How to Play a G Major Scale on Classical Guitar

Learn to Play a G Major Scale on Guitar

Let’s learn how to play a G Major scale on guitar.

G Major Scale Guitar Notes

Here are the note names in the G Major scale:

G – A – B – C – D – E – F#

Key signature

G Major has one sharp, F#, in the key signature. A key signature saves us from having to write accidentals all over the music so the notation is easier to read. Just remember: in G Major, anytime you see an F it will be an F#. The only exception would be if you see a natural sign next to that note or if the piece changes keys.

One-octave G Major scale

Let’s start out with a simple one-octave scale in first position. So we’ll place the left-hand third finger on the third fret of the sixth string — which is G.

Two-octave G Major scale

The two-octave scale just continues where the one-octave left off, but goes all the way up to the G on the first string, third fret.

Two-octave G Major scale 2nd Position

This is a fantastic scale to use when developing technique as it all in one position and contains a variety of left-hand movements.

Three-octave G Major guitar scale

Next, the three-octave scale is a much more advanced scale and takes us all the way up to the G on the fifteenth fret of the first string! This scale starts in second position. (Learn more about playing in positions.) You’ll notice a lot of notes on ledger lines, especially above the staff.

The G Major Scale in Classical Guitar Repertoire

The Minuet by Christian Petzold features a G Major scale in the upper line at the beginning of the piece:

And the Waltz by Ferdinando Carulli is a great example of the G Major arpeggio: