Mastering Open Position Pentatonics, Crosspicking, and Chromatics on Guitar

Elevate Your Guitar Skills Beyond the Basics

Guitar playing isn't just about mastering the basics; it's about continuously exploring and integrating new techniques into your repertoire. In this guide, we'll delve into open position pentatonics, crosspicking, and chromatics, three essential elements that can significantly enhance your guitar playing, whether you're jamming alone or with friends. Let's break down each technique with insights from Eric Hogan, a seasoned guitarist and music educator.

Open Position Pentatonics

The open position pentatonic scale is a foundational element of guitar playing, often associated with beginners. However, its applications extend far beyond. For instance, when playing a C chord, the C major pentatonic scale lies right beneath your fingertips, serving as a basis for iconic songs like "My Girl" by The Temptations. Understanding and practicing these scales in open position not only provides a solid foundation but also opens up avenues for creative expression.

Exercise Tips:

• Combine new chords or scales with strumming patterns, such as quarter notes, to enhance your musicality.
• Explore major pentatonics for various chords in open position (C, D, E, G, A) to familiarize yourself with the fretboard.

Crosspicking Technique

Crosspicking involves using a pick to play arpeggios or patterns across strings, often incorporating droning or open strings to create a fuller sound. This technique allows for a more dynamic range in your playing, especially when applied to different chords in the open position.

Practice Strategy:

• Use a consistent chord, such as C, as a drone tone while practicing crosspicking patterns.
• Alternate picking is recommended for a smoother transition between strings.
• Apply the technique across various chords to improve versatility and dexterity.

Chromatics in Guitar Playing

Chromatic notes add color and depth to your playing, especially when incorporated into major pentatonic scales. By adding the flat third to a major pentatonic scale, you introduce a slight 'dirt' or dissonance that can make your runs and fills more interesting.

Adding Chromatics:

• For major chords, consider adding the flat third to the major pentatonic scale for a bluesier feel.
• When dealing with minor chords, the addition of the flat five (also known as the 'blue note') to the minor pentatonic scale offers a similar effect.

Practical Application and Exercises

To put these concepts into practice, consider working on songs that allow for the incorporation of these techniques. For example, "Sweet Virginia" by The Rolling Stones offers an excellent opportunity to apply open position pentatonics, crosspicking, and chromatic runs.

Key Points to Remember:

• Slow and precise practice is crucial for mastering these techniques.
• Explore different chord progressions and song structures to apply these concepts.
• Experiment with adding chromatic notes to both major and minor pentatonic scales for unique sonic textures.

By integrating open position pentatonics, crosspicking, and chromatics into your playing, you'll not only improve your technical skills but also enhance your musical expression. Remember, the ultimate goal is to be versatile and expressive with your instrument, creating music that resonates with you and your audience.

For further information, including tabs, backing tracks, and lessons, visit Eric Hogan's website and check out his resources for deepening your guitar knowledge. Happy playing!

Original video tutorial by Eric Hogan