Build Major Scales Using Blocks

The block method is a simple way to visualize and remember major scales on the piano. Here’s how it works:

Build a 3-Note Block: Start by creating a block of three notes, each separated by a whole step (two keys).

Example: C – D – E

Add a 4-Note Block: Immediately after the last note of the first block, build a block of four notes, each separated by a whole step.

Example: F – G – A – B

Connect with a Half Step: These two blocks are separated by a half step (one key).

Example: C – D – E + F – G – A – B

Complete the Scale: To finish the scale, add the starting note (the ‘root’) again, a half step above the last note of your second block.

Example: C – D – E + F – G – A – B + C

Key Points:

Whole steps = Two keys on the piano. There’s a whole step between each note within the blocks. (For example, there’s a whole step between C and D).
Half steps = One key on the piano. The two blocks are separated by a half step, and your full scale ends with a half step back to the starting note.

Summary

Understanding Piano Scales with the Block Method

Build a block of three whole steps. Example: C – D – E
Build a block of four whole steps, starting a half step above the last note of the first block. Example: F – G – A – B
The top note of your scale will be a half step above the final note of the second block. Example: C – D – E + F – G – A – B + C