E Major Scale on Guitar
The E Major Scale has the notes E – F# – G# – A – B – C# – D#. Major is the foundation of Western harmony. Bright, happy and resolved.
E Major Scale notes
| Degree | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Note | E | F# | G# | A | B | C# | D# |
Its relative minor is C# minor: C# natural minor uses exactly the same notes.
Fretboard diagram (frets 0 to 12)
7 positions across the neck
Learn the scale one box at a time and then link neighbouring boxes. Each diagram covers a five-fret window.
Position 1 (frets 0–4)
Position 2 (frets 1–5)
Position 3 (frets 3–7)
Position 4 (frets 4–8)
Position 5 (frets 6–10)
Position 6 (frets 8–12)
Position 7 (frets 10–14)
How to use the E Major Scale
Melodies, riffs and solos in a major key. Most pop songs are built from the notes of a major scale.
Practice tip. Learn the scale across one string first, then link the patterns. Every major scale uses the same whole-whole-half-whole-whole-whole-half step pattern.
Chords in E Major
These seven chords are built from the notes of the E Major Scale, and are the ones you will hear in songs in this key.
| Numeral | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | E |
| ii | F#m |
| iii | G#m |
| IV | A |
| V | B |
| vi | C#m |
| vii° | D#dim |
More Major scales and related scales
FAQ
What are the notes of the E Major Scale?
The E Major Scale contains E, F#, G#, A, B, C#, D#.
What is the E Major Scale used for?
Major is the foundation of Western harmony. Use it for melodies, riffs and solos over major chords.
How many notes are in the Major scale?
7 notes: E, F#, G#, A, B, C#, D#, then the root E again an octave higher.
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