How to Play Major Scales on the Electric Guitar

After first picking up an electric guitar and giving the strings and few picks, it is time to try out a few notes. Learn the notes listed below and put them together to make a G major scale. The scale spans from low G, to A, B, C, D, E ,F sharp and ends with G. Practice the scale, and soon you will play simple songs. Read on to learn how to play major scales on the electric guitar.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Begin the scale with a G, played on the top string which is the low E string. Put your index finger on the third string, and pick that string to play a G.

2. Move onto an A by placing your middle finger on the fifth fret of the same string, the low E string.

3. Place your index finger on the second fret of the second string to play a B. Keep moving up the scale with a C on the third fret of the second string followed by a D on the fifth fret of the second string.

4. Continue on in the scale with a finger on the second fret of the third string for the note E, the fourth fret on the third string for an F sharp and the fifth fret on the third string for a high G.

5. Follow the same note progression in reverse so that the notes go from high G to low G. Practice this scale forward and backwards until it comes smoothly.

6. Use the notes in this scale to play simple tunes. Some popular rock songs in this key are "I Want to Hold Your Hand" by the Beatles and "Brown-Eyed Girl" by Van Morrison.