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Secret to Mixing Major & Minor Pentatonics

Mar 29, 2025

Hey Lifelong Guitarists,

Welcome back to the newsletter! I'm your host, Andre Fludd, and today we're diving into a concept that's revolutionized my own playing, and I'm excited to share it with you.

KeyStone Licks

 

 

Introducing: Keystone Licks

Think of ancient architectural marvels like the Coliseum or arched bridges. They rely on a crucial element: the keystone. This central stone, placed at the apex of an arch, locks the entire structure together, providing incredible stability.

I believe guitar playing works similarly. There are certain "keystone licks" that, when mastered, unlock a wealth of musical possibilities. They're not just isolated licks; they're the foundation upon which you build your entire playing.

Keystone Licks to Blend Major & Minor Pentatonics

Instead of just focusing on the major pentatonic scale, we're going to explore how blending major and minor pentatonic scales can create powerful and versatile licks. This approach creates a richer, more nuanced sound, perfect for blues and beyond.

Why Blend Pentatonics?

  • Emotional Depth: Combining the bright, optimistic sound of the major pentatonic with the darker, more emotive minor pentatonic creates a dynamic range of expression.
  • Versatility: This blend works seamlessly across various musical styles, from blues and rock to jazz and beyond.
  • Creative Exploration: It opens up a world of new melodic possibilities, allowing you to craft unique and captivating licks.

The Keystone Approach

We'll be focusing on specific "keystone licks" that utilize this blend over a one chord in a blues progression. Mastering these licks will not only expand your vocabulary but also unlock new ways to approach improvisation and composition.

What You'll Learn:

  • How to seamlessly integrate major and minor pentatonic scales.
  • Specific "keystone licks" that leverage this blend.
  • Techniques to apply these licks in your own playing.
  • How to create your own licks based on this concept.

 

Ready to Take Your Guitar Playing to the Next Level?

If you're enjoying this teaching style and the concepts I'm sharing, I invite you to explore my Lifelong Guitarist program. It's where I delve deeper into these ideas and provide comprehensive guidance to help you reach your full potential.

Let's unlock your guitar playing together!

Stay tuned, and keep practicing!

Andre Fludd

Lifelong Guitarist

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