The Major Scale – 5^th String Position

The notes of the major scale in the 5^th string position are the same as those in the 6^th string position. However, this time we are starting the scale higher up on the fretboard. This will increase the pitch of the scale. The 5^th string position also requires a shift in position, making it a bit more complicated at first. Let’s begin.

This time, let’s learn the scale using D as the root note. This will make it a D major scale. Begin by placing your second finger on the 5^th fret (D note) of the 5^th string (A string). Play the 5^th fret, then the 7^th fret with your pinky. Move down to the D string, and play the 4^th fret with your first finger, the 5^th fret with your second finger, and the 7^th fret with your pinky. Next, shift down to the G string, and play the 4^th fret with your first finger, the 6^th fret with your third finger, and the 7^th fret with your pinky. This completes one octave of the D major scale.

Now, stay on the G string and slide your pinky up two frets to the 9^th fret. Play this note with your pinky. Then, shift down to the B string, and play the 7^th fret with your first finger, the 8^th fret with your second finger, and the 10^th fret with your pinky. (Note: Due to the difference in tuning between the G and B strings, your first finger will naturally want to go to the 6^th fret. Be aware of this, making sure your first finger goes to the 7^th fret instead.) Once you have played the notes on the B string, move down to the high E string and play the 7^th, 9^th, and 10^th frets. Now you have completed the second octave of the D major scale.

Reversing the scale

Once you have finished your run up the neck of the guitar, work the scale back until you finish on the root of the 5^th string (in this case the 7^th fret, D). Be extra careful as you transition the slide back to the original position on the G string. It can get extra tricky due to the tuning differences between the B and G strings. When the scale is played correctly at a normal tempo, it will sound like this:

Practice Assignment

Along with the major scale in the 6^th string position, this scale shape should be practiced for at least 10-15 after warm-ups. Play every note with precision, and do not rush. Take extra time when it comes time to shift the position of the scale. It is much better to play slowly and well, than quickly and poor. Also, try shifting the scale around so you can get used to starting on different roots. Again, refer to the All Notes on the Fretboard chart for help locating the notes on the 5^th string.

Now that we’ve learned the major scale in two positions, let’s apply our knowledge in, Lesson 4: Major and Minor Chords.