How to Play a G Mixolydian Scale on Piano

If you know how to play a C major scale, then learning a G Mixolydian scale on piano shouldn't pose much of a challenge. There are no flats or sharps in the key signature. The G Mixolydian scale is the fifth mode of the C scale. Because there are only white keys, this scale forces the pianist to focus on agile finger crossings and quick octave turns. Very little forearm movement is required to move up and down the scale quickly.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Practice the scale with your right hand first. Place your thumb on G4. Ascend a major third interval through G, A and B. Bring your thumb under your middle finger to C5. Raise your wrist slightly. Ascend the remaining perfect fifth interval through the notes C, D, E, F and G natural. Place your pinkie finger on G5 and stop. Listen to the dominant sound quality of the second half of the scale versus the major quality of the first half. This is one of the unique qualities of the G Mixolydian scale.

2. Descend the scale a perfect fifth interval through G, F, E, D and C natural. Keep your fingers high off of the keyboard. Cross your middle finger over your thumb to B5. Continue to descend the last major third interval through B, A and G natural. Place your thumb on G4 and stop.

3. Practice the G Mixolydian scale with your left hand. Place your pinkie finger on G3. Ascend a perfect fifth interval through the notes G, A, B, C and D natural. Cross your middle finger over your thumb at E4. Continue up the remaining minor third interval through F, E, and G natural. Rest your thumb on G4 and stop.

4. Descend the scale with your left hand. There are no pivots or octave turns in order to come down the scale, so focus on forearm stability and wrist height. Descend a minor third interval through G, F and E. Bring your thumb under your middle finger to D4. Continue down the last perfect fifth interval through D, C, B, A and G natural. Place your thumb on G3 and stop.

5. Practice the G Mixolydian scale with both hands simultaneously. The patterns of each hand are very simple and should allow you to focus only on speed and wrist flexibility. The right hand will always cross fingers before the left hand. Practice this scale at a starting tempo of 100 beats per minute and slowly increase the tempo to 200 beats per minute. Elevate your wrists and keep your forearms stable as you ascend and descend the scale.