Learn to read sheet music in different positions on guitar and go beyond the basics. Let’s look at mastering the second position on the guitar, looking at keys and scales that work best in this position.
2nd Position PDF Files for Practice
Here is the PDF download of Important Scales in 2nd Position: Scales Download.
Sheet Music Practice Sheets for 2nd Position to follow. Check back soon!
Understanding Second Position on Guitar
Although you can technically play in any key, in any position on the guitar, certain positions lend themselves to particular keys. This video is about keys and scales that work well in second position that are easy to use and visualize.
Key Signatures in Second Position
First, let’s look at the key signatures that we’ll explore in second position. We’ll also be looking at other positions in future videos, so stay tuned!
Scale Patterns and Finger Patterns
When reading music in different keys in the second position, there are various keys that fit this position. Here are some examples:
- Key of C: Typically, you start with the third finger. In open position, you’re playing in the key of C or G. Moving up one fret, you can play the G scale starting with the second finger, which fits very nicely. This is one of those ubiquitous scales, meaning it’s all over the place. You don’t move out of position at all with any of the fingers and can play one finger per fret.
- Key of G: You can also play the G scale starting with the second finger. This fits very nicely and is ubiquitous.
- Key of A: Starting with the fourth finger, you have to move out of position when you go for that G sharp.
- Key of D: You don’t have to move at all out of that position.
Practical Tips for Playing in Second Position
When playing in the first position, you start with the third finger. In other positions, you typically start with the second finger or the fourth finger, depending on the key. For example, G or C, A or D. If you want to play three notes per string, this is useful for alternate picking.
Practice Pieces and Exercises
I’m going to put a link to these scales and to some practice pieces that you can use to practice reading music in these particular scales, in the keys of G, D, A, and C. [Insert YouTube video link here]
Conclusion
Mastering the second position on the guitar can open up new possibilities for your playing. Make sure to subscribe and get notified of more future videos on other topics like this. Comment below on this video and let me know if it was helpful or not.
