Major Scales

The Major Scale

Do, Re, Mi, Fa, So, La, Ti, Do

1,     2,   3,    4,    5,   6,   7,  8

Western Art Music is based around a series of seven ascending notes divided up into octaves - the major scale. The first note of the scale to be played is the root note; the other notes in the major scale are defined by their relationship to the root. Each note or tone is given a number or interval.

The Pentatonic Major Scale

Do, Re, Mi,     So, La,     Do

1,    2,    3,        5,   6,        8

Pentatonic scales are very popular with heavy metal and classic rock guitar players. If you compare the pentatonic major scale to its counterpart the major scale you will notice that it misses out the 4th interval and the 7th interval. This simple adaptation of the major scale has helped to create many the best guitar riffs, guitar licks and guitar solos in the known universe.

The Cycle of Fifths

Do, Re, Mi, Fa, So, La, Ti, Do

1,     2,   3,    4,    5,   6,   7,  8

C,    D,   E,    F,    G,   A,   B,  C

G,    A,   B,   C,    D,    E,   F#,G

D,    E,    F#,G,   A,    B,   C#,D

Most acoustic guitar accompaniment is based around a series of major scales known as the cycle of fifths. Understanding the theory behind the following scales will help you to understand some of the most brilliant chord changes in the world. Take some time to carefully play and patiently study the cycle of fifths and you will notice that there are mathematical patterns to found.

Major Scales – The Cycle of Fifths

Major Scales – Pentatonic Major Scales