How to play Major Scales using 3 Notes Per String

Before learning How to play Major Scales using 3 Notes Per String, you may have learned the major scale patterns linked here. Then you may have learned or come across another way to play scales with three notes per string.

When first learning 3 notes per string, a challenge to play the major scales this way may pose some difficulty.

The opportunity occurs with a longer fret range to cover. As you will see in the first pattern,

you have to play from the first fret up to the fifth fret.

You can help your stretch if you lower your thumb on the back of the guitar neck to

play the notes on the thicker string, the sixth string.

Another trick along with the lowering of the thumb is to move these patterns up the guitar neck

to a more comfortable position. Try them at the fifth, seventh, or even higher frets.

Three Notes Per String Pattern 1

Pattern one of 3 notes per string with a root note on the sixth string.

Three Notes Per String Pattern 2

Pattern 2 with the root note on the third fret. — Pattern 2 of 3 notes per string.

Three Notes Per String Pattern Three

Sixth string major scale root note — The 3rd pattern of a major scale using 3 notes per string.

Three Notes Per String Pattern 4

First pattern of 3 notes per string with the root note on the fifth string. — This is pattern 4 of the major scale with the root note on the fifth string.

Three Notes Per String Pattern 5

2nd pattern major scale with the root note on the third string, fifth fret. — Pattern 5 with a root note on the fifth string.

Three Notes Per String Pattern Six

The sixth pattern with root notes on the fifth string. — A fifth string major scale root note using pattern 6.

Three Notes Per String Pattern 7

Fourth string 3 notes per string root note. — Pattern 7 using the 4th string for a root note.

What Next

After learning these patterns and memorizing them, learn to use them in different keys by moving them around.

Just realize where the root notes are and know the notes under them for your new key.

Play a backing track of your own or find one on YouTube in the key of your choice.