Single String Shred Fest
by Joe Stump
This is a very cool handout that`s part of my Neo-Classical Guitar 2 DVD, it involves a combination of 4 note scale patterns all navigated on 1 string. Most diatonic scale patterns can be played either across the strings(meaning up and down a six string scale fingering) , up and down the neck on a single or set of strings, or a combination of the 2. One advantage of the single string bit is that while it takes a certain amount of control and finesse working on a single string, there`s no (or very little) string crossing involved so it may be easier to alternate pick. A very violinesque approach to working these patterns.
The best way to approach this piece is to practice it in 4 bar sections, bars 1-4 involves the 1st 4 note pattern (a 4 note scale pattern with the 1st note played 2x) I start on the tonic A (entire piece is in a combination of A natural minor and A harmonic minor)- descend down the scale, then measure 2 start a diatonic ( diatonic meaning within the scale) 3rd away the same for measure 3 and then resolving it in measure 4. Each 4 bar example represents a variation of scale pattern as well as a cool way to use it motif-wise.
Bars 5-8 see the pattern jumping in 3rds , with a classical pedal tone added in beats 3 and 4 of bar 6, then down the scale with the pattern with a small 3 string e major arpeggio coming at the end of bar 8.
Bars-9-12 This a very cool Baroque motif where I`m playing the pattern in harmonic minor and move about the scale always returning to the set of tones containing the leading tone (leading tone meaning 7th degree of the harmonic minor scale) Once again a very practical 4 bar practice bit.
Bars 13-16 Now the pattern changes to a straight diatonic 4 note climb the when I hit the root of the scale in bar 15 I do an about face and descend in straight diatonic 4`s , sliding up to the octave to finish it.
I use these patterns in at varying speeds , over fast speed metal grooves playing them anywhere between 176- past 210 and at slower paced things as well. Technique is much more about control as opposed velocity, so practice this entire piece as well as sections of it at varying tempos. They`re cool patterns to use a melodic tool as well as adding them to you solo playing vocabulary.
Best of luck, Joe Stump
