Level 1
The Major Scale
Use one step pattern to build the central scale of Western music.
0/6
1
The Step Formula
A scale is an ordered set of notes built around a root. The major scale contains seven different notes before the root repeats at the octave.
Major Scale Formula
Whole, Whole, Half, Whole, Whole, Whole, Half. Write it as W W H W W W H.
A whole step spans 2 frets. A half step spans 1 fret. Follow the seven moves in order and you will arrive one octave above the root.
| Move | Step | Fret distance |
|---|---|---|
| 1 to 2 | Whole | 2 |
| 2 to 3 | Whole | 2 |
| 3 to 4 | Half | 1 |
| 4 to 5 | Whole | 2 |
| 5 to 6 | Whole | 2 |
| 6 to 7 | Whole | 2 |
| 7 to 1 | Half | 1 |
The half steps sit between degrees 3 and 4, then 7 and 1
Quick Check
Which pattern builds a major scale?
Quick Check
How many frets are in a whole step?
Complete the Quick Check above to unlock Answer correctly to continue
Complete the Quick Check above to unlock Answer correctly to continue
Complete the Quick Check above to unlock Answer correctly to continue