The Diminished scale is also known as a symmetrical scale because the fingering patterns are repeating making it easy to memorize and play. This scale is very popular in jazz and heavy metal music.
C Diminished Scale:
C
D
Eb
F
Gb
Ab
A
B
Scale Formula:
1
2
b3
4
b5
b6
6
7
Other types of scales use selected notes
of a Diminished key and alter them as well. For example, the Blues scale
formula is 1 - b3 - 4 - b5 - 5 - b7.
For other types of scale formulas refer to the SCALE
FORMULAS page.
There are 3 types of scale fingering patterns shown below. The Caged system is the easiest pattern to learn and provides for a 2 octave range often in 1 hand position. All of the numbers in RED are the suggested fingerings.
Once you memorize this fingering pattern you can reuse it by moving up or down the fretboard. Whatever note you start on is the 1st note of the scale.
Caged System - Root starting on 6th string
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Fretboard Playback only:
Caged System - Root starting on 5th string
Video Player Option with Music Score and Fretboard Playback
Fretboard Playback only:
Horizontal System - Uses more of the fretboard to give you a 3 octave range.
Video Player Option with Music Score and Fretboard Playback
