The E9 tuning, with the use of pedals and levers, lends itself well to playing harmonized sixths. These can provide an abundance of expression for playing licks, melodies, solos, and more.
Having options for playing minor scales or modes, which are harmonized in sixths, can be beneficial when playing in minor keys, over chord vamps, and for playing over certain chords in a progression.
Below are tabs for the natural minor scale (Aeolian mode) and the Dorian scale/mode, both harmonized in sixths…
Feel free to click on an image for an enlarged view. The E lever denotes lowering that string a half step.
Thanks for checking out this page, hope it is helpful and makes playing more enjoyable! If you’re interested in diving deeper into playing E9 pedal steel, check out these resources and guides…
The Chord Guide for E9 Pedal Steel (E-Book, Digital Download)

Learn the chords on the E9 neck in a way that makes playing simple and enjoyable…
- Almost Every Chord You’ll Ever Need for E9
- Intuitive and Easy to Use
- Make Use of Pedal and Lever Combinations
- Example Tabs of Chord Movements
- Easily Utilize the Nashville Number System
- Great For Any Key and Style of Music
Includes a bonus section of over a hundred pages of extra chord charts, key references, and more!
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200 Country Riffs & Licks for E9 Pedal Steel
- Easy to Read Format
- Includes Rhythmic Notation
- Playing Over Chord Changes
- Great for Traditional Country, Alt-Country, & Honky-Tonk Styles
Right Hand Blocking & Picking Guide
A simple, straightforward, and intuitive approach to right hand technique.
Learn the best ways to block and use practice exercises that quickly improve your playing.
The Scale Book for E9 Pedal Steel
A handy and easy way to reference scales, positions, and more for practicing and playing E9 pedal steel. Includes BONUS tabs and diagrams…
With over 1,000 pages this reference is great to use while practicing and playing