In the third of four sessions on single-string technique, you’ll expand your understanding of the fingerboard by exploring the scales and fingering positions found at each step of the major scale.  Sometimes referred to as the “diatonic” scale (from the Greek, literally meaning “progressing through tones”), you’ll discover how the fingering that you’ve been working on in previous sessions for major keys can also be used to play minor scales and modes. You’ll also learn single-string versions of “Blackberry Blossom,” “Lonesome Fiddle Blues,” and “Winston’s Jig,” one of Bill’s own tunes in 6/8 time.

Using these tunes and arrangements as examples, Bill discusses how the same scale can be used over a diatonic chord progression. He also discusses ideas about melodic improvisation and tackles some of the right-hand challenges of playing in 6/8 time.

Check out these links featuring the three tunes covered in this session:

“Blackberry Blossom” A live version featuring Noam Pikelny, masterfully blending melodic and single-string styles in improvisation.

“Lonesome Fiddle Blues” The classic version of this tune is from the Will the Circle Be Unbroken album featuring Vassar Clements on fiddle, Randy Scruggs on guitar and John McEuen on banjo. Bill based his arrangement of this tune’s A section largely around Randy’s guitar solo. 

“Winston’s Jig” This tune is from the Prime Time album that Bill recorded with guitar legend Dan Crary and bassist Wally Barnick. It’s part of a medley that begins with Dan’s solo performance of “Rattlin’ Roarin’ Willie” that Dan learned from Scottish musician Dick Gaughan.