

A great way to begin is to use the blues scale. This scale works perfectly when played over the blues.

The Blues Scale in F

The blues scale consists of the following notes:

• F
• A flat
• B flat
• B natural
• C
• E flat
• F

You may recognize the sound of this scale, as so much pop music, jazz, rock, and other great sounds are based within it.

Tips for Improvisation

When improvising, it's important not to just go up and down the scale, as that sounds more like a scale exercise. Instead, focus on playing the scale in interesting ways.

Using the Blues Scale Practically

If we take our blues form, we can overlay the blues scale and try to use it in slightly more creative ways than simply ascending and descending.

Example:

• What I'm doing now is using the blues scale, but playing it in more interesting combinations.
• I'm also thinking rhythmically and looking for ways to make things sound engaging.

Feel the Blues

Imagine yourself singing when you're doing this. The blues originates from vocal traditions of singing. Therefore, when you're playing, aim to feel it deep inside with every ounce of your being.

Remember: Improvisation is about expressing yourself to the world. The way we can achieve this is by developing theoretical knowledge, like the blues, and then applying it in practical ways.