Major Scale Position 1

The major scale is the foundation of all western music. Here, we learn how to play it using shape 1.

Lesson aims

1. Be able to play shape 1 of the major scale to an appropriate standard
2. Understand the difference between the major scale and the major pentatonic scale
3. Introduction to three notes per string scale shapes (advanced concept)

Part 1 - The Major Scale - shape 1

On this page, we'll be using the C major scale for all examples. Notice that there are no sharps and flats in the C major scale, which is why it is so commonly used in our examples. It also makes it a very guitar and piano friendly key to understand. It is all the white notes on the piano for example.

Notice the highlighted C notes at each octave, which are all important notes where the scale licks and lead lines should typically begin and end.

Exercise 5a - The Major Scale - shape 1

Part 2 - The Major Scale - 3 Notes Per String

This is an advanced topic, but one i wanted to introduce here as so many people find it easier to memorise and play than the 'easier' shape above! The 3NPS (3 notes per string) concept won't be revisited in this course but it will be revisited in Lead Guitar 3.

Notice the highlighted C notes at each octave, which are all important notes where the scale licks and lead lines should typically begin and end.

Exercise 5b - The major scale 3 notes per string shape 1