How to Play the E Minor Harmonic Scale on the Guitar
By Riffhard Staff
Starting with the E Minor Harmonic scale on the guitar can feel like unlocking a new level in your playing. This scale has a mysterious, almost exotic sound loved by many metal guitarists. In this post, we’ll break down everything about the E Minor Harmonic scale—how to play it, where to use it, and why it’s so darn cool.
What Makes the E Minor Harmonic Scale Unique?
The E Minor Harmonic scale is not your everyday scale. It’s the secret sauce that gives many metal solos and riffs their unique flavor. What sets it apart is the raised seventh note, which adds a distinctive tension and drama to your music. This single note change gives the scale a more classical or neoclassical vibe, often used in metal to sound more aggressive or emotional.
Think of it like this: most minor scales have a melancholic tone. The harmonic minor scale, however, throws in a bit of spice. It’s like adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to your stew—it takes the whole thing to another level.
The Scale Formula
The formula for the E Minor Harmonic scale is:
E, F#, G, A, B, C, D#, E
Notice that D#? That’s the raised seventh. It’s the magic ingredient that changes everything.
Getting Started with the E Minor Harmonic Scale
Before you jump into playing fast solos, it’s crucial to understand the scale’s structure on the fretboard. You’ll find this scale throughout different positions on the neck, but we’ll start with the most common one.
First Position: The Open E String
Start on the open E string. From there, the notes follow this pattern:
- E (open string)
- F# (2nd fret)
- G (3rd fret)
- A (5th fret)
- B (7th fret)
- C (8th fret)
- D# (11th fret)
- E (12th fret)
Play these notes ascending and descending to get the feel of the scale under your fingers.
Second Position: Starting on the A String
Once comfortable, move to the A string:
- F# (9th fret)
- G (10th fret)
- A (12th fret)
- B (14th fret)
- C (15th fret)
- D# (18th fret)
- E (19th fret)
These positions will help you cover more of the fretboard, essential for playing fluid solos and riffs.
Techniques to Enhance Your Playing
Playing scales is one thing, but making them sound musical is another level entirely. Here are some techniques to bring the E Minor Harmonic scale to life:
Vibrato and Bending
Adding vibrato or bending notes can make your playing more expressive. Bend the D# to E for that classic metal sound. Vibrato adds life to sustained notes, making them resonate with more emotion.
Alternate Picking
For speed and precision, use alternate picking. It’s especially effective for the E Minor Harmonic scale because of its exotic sound. Practice with a metronome to keep your timing tight.
Legato
Legato, or smooth playing, involves hammer-ons and pull-offs. This technique can make fast passages sound fluid and effortless. Try a simple exercise: play E-F#-G-A using hammer-ons and pull-offs.
Practical Applications in Metal
The E Minor Harmonic scale is a staple in many metal genres. Let’s take a look at how you can incorporate this scale into your riffs and solos:
Neoclassical Influences
Guitarists like Yngwie Malmsteen have made this scale famous in the world of neoclassical metal. You can create sweeping arpeggios and fast runs using the E Minor Harmonic scale to evoke this style.
Dark, Brooding Riffs
Use the scale to write riffs that sound dark and mysterious. The tension created by the D# can add a haunting quality to your music, perfect for atmospheric sections or breakdowns.
Soloing
When soloing, use the E Minor Harmonic scale to create dramatic, tension-filled phrases. Combine it with other scales, like the natural minor or pentatonic, for variety.
If you’re looking for expert advice on expanding your metal guitar skills, Riffhard offers lessons from top guitarists who excel in these techniques.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
While the E Minor Harmonic scale is exciting, it comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some common hurdles and how to tackle them:
Finger Stretching
The wide intervals in this scale can be tough on the fingers. Practice stretching exercises to increase your reach and improve finger independence.
Speed and Precision
To play fast, you need both speed and precision. Start slow, focusing on clean, accurate notes. Gradually increase your speed as your comfort level rises.
Staying in Key
It’s easy to stray from the scale, especially when improvising. Practice playing over backing tracks to develop your ear and ensure you stay in key.
