Although I know my scales, I am not a fan of then in general. I believe that they can serve as a "pallet" of tones that I can use to structure a melody that I hope is coherent. Nevertheless, I seem to be using a bit of trial and error regarding when to use the major vs minor blues scale based on what sounds good to my ear.
Are there any general rules of thumb to follow?
David- the (minor) blues scale is often used throughout a blues or even a tune as a way of playing on the complete tonality of the tune. The major blues scale can, in instances, be used the same way, but can also be used in a chordal specific manner. This question comes at a good time, because I've fairly recently posted a lesson called Play the Blues on Any Tune that may help clarify how both of these scales can be used not just in tonal center applications, but also in a targeted chordal application. Look for it in the New Lessons category and let me know if that helps clarify things.
Yes... very helpful lesson. Thanks