C Major Guitar Scale

The C Major guitar scale in first position is considered a beginner's scale, and is a vital one to know. As with all scales, memorize it (so you can 'forget' it later).

We suggest that first you play the scale in order from the root (C) to the highest tone in this pattern (G), then to the lowest (E), & back to the root (as shown in the tab below).

After you know the scale fingering & can pick it efficiently, then use the audio file to solo (improvise) using the scale [as you may have done with E minor pentatonic]. When you do this, you are studying the way the tones interact with the chords. Focus on what you hear - listen to how tones you choose create reinforcement or tension within a given chord (a harmonic moment).

Playing scales well involves being one step ahead (mentally & in both hands). As you play a tone (a previously planned one), you are planning the next tone - in the picking (the leave) & fretting hand (the snap).

3 minute mp3 file, with the first 2+ minutes playing C-G-F-G, and the last minute sounding F-C-Dm-C. 5.7 MB mp3 download - click to open in new window. Right click to save file.

C Major Scale in a Frame

C Major in Tablature

It's a good idea to memorize the tones of this scale. It becomes a point of comparison for many others. A great way to do this is to say the note name as you play the tones, ascending & descending.

C Major Chord Scale

You should also practice playing chord scales. Here's a chart for the C Major chord scale. We recommend that you record this chord scale, and improvise to it. If you need fingerings for the chords, take a look at the C lesson. Or, convert them all to 7th chords (in C).

E minor Pentatonic Guitar Scale