1. The Trap of Endless Scales
Most guitarists hit this phase: they binge on scales, modes, and exotic names — Phrygian Dominant, Lydian #2, Dorian b2 — until it all blurs into confusion.
They study more, but play less.
And when it’s time to improvise, they freeze — paralyzed by too many options, or by not understanding how to actually use the information they have only intellectually acquired.
Music theory is meant to clarify, not clutter.
But when you drown in it, you lose touch with the sound itself.
2. Musashi’s Principle: See the Essence, Discard the Extra
In The Book of Five Rings, Musashi warns:
“Perception is strong and sight weak. In strategy, it is important to see distant things as if they were close.”
He also says:
“Do not collect weapons and ornaments. Use what you have.”
The same applies to music theory.
You don’t need more scales — you need clearer vision.
See the essence of what a scale or chord does, when and how to use them and practice that, until you don’t have to think about it anymore.
Discard everything that doesn’t serve the sound.
3. The Minimalist Theory Roadmap
Think of theory as a toolbox:
- Chords show harmony.
- Keys show relationship.
- Scales show movement.
That’s it.
Each tool has a purpose — nothing more.
When you practice, ask yourself: Am I using this to make music, or just to feel smarter?
The goal isn’t to know everything.
It’s to use what matters — fluently, like you speak your own native language.
4. The Takeaway: Know What Matters, Ignore the Rest
A samurai sharpens his blade, not his collection.
A musician should do the same.
Learn just enough theory to express what you hear.
Then stop studying — and start playing.
Because true mastery begins when the noise fades,
and only sound remains.
Cosmin