3 Minute Theory: How to Build a C Major Scale

Today we are talking about how to build a major scale. All scales use a series of whole steps and half steps to build certain patterns.

The pattern for a major scale is

Whole Step - Whole Step - Half Step - Whole Step -Whole Step - Whole Step - Half Step

To build a C major scale, start on C and follow this pattern going up.

Here is a C major Scale on the piano keyboard:

Formula for C Major Scale on Piano

You can follow this same pattern to build any major scale on the piano, simply by changing your starting note. For example, a D Major scale starts on D and follows the major scale pattern, Whole Step - Whole Step - Half Step - Whole Step -Whole Step - Whole Step - Half Step.

All major scales other than C, incorporate black notes on the piano, making C major a great starting point.

You can practice this pattern using the following printable:

C Major Scale Practice Printable