๐ผ Scale Finder
C Major scale
Choose a root note and a scale type (major, minor, various modes, and more) to see the notes that make up that scale, labeled with their scale degree. Handy for improvising, composing, and learning music theory.
How to use
- Choose a root note.
- Choose a scale type.
- The notes that make up the scale are shown automatically, along with their degree (1st, 2nd, ...).
How the calculation works
Choose a root and a scale type to see the notes of the scale with their degrees (1โ7). It covers 12 scales: major, three minors, pentatonics, blues and the modes. Seven-note scales use each letter AโG exactly once, so the 4th of F major is Bโญ, not A#, and the 6th of Eโญ minor is Cโญ, not B. This matches the key signature, so you can compare it directly with sheet music. Pentatonic and blues scales are spelled according to the degrees they use (such as 1, 2, 3, 5, 6).
Worked example
C major โ C D E F G A B F major โ F G A Bโญ C D E A natural minor โ A B C D E F G A harmonic minor โ A B C D E F G# D Dorian โ D E F G A B C C blues โ C Eโญ F Gโญ G Bโญ A minor pentatonic โ A C D E G
Things to be aware of
- Scales that share the same notes, such as C major and A natural minor, are called relative keys.
- Minor pentatonic and blues scales are the staples of guitar improvisation.
- Keys such as Gโญ major and C# major produce unfamiliar names like Cโญ and E#, which are still correct.
FAQ
What are "modes"?
Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, and the other modes are scales that use the same seven notes as the major scale but start from a different note, giving each a distinctive character.
What is a pentatonic scale?
A scale made up of five notes. The major and minor pentatonic scales are especially common in rock, blues, and pop improvisation.
What's the difference between harmonic minor and melodic minor?
Harmonic minor raises the 7th degree of the natural minor scale by a semitone. Melodic minor (ascending) raises both the 6th and 7th degrees. Each gives a distinct sound.