In this second volume of the 10 Tonal Exercises series, Hristo explores 5 note groupings. He begins with a 9th arpeggio (5 note arpeggio) and systematically moves it to cover the fretboard. The approach is not intervallically strict but follows the physical fingering aspect.
This opens up ideas that feel the same (fingering-wise) but create different sounds. The entire book is in F Major. But, you could take any of these and create even more exercises. All you have to do is transpose them to different keys, modes and scales that you’re interested in.
The exercises have names that describe the physical movement of the tonal motive.
- They are:
- vertical
- horizontal
- diagonal
- zig-zag
- retrograde zig-zag
- diamond
- vertical twist
- spiral staircase
- reverse staircase
- ice skating
Some of these are obvious & some are logical names that Hristo has given to organise this material.
For the serious guitarist, this book can fuel your creativity. There’s a lot to digest & take in. From the actual motives to the way that Hristo maximises the use of one idea.
It’s beautiful to see how Hristo takes one concept into a logical conclusion. I enjoyed taking fragments of an exercise & then using it for my own ideas. This is a way to get out of playing the same old patterns and licks.
In the end, Hristo has created a book that combines both melodic interest & guitaristic fingering logic. It’s helpful for guitarists who want to create fresh lines that flow on the fingerboard.
Pros: Great book with great melodic ideas, lots of technical challenges included.
Cons: Exercises include entire range of the guitar. I recommend practicing these exercises on an electric guitar. Otherwise, please do octave adjustments and key changes when needed.
TLDR: Get this if you want to have more interesting melodic ideas.
This book was a gift from Hristo to me. Thanks Hristo!
You can get it here: http://gum.co/ptdfb
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