For more personalized guidance, our instructors at Riffhard offer tips to improve your technique and overcome these challenges.
Exploring Different Positions
Playing the E Minor Harmonic scale across the fretboard opens up creative possibilities. Here’s how you can explore different positions:
The Three-Note-Per-String Method
This method involves playing three notes per string, allowing for fluid, fast runs. Here’s a tab to get you started:
e|----------------------------11-12-14-|
B|----------------------12-13----------|
G|-----------------11-12---------------|
D|----------11-12-14-------------------|
A|-----12-14---------------------------|
E|-12-14-------------------------------|
Practice this pattern to build speed and dexterity.
Combining Positions
Blend multiple positions to move up and down the neck smoothly. This approach makes your playing more dynamic and less predictable.
Octave Shifts
Use octave shifts for added variety. Jump an octave up or down to create contrasting sections within your solos.
Our lessons at Riffhard include detailed breakdowns of these techniques, demonstrated by top metal guitarists.
Creating Melodic Phrases
Scales are not just for shredding, they can create beautiful melodies too. Here’s how you can craft melodic phrases using the E Minor Harmonic scale:
Phrase Development
Start by playing short, simple phrases. Gradually expand these into longer, more complex lines. Focus on musicality rather than speed.
Thematic Variations
Create a theme using a few notes, then vary it throughout the solo. This technique keeps your solos interesting and cohesive.
Balancing Tension and Release
The raised seventh creates tension. Resolve this tension by landing on the root note or other stable notes to provide a sense of resolution.
For more creative ideas, our lessons at Riffhard cover melodic phrasing in detail, helping you craft solos that captivate.
Using the Scale in Songwriting
The E Minor Harmonic scale isn’t just for solos—it’s a powerful tool for songwriting too. Here’s how to incorporate it into your compositions:
Building Chord Progressions
The unique intervals of the scale can lead to unconventional chord progressions. Experiment with chords that use the scale’s notes to create fresh harmonic landscapes.
Modulating Between Keys
Use the scale to transition between keys smoothly. Its tension can create a sense of movement and development in your music.
Creating Moods
Use the scale to evoke specific emotions. The E Minor Harmonic scale is great for creating a dark, mysterious mood—perfect for metal, but also for any genre seeking that extra edge.
Collaborative Writing
When writing with others, use the scale to add a new layer of complexity to your compositions. Other musicians will appreciate the fresh perspective and unique sound.
Improvising with the E Minor Harmonic Scale
Improvisation is a great way to get comfortable with the E Minor Harmonic scale. Here are some tips to help you improvise effectively:
Building Confidence
Start by playing the scale slowly. Get familiar with the sound of each note, and practice transitioning smoothly between them.
Utilizing Backing Tracks
Playing along with a backing track helps you stay in key and develop a sense of timing. Choose a track in E minor to start, then gradually try different keys as you become more confident.
Experiment with Phrasing
Try different rhythms and note combinations to create interesting phrases. Don’t be afraid to experiment—sometimes the best musical ideas come from happy accidents.
Incorporating Techniques
Once you’re comfortable with the scale, start adding techniques like bends, slides, and vibrato. These elements can make a simple scale sound complex and dynamic.
For inspiration, check out our Riffhard lessons featuring some of the most innovative metal guitarists. They can show you how to incorporate the E Minor Harmonic scale into your improvisations.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even seasoned players can stumble into these common pitfalls. Here’s how to avoid some of the most frequent mistakes when playing the E Minor Harmonic scale:
Overusing the D#
While the D# adds an exotic touch, overusing it can make your music sound predictable. Use it sparingly to keep the tension fresh and engaging.
Ignoring Other Scales
Relying solely on the E Minor Harmonic scale can limit your musical expression. Mixing it with other scales, like the natural minor or the pentatonic minor, keeps your playing dynamic and interesting.
Neglecting Rhythm
Don’t get so caught up in the notes that you forget about rhythm. A good sense of rhythm is essential for making your playing sound polished and professional.
Relying on Patterns
While patterns can help you navigate the fretboard, relying on them too much can make your playing sound mechanical. Focus on playing musically, not just mechanically.
