How Do You Play Messiaens Mode 1 Whole Tone Scale On The Guitar?
Messiaen’s mode 1 whole tone scale is built by playing a succession of whole steps. This creates a very nebulous and wandering sound. The works of Debussy and many impressionist composers employed this scale. Begin by placing your first (forefinger) finger on the fifth fret of the sixth string. This is the root of the scale. Next, stretch your second (middle) finger to play the seventh fret of the sixth string. This is B. B is the second degree of Messiaen’s mode 1 whole tone scale. With your fourth (pinky) finger, play the ninth fret of the sixth string. This is C sharp, the third degree of the scale. Shift your first finger to play the sixth fret of the fifth string. This is D sharp, the fourth degree of Messiaen’s mode 1 whole tone scale. Use your third (ring) finger to play the eighth fret of the fifth string. This is F. F is the fifth degree of Messiaen’s mode 1 whole tone scale. Stretch your fourth finger to reach the tenth fret of the fifth string. This is G. G is the sixth degr
