How to Play Major Scales on the Piano
A scale in music includes all of the notes in a key. For example, in the key of C major, which has no sharps or flats, the scale is C-D-E-F-G-A-B-C. Learning all of the major scales on the piano will allow you to play fluently in any key.
Free Worship Piano Toolkit
Struggling to remember chords, scales, or what to play in each key?
Get instant access to clear, organized charts covering chords, scales, key names, and the Nashville Number System—everything you need to play worship piano with confidence.
An Introduction to Scales
Watch this video for a step-by-step tutorial on how to learn the C scale (hands separately and hands together), explanations of the scale diagrams, and additional resources:
Scale Diagrams
Fingering is very important when playing scales, so be sure to follow the fingering below carefully. (The thumb is finger #1, index finger is finger #2, middle finger is finger #3, ring finger is finger #4, and little finger is finger #5.)
Following are the diagrams for each major scale on the piano. A number in parentheses is used only at the very top or bottom of the scale. A slash indicates that either fingering can be used.
You can download a free PDF chart of all of the major scales on the piano here.
C major scale:
Db (D flat) major scale:
D major scale:
Eb (E flat) major scale:
E major scale:
F major scale:
F#/Gb (F sharp/G flat) major scale:
G major scale:
Ab (A flat) major scale:
A major scale:
Bb (B flat) major scale:
B major scale:
Want to learn more?
If you would like to learn how to play worship piano like a pro, check out my Worship Essentials courses. This unique approach combines a simple, easy-to-follow method of learning the piano along with teachings on the heart of worship - and it has proven successful for people of all ages and levels.
Or, if you would prefer one-on-one instruction, consider online lessons. Lessons incorporate the same content of the Worship Essentials courses but have the added bonus of one-on-one coaching and instruction.
Happy worshipping!