SCALES

THE MAJOR SCALE

The first and most important scale we learn is the Major scale. Almost all the music you hear (from Ed Sheeran, to traditional Irish music) is created with the major scale. The major scale has a happy sound when played. Learn the scale below and then improvise to the track.

Play the C major scale over this track. First try to play a random note to every second click, but then when you’re more confident try a note per click.

THE MINOR SCALE

The next most important scale we learn is the minor scale. Any song you hear with a sad mood is likely created with the minor scale. Learn the scale below and then improvise to the track by playing the notes randomly.

Play the A minor scale over this track. First try to play a random note to every second click, but then when you’re more confident try a note per click.

HARMONIC MINOR SCALE

There is a variation of the minor scale called the harmonic minor scale. This is the minor scale that’s used in classical music, but you will see it appear now and then in pop music too. Sometimes you will see both minor scales in the same song.

Play the A harmonic minor scale over this track. First try to play a random note to every second click, but then when you’re more confident try a note per click.