How to Play the G Major Whole Tone Scale on the Guitar

When it comes to scales, the G Major Whole Tone scale offers a unique palette of sounds that can add a fresh dimension to your guitar playing. This scale isn’t just for jazz cats—it’s a fantastic tool for any guitarist looking to break out of the pentatonic box and explore something a little more adventurous. Let’s dig into what makes this scale tick and how you can incorporate it into your playing.

Getting to Know the Whole Tone Scale

First off, what exactly is a Whole Tone scale? Unlike the more common Major or Minor scales, which consist of a mix of whole and half steps, the Whole Tone scale is made up entirely of whole steps. This gives it a dreamy, floating quality—perfect for adding an unexpected twist to your solos or compositions.

In the key of G, the Whole Tone scale looks like this: G, A, B, C#, D#, and F. Notice anything? Yep, only six notes here. That’s because the scale repeats itself every six notes, creating a symmetrical sound that feels both open and unresolved.

• G – The root note, of course.
• A – A whole step above G.
• B – Another whole step.
• C# – Continuing the pattern.
• D# – You guessed it, another whole step.
• F – The final whole step before we hit the repeat button.

Interestingly enough, because of its symmetrical nature, there are only two unique Whole Tone scales. Play around with this one in different contexts, and you’ll start to feel how it can add a little magic to your music.

Fingering the G Major Whole Tone Scale

Now that you’ve got the notes down, let’s talk about fingering. The beauty of the Whole Tone scale is its simplicity in terms of finger positions. You can use a consistent pattern across the fretboard, which makes it easier to shift between octaves and positions.

Here’s one way to play it starting from the 3rd fret on the low E string:

e|-------------------------------3--5--7--|
B|---------------------------4--6---------|
G|-------------------3--5--7--------------|
D|-------------4--6-----------------------|
A|-----3--5--7----------------------------|
E|-3--5-----------------------------------|

This pattern keeps things straightforward, allowing you to focus on the sound rather than getting tangled in finger gymnastics. Try sliding this pattern up and down the neck to see how it fits into different musical contexts.

While it’s hard to say for sure, many players find that this scale is a great way to break out of traditional patterns and start thinking more creatively. If you’re looking to spice up your solos or add an otherworldly feel to your riffs, this scale could be just what you need.

Practical Applications in Metal

You might be wondering, “How does a scale like this fit into metal?” Well, let’s dive into that. The Whole Tone scale’s eerie, dream-like quality makes it perfect for creating tension and release—key components in metal music.

Imagine you’re building up to a massive breakdown or solo section. Using the Whole Tone scale can add a sense of anticipation, leading into that heavy drop with an unexpected twist. The scale’s symmetrical nature also lends itself well to creating dissonant harmonies, which can be particularly effective in genres like black metal or djent.

Try this: Craft a riff using the G Whole Tone scale, then layer it with a second guitar part a whole tone apart. The result is a dissonant, unsettling harmony that can add depth and complexity to your track. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different rhythms and dynamics to see how the scale can enhance your compositions.

At Riffhard, some of the world’s best metal guitarists show how scales like these can be used to push boundaries. With lessons from artists like Dean Lamb and Jason Richardson, you can see firsthand how the pros incorporate unique scales into their own styles.

Improvisation Magic

If you’re a soloist, the Whole Tone scale can be your ticket to creating solos that stand out. Because it doesn’t resolve in the way traditional scales do, it keeps listeners on their toes, creating a sense of unpredictability.

Start by incorporating the Whole Tone scale into a solo over a static chord—like a G power chord. The lack of resolution keeps the tension high, making your solo feel more dynamic and engaging. Remember, the key here is subtlety. A little goes a long way, so use it as a spice rather than the main ingredient.

One trick is to combine the Whole Tone scale with more familiar scales like the G Minor Pentatonic. This can create a back-and-forth effect, where you build tension with the Whole Tone scale and then release it with something more conventional.

