Nailing the Seventeenth Position: A Comprehensive Guide
Hey there, music enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the world of music theory to talk about that often overlooked, yet incredibly versatile position on the fretboard - the seventeenth position. If you're a guitarist looking to expand your horizons and add some serious spice to your playing, you've come to the right place. So, grab your axe, get comfy, and let's embark on this musical journey together! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and seventeen position.
What's So Special About the Seventeenth Position?
Before we dive in, let's quickly address the elephant in the room. Why the seventeenth position, you ask? Well, unlike the more popular first, fifth, or twelfth positions, the seventeenth position doesn't get as much love. But that's precisely why it's so special! It's a hidden gem, a secret weapon in your musical arsenal that can add a unique twist to your solos and riffs.
The seventeenth position is essentially a mode of the major scale, specifically the Mixolydian mode. It's like a different shade of the same color, offering a fresh perspective on familiar scales. But more on that later. For now, let's get our fingers ready and explore this position in detail.
Finding the Seventeenth Position
Alright, let's get our bearings on the fretboard. The seventeenth position is, as the name suggests, the seventeenth fret up from the open position. To find it, simply place your index finger on the seventeenth fret and start exploring. Here's a simple way to remember it: if you're playing in the key of A, the seventeenth position will start at the A string, seventeenth fret.
Pro Tip: To make your life easier, try using a capo on the seventeenth fret. This way, you can play in any key and always be in the seventeenth position. It's a nifty little trick that'll save you some finger strain!
Understanding the Seventeenth Position Scale
Now that we've found our position, let's take a closer look at the scale we're dealing with. As mentioned earlier, the seventeenth position is based on the Mixolydian mode. This mode is essentially a major scale with a flattened seventh degree. In other words, it's a major scale with a bit of a bluesy twist.
Here's how it looks in the key of A (using the seventeenth position with a capo):
- A (Root) - B (Major 2nd) - C# (Major 3rd) - D (Perfect 4th) - E (Perfect 5th) - F (Major 6th) - G (Major 7th) - G# (Flattened 7th)
See that G#? That's what gives the Mixolydian mode its unique sound. It's the same note as an A, but a semitone higher, creating that distinctive bluesy vibe.
Practicing the Seventeenth Position
So, you've found the seventeenth position, you understand the scale, now what? It's time to practice, of course! Here are a few tips to help you get started:
1. Start Slow: Begin by playing the scale slowly, focusing on your finger placement and accuracy. As you get more comfortable, gradually increase your speed.
2. Use a Metronome: A metronome is your best friend when it comes to practicing scales. It helps you build speed and accuracy, and it keeps you in time.
3. Play in Different Keys: Don't limit yourself to just one key. Practice in as many keys as you can. This will not only help you understand the position better but also make you a more versatile player.
4. Listen to Music: The best way to understand a scale is to hear it in action. Listen to songs that use the Mixolydian mode and try to pick out the seventeenth position scale. Some great examples include "Sunshine of Your Love" by Cream and "Voodoo Child (Slight Return)" by Jimi Hendrix.
The Seventeenth Position in Action
Now that you've got the basics down, let's see how you can use the seventeenth position in your playing. Here are a couple of ways to incorporate it into your solos and riffs.
Solos
When soloing, try using the seventeenth position to add some spice to your licks. The unique sound of the Mixolydian mode can really make your solos stand out. Here's a simple lick to get you started:
- Play a B note on the seventeenth fret of the high E string. - Move down the E string, playing A, G#, G, F, E, D, C#. - Bend the B note on the fifteenth fret up to the seventeenth fret. - Repeat the sequence.
Riffs
The seventeenth position is also great for creating unique riffs. The combination of open strings and fretted notes can create some really interesting sounds. Here's a simple riff to try:
- Play an A note on the open A string. - Move to the seventeenth position and play B, C#, D, E, F, G#, G#. - Move back down the A string, playing G#, F, E, D, C#, B, A. - Repeat the sequence.
Conclusion
And there you have it, folks! We've explored the seventeenth position, understood the Mixolydian mode, and even played a couple of licks and riffs. Remember, the key to mastering any position on the fretboard is practice, patience, and persistence.
So, grab your guitar, find that seventeenth position, and start jamming. Who knows? You might just discover your new favorite spot on the fretboard. Happy playing!
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