Sequences
One of the best ways to become familiar with a new scale or mode is through the use of sequences. A sequence is a repetitive pattern in which the rhythm remains the same, while the pitches are repeated higher or lower, usually within a specific scale or mode. Practicing sequences will help you become more familiar with the scale or mode you are learning, as well as enabling you to create melodies more easily instead of just running up and down the scale. Here are some sequences within the C major scale.
This sequence uses intervals of a 3rd. Using all of the intervals up to an octave is an excellent way of becoming familiar with the musical possibilities of a scale. Intervals are dealt with in Section 5.
This sequence covers all the notes in the modes you have learnt. It is a good idea to practice any sequence across an entire fingering pattern.
Another important thing to keep in mind when practicing scales and modes is to use a variety of rhythms. Here is a sequence which applies a triplet pattern to the A Aeolian mode.
This sequence also uses notes in groups of three, but contains an eighth note and two sixteenth notes instead of the triplet.
One of the most common ways sequences are used in music is as a riff. A riff is a sequence which fits a specific chord or progression. A riff can be a set rhythm (exact repetition) or it can be altered to fit various chords. Here is a one bar riff applied to a chord progression derived from the A Aeolian mode. For more on riffs and set rhythms, see Progressive Blues Lead Guitar Technique.
