Circuit Training: Unit 6 - Major Scale or Ionian Mode

Hello and welcome to circuit training!

Introduction

Chris, I think it's about time that we looked at some scales. Let's start by exploring the Ionian mode (or major scale) alongside some advanced scale and arpeggio patterns.

Learning Techniques

I have found the easiest and fastest way to learn some of these patterns is by playing them in a crabwise formation.

• Aural Memory & Musical Phrases
  Developing your aural memory and instrumental skills by making up your own short musical phrases and then playing them through all the keys is an excellent skill to acquire.

Chris, could you play some different note patterns to illustrate? You can then go on to take each pattern and try them in different keys. And don't stop there. You can go on and make up your own patterns just like the jazz players do.

Thank you, Chris.

Spider Scales

Spider scales are, for me, the quickest and most efficient way of playing through all the patterns.

• Keep It Fresh
  Keep yourself mentally and musically fresh by changing the rhythms and articulations. Chris, could you illustrate one by playing, say, sevens?

Good Practice

When playing these advanced patterns, it's a good idea to keep balanced and focused.

• Instrument Positioning
  • Keep the instrument still and firm in the left hand to avoid unwanted stress on the embouchure.
  • Keep the instrument still when taking a breath, maintaining the top lip connected to the mouthpiece and breathing through the corners to enhance the melodic line.

Example: Crabwise Arpeggio Study

I'm now going to play the crabwise arpeggio study on page 30.

• Rhythm Variation
  Fives are a great rhythm and get you away from the predictable four-four up-and-down formula. They're great fun!
  • It's interesting to note that this rhythm is a palindromic rhythm, i.e., like the name "Hannah," it's the same forwards and backwards.

By the way, Fives for H on Bones is published by Warwick.

Conclusion

In Unit 6, Major Scale or Ionian Mode, we have covered a lot of material.

• Key Topics
  • Major crabwise scales
  • Aural memory
  • Major crabwise arpeggios
  • Sevens and fives

To consolidate, play the complete unit once again. And don't forget that all we've discussed can be found in Circuit Training volume.