FretApps

Got Modes?

2011-10-30T13:19:00.000-07:00

Are you confused by the concept of modes? Having difficulty really visualizing modes on the fretboard? Are the relationships between the mode fingering patterns unclear to you? I was having these kinds of issues before I developed the Fretography® method, which is the basis of the new iPhone app; Modes 101. Using Modes 101, you'll really get modes!

If you want to be a great lead player, or hone your improvisational skills, knowing your modes is essential. The basic modes are simply scales based on any of the seven notes of a key. For instance, in the key of C; the first mode is: CDEFGABC, the second mode is: DEFGABCD, third mode: EFGABCDE, etc. Each mode has a unique fingering pattern on the fretboard.

Most guitar methods describe these modes as patterns which span all six strings, as shown in this diagram;

Typical mode diagrams. Lots of Dots!

While such diagrams are accurate, they are not easy to visualize and remember. Also, they fail to show how modes can be played in single-octave forms.

The notes on which each of these 6-string mode patterns is based appears only on the 6th, 4th and 1st strings (shown in red). But what if you want play the Mixolydian mode starting on the 5th string? or the 3rd string? What if you want to easily transition from one mode to another?

Single octave patterns are the most effective way to really get how modes work on the fretboard and understand each modes musical character. So Modes 101 presents you with a single octave pattern for every mode in every key rooted on every string.

Not only that, but the modes are shown in symmetrical pairs which really clarify how modes are related to one another. The diagrams above give you no clue that there is symmetry in modal relationships. Compare the typical Ionian (CDEFGABC) and Phrygian (EFGABCDE) mode patterns above with the single-octave patterns for the same modes below, as you'll see them in the app;

Phrygian Mode overlapping the Ionian Mode

Ionian Mode overlapping Phrygian Mode

Notice that the modes are shown as color coded geometric blocks, not just bunches of dots. These shapes really help visualize and remember the mode patterns because you will be seeing not just notes, but a clearly defined area of the fretboard. When you tap the mode shape it will play at a moderate speed so you can play along.

There are four single-octave patterns for each mode, depending on which 3-string group it is based on. When you have learned them, you'll be able to play each mode in any position on the fretboard in every key. By combining these patterns you will ultimately cover all the notes on all six strings.

The app focuses on these single-octave, three-string patterns because they are the easiest, fastest and most useful patterns, especially if you are just getting to know what modes are and how they work musically.

In private lessons, my beginning and advanced students have benefitted from this method of learning modes. Now, FretApps: Modes 101 brings this logical mode method to the iPhone.

FretApps™ NOW AVAILABLE !

2011-10-09T14:42:00.000-07:00

FretApps: Modes 101 has just been added to the App Store!

Here's a brief introduction to the app;

When you open the app you are brought to the wheel. You can select the mode-pair (Module) you wish to study, as well as the key and the Form. The Form denotes the specific string group for the modes, and the precise fingering pattern.

The image above shows the Ionian/Phrygian Module in the Key of C, Form 1 (rooted in the 3rd and 4th strings). Notice that the two modes form a symmetrical pattern when paired together, and that they overlap.

Here the view of the fretboard has been zoomed in by pinch-zooming. Also, the key has been changed to Eb and the note names have been replaced with Roman Numeral scale degrees.

Tapping either of the mode shapes will cause the mode scale to play, starting from the lowest pitch. The modes will play as ascending and descending scales at a moderate tempo so you can play along on your guitar.

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FretApps™: Modes 101 is the most fun and practical way to learn to play and understand modes on the guitar.

Modes are an important element of music theory for the guitar. No matter what style of music you play, a complete understanding of scales, melody, harmony and chord structure is not possible without understanding modes. FretApps Modes 101 is a guitarist's guide to the seven fundamental modes.

Each mode is shown as a color coded form. You can see and hear where the notes can be played on the guitar fretboard in all twelve diatonic keys. The modes are played at a moderate tempo, and you can play along to practice your fingering.

The modes are grouped in symmetrical pairs - called "modules" - which show specific modal relationships and enable you to learn two modes at a time. Fingering is provided for each mode, along with an explanation of its interval structure and standard musical notation.

Because the modes are shown as single octave patterns which are grouped symmetrically, not only do you learn how each mode is structured and played, but also the overall symmetries of the guitar fretboard. This principle of symmetry is the basis of the Fretography® method on which Modes 101 is based. By visualizing the notes on the guitar fretboard symmetrically, otherwise baffling concepts of music theory are simplified.

Features include;

* Every mode in every key, with note names and scale degrees
* Fingering for each mode scale, in both moveable and open-string positions
* Full 24-fret "pinch-to-zoom" guitar fretboard
* Superb graphics in portrait and landscape views
* Displays note names and scale degrees on the whole fretboard
* All the 27 most practical 3-string/single-octave mode forms
* Built-in browser access to FretApps blog featuring the pioneering Fretography Guitar Method

About FretApps;

FretApps™ are based on the Fretography® guitar method created by guitarist and teacher Mark Newstetter.

For guitar theory exercises and tutorials, visit www.fretography.blogspot.com

For technical info and support, visit www.fretapps.blogspot.com

FretApps is powered by CosmiCube www.cosmicube.com

FretApps™ Coming Soon

2010-08-12T16:49:00.000-07:00

Keep watching this blog for news about FretApps™

FretApps are iPhone and iPad apps based on the unique guitar method, Fretography.

The first FretApp is currently in development. Fretography® Modes 101 will provide an interactive overview of the Fretography® method.

We'll provide ongoing information as development progresses as to the projected release date of Fretography® Modes 101.

Meanwhile - check out the Fretography Blog, featuring exercises and diagrams to help you develop your fretboard navigation skills.