Do You Actually Use Scales When Improvising?
What was the question?
Joel noticed that the teaching method separates improvisation concepts (like lines) from technical scale practice. He asked: "Do you use the scales when you're improvising, or is it completely different?"
(Timestamp: 03:55)
The core idea (in plain English)
Scales are used, but often for targeting specific colors, not just running up and down. If a chord lasts for two measures (like a C minor 7), I might use a scalar motion to target a specific note, such as the E flat, to make that "minor" sound stand out.
However, for genuine jazz phrasing akin to Wes Montgomery🔗 or Django Reinhardt, the mindset is usually on "lines" (West lines or Django lines) rather than raw scales. The obsession with knowing every mode perfectly before playing music is a myth that blocks many guitar lovers.
(Timestamp: 04:14)
Fretboard breakdown (what to play)
Targeting: If you are on C minor 7, play a line that emphasizes the E flat (the minor third). You can use scalar steps (E natural to E flat) to highlight that resolution.
The Blues Exception: The blues scale in the diagonal shape is one instance where scalar thinking is heavily used because it sits naturally on the guitar.
The "Line" Concept: Instead of thinking "C Dorian Scale," think of the specific arpeggio-based line (Django line) or upper structure that connects the chords smoothly.
(Timestamp: 06:12)
Common mistake to avoid
Don't believe the internet myth that you must memorize every note on the fretboard and every mode instantaneously to play jazz. Even legends like George Benson came from a different school of thought—hearing the lines and upper structures, not calculating modes like a computer.
(Timestamp: 07:32)
A 10-minute practice assignment
Pick a static chord, like G Major 7. Instead of running the G Major scale up and down, try to create a melody that specifically targets the 3rd (B) or the 7th (F#) using scalar motion only to approach that target note. Treat the scale as a vehicle to get to the good notes, not the destination itself.
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