Welcome to day #1 of Tom’s Big Blues Solo Challenge!

During the first week of the challenge we’ll be working on each of the 5 patterns of the pentatonic scale. 

While I’ll be the first to admit that working on scales isn’t the most exciting way to spend your time, it is an essential part of our soloing system, as you’ll see in the coming weeks.

So today, we’ll be looking at pattern one. Most people who’ve ever played around with lead guitar have encountered this shape before, but in case you havent, we’ve catered to all ability levels. 

Below you’ll find 3 videos, labelled Level 1, Level 2 & Level 3. Here’s how it works…

LEVEL 1: If you’re brand new to the pentatonic scale, then choose  this level. It’ll give you a great intro to the world’s most widely used scale shape.

LEVEL 2: If you’re already reasonably familiar with pentatonic shape 1, then level 2 will take you through an exercise that will help you get to know it even better.

LEVEL 3: If you’re super confident with pentatonic shape 1, then this video will take you through a challenging ‘String Skipping’ exercise that will help push your pentatonic skills to the next level. 

YOUR TASK FOR TODAY:

Watch the video that matches your experience level below, then spend 10 minutes repeating the exercise over and over. 

Repetition is the key when it comes to mastering your scales, so be sure to shut off any distractions, and get to work for 10 minutes of focused practice. After your 10 minutes are up, you’re done for the day!

Of course, feel free to try another 10 minute session or two throughout the day if you feel you need it. 

That’s all for today. See you tomorrow for day 2 of the challenge.