If you’re looking for more guidance, our experts at Riffhard are here to help you avoid these common missteps.
Improving Your E Minor Harmonic Scale Mastery
Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to refine your skills. Here are a few ways to take your E Minor Harmonic scale playing to the next level:
Practice with Purpose
- Set specific goals for each practice session.
- Focus on one position or technique at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Slow down difficult passages until you can play them perfectly, then gradually increase speed.
Record Yourself
Listening to recordings of your playing can be enlightening. You’ll hear things you might not notice while you’re playing, allowing you to identify areas for improvement.
Incorporate Backing Tracks
Use a variety of backing tracks to practice your scales in different contexts. This helps you adapt to different musical settings and develop your own style.
Wrapping Your Head Around Theory
Understanding the theory behind the E Minor Harmonic scale can deepen your appreciation and mastery of it. Let’s break it down:
Interval Structure
The E Minor Harmonic scale consists of the following intervals:
- Root (E)
- Major second (F#)
- Minor third (G)
- Perfect fourth (A)
- Perfect fifth (B)
- Minor sixth (C)
- Major seventh (D#)
- Octave (E)
Understanding these intervals will help you recognize how the scale differs from the natural minor and major scales.
Creating Tension and Resolution
The raised seventh (D#) is what gives the E Minor Harmonic scale its distinct sound. Use it to create tension, and then resolve that tension by resolving to the root note (E) or another stable note within the scale.
Exploring Chord Progressions
Try building chord progressions using the notes of the E Minor Harmonic scale. For example, you could play E minor, F# diminished, G major, A minor, B major, C major, and D# diminished. Experiment with different combinations to discover new sounds.
For those who want to dive deeper into music theory, Riffhard offers excellent resources and expert guidance to help you understand the intricacies of scales and their applications in modern metal.
Building Speed with the E Minor Harmonic Scale
One of the most exciting aspects of playing the E Minor Harmonic scale is its potential for fast runs and thrilling solos. Here’s how you can build speed effectively:
Start Slow
Fast playing begins with slow and deliberate practice. Focus on accuracy and clean transitions between notes before gradually increasing your speed.
Use a Metronome
A metronome is an invaluable tool for developing speed. Start at a slow tempo, and gradually increase it as you become more comfortable with the scale. This will help you build precision and maintain timing.
Practice Alternate Picking
Alternate picking is key for fast playing. Practice the E Minor Harmonic scale using strict alternate picking, focusing on keeping each note clear and defined. Start with downstrokes and alternate with upstrokes to build speed and control.
Economy Picking
Economy picking is another technique to explore, especially for faster passages. It combines alternate picking and sweep picking, allowing for smoother transitions between notes. Practice slowly, focusing on evenness and control.
Incorporating the E Minor Harmonic Scale with Other Scales
The E Minor Harmonic scale can be combined with other scales to create more varied and interesting solos. Here’s how you can blend it with other common scales:
Natural Minor Scale
The natural minor scale is a great complement to the E Minor Harmonic scale. Use both scales to create contrast and add depth to your solos.
Melodic Minor Scale
The melodic minor scale is another great option. It shares many notes with the E Minor Harmonic scale, allowing for smooth transitions and a cohesive sound.
Experiment with Modes
Try incorporating modes like Phrygian Dominant or Dorian to add even more color to your playing. These modes can add new flavors to your music, keeping it fresh and exciting.
Using Riffhard to Master the E Minor Harmonic Scale
While practicing on your own is great, sometimes you need a little extra guidance. Riffhard offers lessons from some of the best modern metal guitarists in the world, focusing on rhythm techniques and more. Our lessons can help you master the E Minor Harmonic scale and incorporate it into your playing with ease.
Final Thoughts
Playing the E Minor Harmonic scale on the guitar can be a game-changer for your musical journey. Its unique sound can add depth and drama to your playing, making your solos and compositions stand out. To explore this scale further and refine your skills, consider checking out our lessons on Riffhard. We have tutorials from the world’s best metal guitarists to help you take your playing to the next level. Keep practicing, stay patient, and enjoy the process of becoming a better guitarist. Happy shredding!