Lesson Introduction

Learning the open C major scale is fundamental for guitarists, providing a strong foundation for musical theory and improving finger dexterity. This lesson will guide you through the steps to play the open C major scale on the guitar, focusing on starting from the third fret of the A string and avoiding the high E string. By understanding the finger placements and intervals, you will be able to play the C major scale confidently.

The Formula of the Scale

The C major scale consists of seven notes, arranged in a specific sequence of intervals that define its sound. The formula for the C major scale is:

• Root (R): C
• Major Second (2): D
• Major Third (3): E
• Perfect Fourth (4): F
• Perfect Fifth (5): G
• Major Sixth (6): A
• Major Seventh (7): B

How to Play the Scale

To play the C major scale starting from the third fret of the A string, you will use the first three frets of the guitar, incorporating open strings where applicable and avoiding the high E string. Here are the detailed steps:

Starting on the A String

1. Third Fret (A String): Place your ring finger on the third fret of the A string. This note is C (root, R).

Moving to the D String

2. Open D String: This note is D (2).
3. Second Fret (D String): Place your middle finger on the second fret of the D string. This note is E (major third, 3).
4. Third Fret (D String): Place your ring finger on the third fret of the D string. This note is F (perfect fourth, 4).

On the G String

5. Open G String: This note is G (perfect fifth, 5).
6. Second Fret (G String): Place your middle finger on the second fret of the G string. This note is A (6).

On the B String

7. Open B String: This note is B (7).
8. First Fret (B String): Place your index finger on the first fret of the B string. This note is C (root, R).

Putting It All Together

When you play the C major scale, you should hear a smooth, ascending sequence of notes that move through each interval of the scale. Here’s a quick summary of the finger placements and notes for the open C major scale starting from the third fret of the A string:

• A String: Third fret (C, root, R)
• D String: Open (D, 2), second fret (E, 3), third fret (F, 4)
• G String: Open (G, 5), second fret (A, 6)
• B String: Open (B, 7), first fret (C, R)

Tips for Playing the C Major Scale

1. Proper Finger Placement: Position your fingers just behind the frets, not directly on them, to produce a clear sound.
2. Finger Pressure: Apply sufficient pressure to avoid any buzzing. Too little pressure will result in muted notes, while too much can cause strain.
3. Smooth Transitions: Practice transitioning smoothly from one note to the next to ensure the scale sounds fluid and connected.
4. Alternate Picking: Use alternate picking (down-up-down-up) with your picking hand to maintain a steady rhythm and even sound.

Practice Exercises

1. Slow Playing: Play the scale slowly, ensuring each note rings clearly and evenly. This will help you develop finger strength and accuracy.
2. Scale Sequences: Practice playing the scale in different sequences (e.g., ascending, descending, skipping notes) to develop a deeper understanding of the scale pattern.

Conclusion

By following these instructions and practicing regularly, you’ll master the open C major scale starting from the third fret of the A string, while avoiding the high E string. This scale is foundational for your guitar playing and will prepare you for more advanced techniques and musical pieces. Keep practicing, and you’ll see improvement in your finger dexterity and overall playing skill.