On Riffhard, we often show how to blend scales seamlessly, allowing you to create solos that are both interesting and musical. With the ability to slow down video lessons and practice with a custom metronome, you can really hone in on the details.

Riff Crafting with the Whole Tone Scale

Beyond solos, the Whole Tone scale can be a powerful tool for riff creation. Its symmetrical structure makes it easy to come up with patterns that are both intriguing and memorable. Whether you’re writing for a progressive metal piece or something more straightforward, this scale can give your riffs a unique edge.

Take a basic power chord progression and intersperse it with lines from the Whole Tone scale. This can add an unexpected twist, turning a mundane riff into something much more interesting. Try playing around with palm muting or fast alternate picking to add even more texture.

Riffhard’s library includes tons of lessons focused on riff creation. With instructors like Mike Stringer and Kevin Thrasher, you can learn how to craft riffs that capture attention and hold it, using scales like the Whole Tone as a foundation.

Integrating with Other Scales

One of the most exciting things about the Whole Tone scale is how it can be combined with other scales to create a rich tapestry of sounds. Because of its symmetry, it can act as a bridge between different tonalities, providing a smooth transition from one musical idea to another.

Try using the Whole Tone scale as a stepping stone between a G Major and a G Minor section in a song. This can create a seamless transition, adding depth and complexity to your composition. You might find that it opens up new pathways for your creativity, encouraging you to think outside the box.

Remember, music is about exploration. Don’t be afraid to mix and match scales to find what works best for your style. At Riffhard, our lessons are all about pushing boundaries and exploring new musical territories. With guidance from top-tier metal guitarists, you’ll have the tools you need to take your playing to the next level.

Advanced Techniques with the Whole Tone Scale

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, it’s time to take things up a notch. The Whole Tone scale lends itself well to advanced guitar techniques like sweep picking and tapping. Because of its symmetrical structure, it’s easier to incorporate these techniques without getting tangled in complex fingerings.

Try this exercise: Sweep pick through a Whole Tone arpeggio, starting on the low E string. Focus on clean, precise picking and smooth transitions between strings. Not only will this improve your technique, but it will also add an impressive flair to your playing.

e|---------------------7--10--|
B|---------------8--11--------|
G|-----------9--12------------|
D|------10--13----------------|
A|-11--14---------------------|
E|----------------------------|

And don’t forget about tapping. The Whole Tone scale’s wide intervals make it a prime candidate for tapping runs. Try incorporating taps into your playing to add speed and complexity without sacrificing musicality.

At Riffhard, you’ll find lessons dedicated to mastering these advanced techniques. With instructors like Aaron Marshall and Dan Sugarman, you’ll learn how to integrate them into your playing seamlessly.

The G Major Whole Tone Scale in Composition

Finally, let’s talk about using the Whole Tone scale in your compositions. Whether you’re crafting a full-length album or just a single track, this scale can add a fresh dimension to your music. Its unique sound can evoke a range of emotions, from eerie and unsettling to dreamy and ethereal.

Consider using the Whole Tone scale as a thematic element in your music. Perhaps it represents a character’s inner turmoil or serves as the backdrop for a pivotal scene in a concept album. By weaving this scale throughout your work, you can create a cohesive narrative that resonates with listeners.

And remember, the best music often comes from experimentation. Don’t be afraid to push the boundaries of what you think is possible with the Whole Tone scale. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, there’s always something new to discover.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, a deep dive into the G Major Whole Tone scale and its many applications in guitar playing. From adding tension to your solos to creating unique riffs, this scale can be a powerful tool in your musical arsenal. It might take some time to get comfortable with its unique sound, but the results are well worth the effort.

And if you’re looking to really hone your skills, Riffhard is here to help. With lessons from some of the best metal guitarists in the world, you can learn to use scales like these in ways you never thought possible. So grab your guitar, hit the practice room, and start exploring the captivating world of the G Major Whole Tone scale.