Scales are everywhere in music, so it makes sense that you should know how to play them well. Here are some tips on how to conquer them.
Here's How:
To play a C major scale, start with your thumb on C and play the first 3 notes with fingers 1, 2, and 3.
Now pick up your hand and move it so that your thumb is resting on the F note above the C where you started playing.
Play the next 5 notes in a row one after the other using fingers 1 to 5.
Congratulations! You've just played a C major scale. So what's next?
Now put the two parts together. Start with your thumb on middle C, then play the first 3 notes C, D, and E.
As you play, slide your thumb UNDER your other fingers, ready to play the note F.
Place your thumb on the note F after you've played the first 3 notes, and continue up the scale as before.
Practice doing this slowly until it feels comfortable, and then try playing the whole thing in one, smooth motion.
To play a G major scale, do exactly the same thing starting on the note G. Play the first three notes, G, A, and B with fingers 1, 2, and 3, then move your hand so your thumb rests on the next note, C.
Practice this a few times, then try doing it in one smooth motion as before. Remember that your fourth finger will be playing the note F SHARP when you get to the top of the scale.
For the left hand, work in the SAME WAY but backwards -- i.e. start with fingers 5 through 1, move your hand, and finish with fingers 3, 2, and 1. OR you can practice left hand scales descending, so your fingers move in exactly the same way as for right hand scales.
To go back down the scale, cross over your THIRD FINGER in time to play the note E (C major) or B (G major) for the last 3 notes of the scale.
For the left hand, work in the SAME WAY but backwards -- i.e. start with fingers 5 through 1, move your hand, and finish with fingers 3, 2, and 1. OR you can practice left hand scales descending, so your fingers move in exactly the same way as for right hand scales.
Tips:
Go slowly!
Practice each step as often as necessary.
If anything hurts, stop!
Stay relaxed at all times.
What You Need:
- Fingers.
- A keyboard.
- Some patience!
