Three Note Per String Patterns
(18 Feb 03)
The patterns
No.1 (starting on the root of the major scale)
No.2 (starting on the second degree of the major scale)
No.3 (starting on the third degree of the major scale)
No.4 (starting on the fourth degree of the major scale)
No.5 (starting on the fifth degree of the major scale)
No.6 (starting on the sixth degree of the major scale)
No.7 (starting on the seventh degree of the major scale)
To me, those were easier to memorize than the regular major patterns, I don't really know why. Look at the first pattern: from the low to the high E-string, the notes go: Root-WT (Whole Tone)-WT
First note on the next string is at the same fret as the one on the lower string, and again, it's two whole tone steps. Then it's one half tone and one WT for the next two strings, and finally one WT and one HT for the highest two strings.
It's up to you to find a method how to memorize them. I personally think it is the easiest way to use each one on it's own for a while. I.e. memorize the first pattern, and use it to create some licks or improvise on it.
Once you feel comfortable with it, move to the next.
Don't do it too fast.
Let's take a look at a few sequences and licks that do not only sound cool, but might help you to practise using those patterns, to memorize them.
One important thing though:
Some of those patterns require some wide stretches, especially if you use them in the lower areas of the neck. If you i.e. play pattern 1 in F Major, starting on the F at the 1st fret of the low E-string, you have to play the note at the first fret with your index finger, then the one at the 3rd fret with your middle- or ring finger (I'll leave it to you to pick which one you wanna use... I'd use the ring finger in most cases), and finally the note at the 5th fret with your pinkie. That is a wide stretch. I find it easier to execute it by leaving your thumb behind the neck, parallel to it (like a classical guitarist).
That way, you can stretch a bit more.
Here are two pictures of my left hand playing stretches like that:
And remember: if it hurts, stop!
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