How to Play in ANY Key

Summary

The video explains how to visualize and play guitar in any key by outlining a pattern of notes across two strings. It starts with the key of G, showing the pattern of notes that comprises the G major scale. It then shows how to harmonize those notes into chords and demonstrates moving the same pattern to other keys like Bb and F. It explains how this helps diagnose and play in any key, emphasizing the importance of visualizing just 6 core notes in a key. It also shows how to use pentatonic scales and arpeggios over chord progressions, allowing you to start playing in any key.

Takeaways

• 😀 The trick to playing in any key is learning the notes in a pattern you can replicate (root, whole step, whole step, down a string, repeat)
• 👍 Use two adjacent strings and memorize the interval pattern (3-5-7) to visualize notes in a key
• 🎸 Add 3rds to root notes to outline major and minor chords in a key signature
• 🎛️ Use power chords on root notes to establish chord qualities
• 🎼 Construct arpeggios on chord tones to target chord changes
• 🔈 The minor pentatonic works over major key chords, especially 1-4-5 progressions
• 💡 Start simple with 6 essential scale tones then add extensions like 3rds, 5ths and arpeggios
• 🎸 The Super Pro Delta King amp has great tone for practice and home use
• 👂 This week's listening homework is checking out music by The Smile (Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood's band)
• 😊 The teacher is happy to answer any questions in the comments

Q & A

What is the main purpose of this video?

To teach how to play and visualize music in any key on the guitar by learning a common pattern that can be moved to different root notes.

What is the basic pattern for finding notes in a key?

A root note, then up a whole step, up a whole step again, down a string, then up a whole step and a half step. This gives you 6 of the 7 notes in a key.

How can you turn the scale degrees into chords?

By adding either major or minor thirds onto the root notes. Major thirds for the I, IV and V chords. Minor thirds for the ii, iii, vi and vii chords.

What is an easy way to play in minor keys?

Go to the relative minor pentatonic scale, which is usually 3 frets below the major key root.

What guitar amp is featured in the video?

The Super Pro Delta King 10 amplifier, a Sweetwater exclusive.

What does the instructor recommend as a next step after learning the basics?

Start incorporating arpeggios, the minor pentatonic scale, and exploring modal sounds like Mixolydian.

What radiohead side project does the instructor recommend listening to?

The Smile, featuring Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood and other Radiohead members.

Does the instructor think he comes across as an insecure used car salesman?

No, he questions why a commenter would say that and points out he is just playing guitar in the video.

What is the affiliate link for?

Sweetwater - to help support the instructor if viewers purchase gear through that link.

What learning step does the instructor recommend after getting comfortable with the basics?

Start adding additional notes, arpeggios and scales like Mixolydian to expand your knowledge and playing ability.