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Modal playing in the diatonic scale means that the same notes are
played, but the tonal center is shifted. To achieve this one can use the
following rules of thumb:
1. start on the tonal center of the mode
2. end on the tonal center of the mode
3. repeat the tonal center more often than other notes
Every mode evokes a certain feeling. Experiment with the modes and
decide for yourself which ones you like.
If you look at the above mode intervals you will find that only the
Ionian and Lydian scales possess a leading tone. Both of these scales
are major scales characterized by the invervall of a major third above
the tonic. This interval causes a more or less "happy" feeling.
This leaves us with only two remaining scales that could benefit from
the functional hierarchy of a leading tone: Dorian and Aeolian. They
are both minor scales characterized by the invervall of a minor third
above the tonic and evoke feelings that are more reminiscent of sadness
or reflection.
It has got a very characteristic sound with a certain arabic touch that is
due to the huge interval between the minor sixth and the major seventh.
Since the major seventh function of leading to the tonic is only needed
while the melody is ascending, most composers used the natural minor
scale when descending, although there is many exceptions to the rule.
The harmonic minor scale was used a lot in the works of composers
from Bach to Mozart but has also seen heavy use in bands like The
Doors and recently in the so called "neoclassical" guitar shredding
scence. So if you want to spice up your diatonic scale with the sound of
a harmonic minor scale you have got to study the scale on the
fretboard:
But believe me, it is not trivial! This one note change generates almost
a new parallel universe...
First thing - as always - is to play the scale on only one string using the
above fretboard diagram. Thus you will get used to the characteristic
intervals on your instrument - the guitar - and will also train your brain
to recognize the sound of this particular scale (what is normally called
ear-training).
Due to the huge leap from F to G# these scale patterns are not as user-
friendly as the diatonic patterns, but after a while you will get used to it.
Using these patterns you will be able to switch between diatonic and
harmonic patterns on the fly - no matter where you are on the fretboard.