Learn natural, harmonic, and melodic major in every natural, sharp, and flat key.
Today's tempo ladder
Slow60BPMWorking70BPMGoal120BPM
Loop this measure
One-octave G natural major ascent
Eight even eighth notes from open G to fret 5 on the D course.
Target120 BPM
Type
Root
Accidental
Direction
1 measure · repeats
Fretboard view
Watch the tab on the mandolin
Ready
Explanation
What this develops
Natural major is also called the Ionian mode. It is the familiar do–re–mi sound: whole–whole–half–whole–whole–whole–half.
The major third is the note that makes the scale feel unmistakably major. Many listeners describe Ionian as bright or settled, although rhythm, tempo, and phrasing can completely change its mood.
Fun trivia: every natural major scale has a relative natural minor containing the same notes. G major and E minor, for example, share their notes but make different notes feel like home.
Coach's tip
Hum do–re–mi before playing. If your fingers get lost, your ear can help guide them back to the major sound.
Practice plan
Take it to the instrument
1
Play the ascent slowly and sing or say the root before starting.
2
Play Descent, listening for the seventh resolving down through the scale.
3
Choose Both and keep the pulse steady across the octave turnaround.
Finish this lesson
Mark it complete when you can play three relaxed, clean loops.