How to Play the Harmonic Major Scale for Guitar

The harmonic major scale is built by lowering the sixth note of any major scale. Though the scale is rarely used in pop and rock music, jazz and classical guitarists have used this scale for decades. Learning to play the harmonic major scale on guitar with proper technique and fingering will allow you to play this scale in any key across the neck.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Place the left-hand middle finger on the third fret of the fifth string. Pluck the string with a pick or right-hand fingers.

2. Place the left-hand pinkie finger on the fifth fret of the fifth string. Play the note.

3. Place the left-hand index finger on the second fret of the fourth string. Play the note.

4. Place the left-hand middle finger on the third fret of the fourth string. Play the note.

5. Place the left-hand pinkie finger on the fifth fret of the fourth string. Play the note.

6. Place the left-hand index finger on the first fret of the third string. Play the note.

7. Place the left-hand ring finger on the fourth fret of the third string. Play the note.

8. Place the left-hand pinkie finger on the fifth fret of the third string. Play the note.

9. 

   Play all eight notes in a row to produce the C harmonic major scale. Refer to the example as needed.

10. Practice playing the harmonic major scale in different keys along the fifth string. The first note of the scale is the root, which indicates the key. For example, starting this scale on the tenth fret will produce a G harmonic major scale.

Tips & Warnings

• Thinking of the harmonic major scale as a cross between the major and harmonic minor scales will make it easier to memorize and reference this scale.

Resources

• Online Guitar Tips and Lessons
• Tips on Practicing Scales