Hi fam,

Here is the latest episode of the Improv Loop series for you to check out. This time we are transitioning from playing over major chords to playing over minor chords. To do this, we will look at how to use only one scale shape to play over any major or minor chord you may encounter.

The classic minor pentatonic scale (you know, the one with the lowest root note on the low E string that you play with your 1st finger) can be used to improvise over minor chords or major chords. In order to use it to play over a minor chord, all you have to do is move the root note with your 1st finger to the root note of the corresponding chord over which you are playing. For example, in order to use this minor pentatonic scale to play over an A minor chord, you just play the scale starting with your 1st finger an A note on the 5th fret of the low E string.

You can also use the same minor pentatonic scale shape to play over an A major chord. All you have to do is start on the same A note but with your pinky this time. It’s like starting on the 2nd note of the scale shape and just making sure that the 2nd note is that A on the 5th fret of the low E string. If this sounds confusing, that’s okay. The video explains this in great detail with loads of graphics to make things super-clear.

Keep is simple at first, and concentrate on moving the scale shape around to the proper locations to play over an A major chord and an A minor chord. Give the video a watch, and let us know about any questions or comments that come up. Of course, we have a jam track/loop to help you practice the concepts presented in the video.

See you later,

Nate