The blues scale is a musical scale that is commonly used in blues music. It is a six-note scale, and it is used to create the blues sound that is so characteristic of this style. The blues scale can be played on many instruments, including the alto saxophone. In this article, we will explore the blues scale for the alto saxophone and how to play it.
What is the Blues Scale?
The blues scale is a six-note scale that consists of the following notes: C, Eb, F, Gb, G, and Bb. It is a variation of the minor pentatonic scale and is commonly used in blues music. The blues scale has a unique sound that is both melancholic and powerful, making it a favorite among musicians and listeners alike.
Playing the Blues Scale on the Alto Saxophone
To play the blues scale on the alto saxophone, you need to know the fingerings for each note. Here are the fingerings for the blues scale on the alto saxophone:
- C: 1, 2, 3
- Eb: 1, 2, 3, bis
- F: 1, 2, bis
- Gb: 1, bis
- G: 1, 2, 3, low C
- Bb: 1, 2, 3, bis, low C
Once you know the fingerings for each note, you can practice playing the blues scale up and down the instrument. Start by playing the scale slowly and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable with the fingerings.
Using the Blues Scale in Improvisation
The blues scale is often used in improvisation, especially in blues and jazz music. When improvising with the blues scale, you can play the notes of the scale in any order and with any rhythm you like. You can also add notes from other scales and arpeggios to create more complex and interesting melodies.
When using the blues scale in improvisation, it is important to listen to the other musicians you are playing with and respond to what they are playing. This will help you create a cohesive and interesting musical conversation.
Common Blues Progressions
The blues scale is often used over common blues progressions. A blues progression is a series of chords that are played in a specific order. Here are some common blues progressions:
- 12-bar blues: I IV V
- 16-bar blues: I IV I IV V IV
- 24-bar blues: I IV I IV V IV I IV
You can use the blues scale to improvise over these progressions, creating interesting melodies and solos that complement the chords.
Conclusion
The blues scale is an essential tool for any saxophonist who wants to play blues music. By learning the fingerings for the scale and practicing it regularly, you can develop your ability to improvise and create interesting melodies. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, the blues scale is a valuable addition to your musical arsenal.