Scales in drop tuning

[cnl83]

Ok, so I know that I can play Major scales anywhere in standard tuning, but how can apply the Major Scale to drop tuning? I know it moves down the fret board a whole step, but does anyone have any advice on that? Do you just adjust where you start the root note?

CGCF

 

[mambo4]

If your "drop tuning" involves tuning all 4 strings down the same, then yes, the same scale shapes apply. Just the starting fret changes.

There are drop tunings that do not involve all strings equally, however. If you are only tuning down 1 string, for example, then the shape of every scale involving that string will change.

 

[cnl83]

That I figured. I didnt know if there was some nifty technique to get by. We play B tuning, C#, Dropped D, Dropped C.

 

[jansenh]

CGCF

Try tuning C, F, A#, D# Then you have fourths and all scale as usual. Superior to CGCF...

Cheers, Henning - Norway

 

[Rudreax]

Ah, this is where knowing the notes in a scale will help you much more than knowing scale positions.

As for how to actually play them, just relearn them in the alternate tuning. But make sure you know the notes as you play them. I think you already know this, along with the notes, but I figured I should post this anyway.

 

[EADG mx]

This is my issue with learning scales via patterns and fretboard maps.

The tuning of your instrument doesn't affect the intervallic structure of the scale. If you are tuned down, adjust upward, and vice versa. Thinking in terms of notes.

 

[DudeistMonk]

Alternatively you could buy a fiver and just be done with it

 

[knigel]

Alternatively you could buy a fiver and just be done with it

Yep.

 

[Thegian]

Guessing the open C is the pedal note. No way would you just keep a standard tuned five stringer for that.