To write a riff on the guitar, are you meant to base it on scales, or do u just do what you want??

Well scales/modes are your guidelines per say. They are like a map for you to follow so you at least play the right notes. This is of course your playing the right scale over the right chord progressions etc....

I recommend starting with the 5 Pentatonic Boxs.

The Minor Pentatonic scale has five notes and each note gets a box.


These scales are used alot and will give you a clear goal to achieve.

Check out this file on the minor pentatonic scale

http://www.theguitarfiles.com/guitarfile186.html

includes a 24 fret diagram of this scale.

This really falls under the song writing section....
theres plenty of info there to help out.....

Personally, I think knowing theory can be a hang up depending on what kind of music you are writing. Personally, I know no theory beyond what I have extrapolated from listening to the few people I know that know any theory. My drummer and other guitar player know all the theory stuff and they are often dumbfounded by the way I mess with things by just messing with them. They have taken to calling them "Timbits" (you will get this if you are Canadian, my real name is Tim). That siad I wish I knew more theory so I could understand them when they get going.

In short, don't worry about scales and such when doing primary writing, they will get in the way if you are onto something progressive. But that knowledge comes in really handy when trying to communicate ideas to other people. Basically, it is good to know as long as youknow how and when to forget it as well. I hope this made some sort of sense.

I know some theory...and then forgot most of it...I play with emotion...I dont think when I play now...I just let it ride and whatever happens happens.

[Edited on 11/6/2004 by Spidercents]

If you are writing a riff to just write riff, don't worry about the scales, but if you are writing one with a band. The scales and such do play a greater importances. For example, you don't wanna go do amazingly riff on an E minor scale and then have the progression on a Bb minor. It sounds odd and weird. However, if you end of playing something not using a scale and it sounds great with everything else. Do not change it to fit the scale. Just keep it.

[Edited on 1/3/2005 by Lava_Monster]

Hi Hanna,

There is an art to composing music, but it is not always necessary. Sometimes, the 'riff' itself puts the song together for you. A knowledge of theory, etc. can give you other options and variations of your ideas. But remember that they are YOUR IDEAS.

For the most part, listen to what you hear when you play. Your ears will tell you the truth. Have a great time playing and writing.

--Reggie