This video outlines an approach that touches all the bases of the diligent work that we do on patterns, technique and theory before indulging in improvisation or performance.
It can be a quick workout like this example, or a more in-depth version if time permits.
Keep your fretboard diagram and Circle of 5ths handy.
Choose and build a scale or mode in one position
Rehearse its notes, intervals, shape and fingering.
Repeat until memorised.
Internalise its sound and the mood it evokes.
Write it down and record with your smartphone video.
Now consider the Chords & Arpeggios which the scale can offer
Choose the triad, one extension and one suspension.
Build a shape for the chord and arpeggio version.
Rehearse the notes, intervals, shapes and fingerings.
Internalise the sound and the mood it evokes.
Write it down and record.
Now focus on one technique and apply to the shapes. This might be alternate muted-picking or sliding between the notes for example.
Now you are ready to be creative with what you have built in whichever way you enjoy.
You might set up a looper with the chord and then start soloing with the scale but even designing a simple phrase is enough.
If it turns out ok then record it and write it down for later. These will become your own melodies and eventually blossom into music..
Build different shapes every day.
