7. Chords Meet Scales

Things You Need:

Core Topics:

We are getting deep now, and are into the realm of topics that are powerful tools but not necessary to be a great guitar player. The idea of harmonizing scales hinges around being able to know how to build chords out of the notes of a particular scale and key, or how the notes of a scale “harmonize”, or produce the chords that would normally be deemed “correct” for that key. I say “normally”, because all of the rules of music are made to be broken and you shouldn’t be afraid to do just that.

Why is harmonization important? It helps provide a strong framework when you are playing or writing. For example, let’s say you are playing with others and someone pulls out a song that you don’t know that is in the key of G Major. If you understand how to harmonize the Major Scale you will know that there are a limited set of chords that could be involved, unless the song modulates to a different key. Similarly, if you are writing a song and stumped on a certain part you will have a palette of potential chords to choose from.

As with any complex topic in music, there are many ways to approach this. Some people memorize, some learn enough theory to be able to work it out on the fly. Go through some of the links provided here and search online for approaches that fit your mindset.

This is an advanced topic that the majority of guitarists I have met have never given much thought. It is a useful tool, but certainly not required to master the instrument.

  • Harmonize the Major:
    The following video features an approach that is light on theory:

    Another simple approach that you may relate to better:

  • Here is an approach that is heavy on theory. 
  • Harmonize the Minor:
    We are doing a very similar exercise here. Find the approach you like. Here’s one video: Chords of the Minor Scale

Deeper:

  • Diminished Chords: this chord is rarely used in pop music. It’s weird – a little dissonant to some ears. It makes a great “passing chord” (see Passing Tones from the Deeper section of the Major / Minor Scales section). Search these out if you haven’t bumped into them already. Theory Warning!! You can’t explain these chords without using some theory. Don’t be afraid, if you like the sound just learn the shape and ignore the theory if you have to:

 

  • CAGED System: this is a popular system that helps visualize the neck:

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More links for Harmonizing Scales: