How to Play the B Minor Whole Tone Scale on the Guitar

You’ve probably heard about various scales on the guitar, but the B Minor Whole Tone Scale? Now that’s something that might not come up often in daily guitar chats. This scale is a fascinating one, mostly because it adds an unusual flavor to your playing. Whether you’re into metal, jazz, or just about any genre that appreciates a good twist, this scale can add a unique sound to your toolbox. So, let’s break down how you can get this scale under your fingers, and how it can spice up your playing.

What’s the Whole Tone Scale Anyway?

The whole tone scale is one of those quirky scales that doesn’t get as much limelight as the pentatonics or blues scales, but it has its charm. It’s called the “whole tone scale” because it’s made up entirely of whole steps (or tones), meaning there’s no half step in sight. This gives it a dreamy, floating quality that can sound both mysterious and a little unsettling, making it a great tool for creating tension and surprise in your music.

Playing the B Minor Whole Tone Scale means you’re essentially moving in whole steps starting from B. This results in a collection of notes that are spaced equally, which is unusual compared to most scales that mix whole and half steps. This uniformity can lead to some pretty cool patterns on the fretboard, as you’ll see shortly.

How to Find It on the Fretboard

Finding the B Minor Whole Tone Scale on your guitar is like solving a puzzle where every piece is the same shape and size. Start on the B note and proceed to move up in whole steps. Here’s what that looks like across the fretboard:

E|------------------|------------------|------------------|------------------|
B|------------------|------------------|------5-7---------|------9-----------|
G|------------------|------4-6---------|------8-----------|------------------|
D|------2-4---------|------6-----------|------------------|------------------|
A|------2-----------|------------------|------------------|------------------|
E|------------------|------------------|------------------|------------------|

This pattern might seem a bit odd at first because it doesn’t follow the conventional spacing you might be used to with, say, a minor pentatonic scale. But once you get it under your fingers, it’s a lot easier to navigate than it looks.

Practicing the Scale: Start Slow and Steady

Like with any new scale, it’s essential to start slowly and get comfortable with the fingerings. Begin by practicing the scale in a single position, ensuring you’re hitting each note cleanly. As you grow more comfortable, gradually increase your speed. This is where a custom metronome can be incredibly useful, allowing you to slowly build up your tempo while maintaining accuracy.

One fantastic way to get a grip on this scale is to incorporate it into your practice routine. We at Riffhard offer a custom metronome specifically designed for guitar practice, which can help you improve your timing and precision as you work through the scale.

Using the Scale in Metal: Unleash the Unpredictable

Incorporating the B Minor Whole Tone Scale into your metal riffs can create a unique and unpredictable sound. Its dissonant nature can add a layer of tension and aggression that’s perfect for heavy music. Try using it in a breakdown or a solo section to catch your listeners off guard and keep them on the edge of their seats.

Here’s a simple riff idea using the B Minor Whole Tone Scale:

E|------------------|------------------|------------------|------------------|
B|------------------|------------------|------------------|------------------|
G|------------------|------------------|------------------|------------------|
D|------2-----------|------4-----------|------6-----------|------8-----------|
A|------2-----------|------4-----------|------6-----------|------8-----------|
E|------------------|------------------|------------------|------------------|

Play around with these notes, and you might stumble upon something that sounds both chaotic and structured – a hallmark of a great metal riff.

Exploring Other Genres: Jazz and Beyond

The whole tone scale isn’t just for metalheads. Jazz musicians have been using it for years to add a touch of mystery to their solos. The scale’s symmetrical nature makes it perfect for creating lines that sound both alien and familiar. It’s an excellent tool for improvisation, allowing you to weave unexpected twists into your solos.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating the B Minor Whole Tone Scale into a jazz blues progression. You’ll find that its unique sound can bring a fresh perspective to a classic form.

Connecting the Dots: Patterns and Shapes

One of the strengths of the whole tone scale is its simplicity in terms of patterns. Because it’s made entirely of whole steps, you can slide the scale shape up or down the neck and it remains the same. This makes it an excellent choice for quick runs and flashy passages.

Here’s a simple exercise you can try:

• Start at the 7th fret on the low E string.
• Play the scale pattern up the neck, moving up two frets at a time.
• Focus on keeping your picking hand relaxed and your movements smooth.

This exercise will not only improve your familiarity with the scale but also help build speed and fluidity in your playing.

Combining with Other Scales: A Recipe for Creativity

While the whole tone scale is unique, it doesn’t exist in isolation. Combining it with other scales can open up a world of creative possibilities. For example, try mixing it with the B minor pentatonic scale. You’ll find that the contrast between the familiar pentatonic sound and the whole tone scale’s unusual intervals can lead to some very interesting musical ideas.

Experiment with alternating between the two scales in your solos. This can keep your audience engaged and wondering what’s coming next.

Riffhard’s Role in Your Journey

Here at Riffhard, we believe in providing guitarists with the tools they need to explore and expand their musical horizons. Our collection of lessons, taught by some of the world’s leading metal guitarists, can help you master not just the B Minor Whole Tone Scale, but any technique you set your sights on.

Our interactive video player lets you slow down lessons, making it easier to learn complex scales and techniques at your own pace. Plus, with downloadable tabs and Guitar Pro files, you’ll have everything you need to practice effectively.

Final Thoughts

The B Minor Whole Tone Scale is more than just a collection of notes, it’s a gateway to new sounds and ideas. Whether you’re looking to add an unusual twist to your metal riffs or explore new avenues in jazz, this scale has something to offer. And remember, if you’re looking for guidance or inspiration, Riffhard is here to help, providing lessons from some of the best in the business. Happy playing!