The A, B, and D Major Scales

Applying the Structure of the Major Scale to Any Key

As noted in a previous article, all scales can be modified and played in a different key simply by selecting a different root note. A different root note will ensure that the notes are different, but since the intervals are the same, the scale will retain the underlying characteristics that are associated with that scale. For example, if you play the major scale in the key of C (meaning where C is the root note) or whether you play it in the key of E (where E is the root note), you will notice that the underlying qualities are the same, in spite of the differences in notes. Which key you choose should be a matter of your preference or, if you are in a band, which key other members of your band prefer to perform in -- especially the vocalist, who may be limited by his/her vocal range.

To review, the structure of the major scale is as follows:

• Root Note
• 2nd = root note + whole step (i.e. 2 frets)
• 3rd = 2nd + whole step
• 4th = 3rd + half step (i.e. 1 fret)
• 5th = 4th + whole step
• 6th = 5th + whole step
• 7th = 6th + whole step

Learning the A, B, and D Major Scales

Based on the major scale interval structure noted above, below is a list of the notes that would be included when the major scale is played in each respective key:

Major Scale in the key of A (aka A Major Scale)

• Root = A
• 2nd = B
• 3rd = C#
• 4th = D
• 5th = E
• 6th = F#
• 7th = Ab

Below is an audio clip showing the A major scale played in its entirety from the root through the seventh.



Major Scale in the key of B (aka B Major Scale)

• Root = B
• 2nd = C#
• 3rd = Eb
• 4th = E
• 5th = F#
• 6th = Ab
• 7th = Bb

Below is an audio clip showing the B major scale played in its entirety from the root through the seventh.



Major Scale in the key of D (aka D Major Scale)

• Root = D
• 2nd = E
• 3rd = F#
• 4th = G
• 5th = A
• 6th = B
• 7th = C#

Below is an audio clip showing the D major scale played in its entirety from the root through the seventh.



The key to scales is practice. Once you have an intuitive understanding of scales, creating musical pieces using scales, improvising within musical pieces using scales, and instinctively playing the right notes will become second nature.

Got Something to Say?

Have a question? Or want to add something to make this article better? Hit the reply button to participate. (For past questions from all ActoGuitar lessons, check out ActoGuitar's question forum (click here to go there).