Major
G Major Scale on Piano
G major has a single sharp — F# — and sits comfortably under the hand, which is why it is one of the earliest scales introduced after C. Guitarists love this key, and it is a staple of folk, bluegrass, and a huge portion of the classical repertoire.
Notes of the G Major Scale
| Degree | Note | Interval from root |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | G | Root |
| 2 | A | Major 2nd |
| 3 | B | Major 3rd |
| 4 | C | Perfect 4th |
| 5 | D | Perfect 5th |
| 6 | E | Major 6th |
| 7 | F# | Major 7th |
| 8 | G | Octave |
W-W-H-W-W-W-HW · W · H · W · W · W · HThe major pattern transposed so the single half step between scale degrees 7 and 1 falls on F# to G.
G Major on the Staff
One octave ascending in treble clef with the key signature of G major (1 sharp: F#).
Fingering
- 1G
- 2A
- 3B
- 1C
- 2D
- 3E
- 4F#
- 5G
- 5G
- 4A
- 3B
- 2C
- 1D
- 3E
- 2F#
- 1G
Numbers indicate fingers: 1 = thumb, 2 = index, 3 = middle, 4 = ring, 5 = little. Both rows are shown in ascending order (low note to high note). Note the left hand starts on the pinky (5) at the lowest note and crosses the middle finger over the thumb to continue upward — that is why the left-hand numbers count down before cycling again.
Diatonic Chords in G Major
The seven triads built on each scale degree — the harmonic backbone of any piece written in this key.
Where You Hear This Scale
G major is often described as outdoorsy and open, partly because its tonic and fifth line up with the open strings of standard-tuned guitars. Mozart, Beethoven, and countless songwriters return to G for melodies that feel warm without being heavy. On piano, the F# sits conveniently under the fourth finger of the right hand, making ascending runs feel natural.
Train Your Ear to Recognize This Scale
Put what you learned into practice with Fortepian's free scale identification exercise. Hear a scale and identify it — 9 progressive levels, from major and minor to modes, pentatonic, blues, and exotic scales. No signup needed.
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