1. Major scales
A major scale follows a specific pattern of whole steps and half steps: whole, whole, half, whole, whole, whole, half. C major is C-D-E-F-G-A-B-C because the piano naturally gives that pattern without sharps or flats.
Major scales usually sound stable, bright, and complete, but mood also depends on rhythm, register, harmony, and context.
2. Natural, harmonic, and melodic minor
A natural minor scale has a darker sound than major. A minor is A-B-C-D-E-F-G-A. Harmonic minor raises the seventh scale degree, creating a stronger pull back to tonic. Melodic minor often raises the sixth and seventh degrees ascending, especially in classical theory.
A-B-C-D-E-F-G-A
No sharps or flats in A natural minor.
A-B-C-D-E-F-G♯-A
Raised 7th creates leading tone.
A-B-C-D-E-F♯-G♯-A
Raised 6th and 7th ascending.
C major / A minor
Same key signature, different tonic.
3. Scale fingering for piano
Good scale fingering keeps the hand smooth. In C major right hand, a common fingering is 1-2-3, thumb under, 1-2-3-4-5. In the left hand, a common fingering is 5-4-3-2-1, third finger over, 3-2-1. Fingerings change depending on the key, so learn them carefully.
4. Key signatures
A key signature tells which sharps or flats are normally used in a piece. G major has one sharp, F-sharp. F major has one flat, B-flat. Key signatures reduce clutter and show the likely tonal center.