The E Natural Minor Scale

The Formula of the Scale

The E Natural Minor scale consists of seven notes: E (Root), F# (2nd), G (minor 3rd), A (4th), B (5th), C (minor 6th), and D (minor 7th). When playing this scale on the E, A, and D strings between the open and third frets, we use these notes in the following positions:

• E (Root): Open E string
• F# (2nd): 2nd fret on the E string
• G (minor 3rd): 3rd fret on the E string
• A (4th): Open A string
• B (5th): 2nd fret on the A string
• C (minor 6th): 3rd fret on the A string
• D (minor 7th): Open D string
• E (Root): 2nd fret on the D string

By following this pattern, you can play the E Natural Minor scale within the specified fret range.

How to Play the Scale

To play the E Natural Minor scale on the E, A, and D strings between the open and third frets, follow these steps:

1. Starting on the E String:
   • Play the open E string. This note is E (Root).
   • Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the E string. This note is F# (2nd).
   • Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the E string. This note is G (minor 3rd).
2. Moving to the A String:
   • Play the open A string. This note is A (4th).
   • Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the A string. This note is B (5th).
   • Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the A string. This note is C (minor 6th).
3. Moving to the D String:
   • Play the open D string. This note is D (minor 7th).
   • Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the D string. This note is E (Root), completing one octave.

Repeat the pattern up and down the scale to practice smooth transitions and accuracy. Ensure each note rings out clearly before moving to the next.

Scale Visualisation

Here is the tablature for the E Natural Minor scale on the E, A, and D strings between the open and third frets:

   E |---0---2---3---
   A |---0---2---3---
   D |---0---2-------

In this tablature:

• The open E string is E (Root).
• The 2nd fret on the E string is F# (2nd).
• The 3rd fret on the E string is G (minor 3rd).
• The open A string is A (4th).
• The 2nd fret on the A string is B (5th).
• The 3rd fret on the A string is C (minor 6th).
• The open D string is D (minor 7th).
• The 2nd fret on the D string is E (Root).

Practice this scale regularly to familiarise yourself with the positions and intervals.