Most people might not realize it, but scales have their own built in
chord systems. By using the notes from a scale we can make up 7 different
chords. We can then use the 7 chords as a blueprint for creating chord
progressions. The scale that the chords were built from can be used to
create a melody or used to solo over the progression with. We call theses
scale/chord systems. The Chord Progression section of the Guitar
Alliance Member's Site will show you each scale's chord system, how
these chord systems are built, and most importantly how they are used.
If you are interested in writing your own songs, these scale/chord systems
are by far one of the most important songwriting tools you'll
ever come across. Each chord construted from a scale plays a different
role and knowing how they interact with each other will make you a better
songwriter. All you have to do is pick the key signature you want your
song to be in then you find the correct scale/chord system chart for that
key and then you can know exactly what chords and scales will work for
your song.
Creating Chord Progressions In The Key Of A Major
To figure out the chord system from a scale you must create triads off
of the scale steps. Triads are three notes that spell a chord. There are
three triad types that are extracted from scales: major, minor, and diminished
(we show you how to do this in the Member's Site).
Note: The 1st, 4th and 5th chords that are built from a scale are the
most used chords in popular music. The standard blues progression is made
up of these three chords and most early rock songs (rock was spawned from
the blues) used these same 3 chords. Not much has really changed as a
majority of popular music are still 3 chord songs using mostly the minor
2nd, 3rd, and 6th minimally-usually in bridges or interludes. Keep that
in mind when creating your own progressions!
A Major Scale In 1st Position
Triads Built From The A Major Scale
Triad Names
1.) A Major
2.) B minor
3.) C#/Db minor
4.) D Major
5.) E Major
6.) F#/Gb minor
7.) G#/Ab dim.
Example
Here is a sample progression built from the A major scale/chord system
on this page. You'll notice in this example that chord
phrasing is used instead of simply strumming through the chords.You
can just strum along if you don't know chord phrasing.
A - D - F#/Gbm - E - A
Get instant access to dozens of scale/chord charts and learn how to
create your own chord progressions in the Guitar Alliance Member's Site.
Click here to find out more!
