Practice Guidelines for the E Minor Pentatonic Scale

Practice Video

Remember to practice using a metronome. At any time, you may visit Metronome Online.

Practice slowly at first, keeping a steady beat.

A metronome setting of 40 bpm might be a good starting point.

Consider it a goal (not a requirement) to accurately achieve the tempo in this practice video (192 bpm).
(Text Version)

Improve

Consider the following questions. Select each question for helpful playing tips and practice exercises.

Does each note have a clear sound?

If the sound is unclear, be sure your left-hand fingertips are next to the frets. Add a little more left-hand pressure if necessary. If the sound is still unclear, consider using lighter gauge strings (which are easier to press down) on your guitar.

Are the tempo and rhythm even and consistent?

Practice using your left hand alone (without playing the strings with your right hand). Practice until you can place your left-hand fingers in rhythm. Practice with and without the metronome. Focus on your left-hand fingers and form.

Is the song complete?

Focus on problem areas when practicing, but also spend time practicing as if you were performing. Set a goal in each of your practice sessions to play the E minor pentatonic scale a set number of times (perhaps three) without stopping to correct mistakes.

Are you experiencing physical discomfort or pain while practicing?

Depending on the type of guitar or strings you are using, some discomfort in the left-hand fingertips can be normal (particularly for beginning guitar players). If you experience pain or discomfort in any other area (such as your wrists, arms, shoulders, back, or legs), you should stop practicing.

Check to be sure that you are sitting up straight, holding the guitar correctly, and using correct form.

Contact your instructor if you are unable to correct the problem.

Build Your Skills

Left-Hand Pressure: Practice the scale without using left-hand pressure; each of your fingertips will just barely touch the string. As you add left-hand pressure, keep your left arm relaxed from the shoulder to the fingertip. (Text Version)

Right-Hand and Left-Hand Synchronization: Your goal should be to synchronize your left and right hands so that they are playing at the exact same time. Strive to make it appear as though your left hand is causing the sound. (Text Version)

Right-Hand Skill Development: Practice the scale using the following drill. Start slow (40 bpm), and increase the tempo gradually. First, play the drill using a pick. Then, play the drill by using rest strokes, alternating with your i and m fingers. (Text Version)

Practice Daily

Set aside time to practice. Begin by allocating 30 minutes per day for focused practice. Try to maintain a regular practice schedule.

Complete an entry in your practice journal each time you practice. (Practice Journal template)

Reserve some of your practice time to review and practice other music you have learned.