Learn the Open Position F Major Scale
We can deepen our study of the open position by learning the notes of the F major scale.
The keys of C, G and F are three of the most common keys in music.
Following the major scale formula from F results in the notes F, G, A, B♭, C, D, E, F. When compared to the C major scale, this scale differs by only one note. The "B" will turn into B♭. We call this note B♭ instead of A♯ because all major scales will have one each of the 7 letters of the alphabet.
The Chords
The main chords that match this scale are F, G-, A-, B♭, C, D-. Because some of these chords are not easy to play on the guitar, it is not a common key for guitar music. However, many types of music use this key often; it is considered an undemanding key on piano, trumpet, and other instruments.
The three keys of C major, G major and F major provide plentiful options for singing songs. If a song is too low or too high in one of these keys and you transpose it to one of the other keys you will likely find that the range of the melody is much more comfortable.
The Scale Pattern
How to Practice
- Play the scale up and down repeatedly to learn the pattern.
- Visualize how the pattern differs from the C major scale. This will help you learn both scales more effectively.
- Play the scale up and down, this time saying the names of the notes. ("F", "G", etc...)
- Play the scale up and down, saying the degree numbers. E is 7, F is 1, and so forth.
- Play the scale up and down, saying the solfege names for each note: ti, do, re, etc.
