A major scale
The A major scale, with its three sharps (F♯, C♯, and G♯), is renowned for its warm and brilliant tonality. This scale has been favored by many composers for its natural resonance with string instruments and its ability to convey both joy and tenderness.
The scale follows the major scale pattern: A to B (whole), B to C♯ (whole), C♯ to D (half), D to E (whole), E to F♯ (whole), F♯ to G♯ (whole), and G♯ to A (half). The combination of three sharps creates a bright yet balanced sound.
A major is particularly effective in string compositions, as it takes advantage of the natural resonance of open strings on violins and other string instruments. Its bright character has made it a popular choice for both classical compositions and contemporary popular music.
A major scale details
Information and technical details of the scale.
- Category
- western
- Type
- Heptatonic (7 notes per octave)
- Intervals
- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1
- Formula
- 2-2-1-2-2-2-1
- Also known as
- A Ionian scale, A Ionian mode
Related scales
Here are some scales that are related to the A major scale. Or browse all piano scales.
A harmonic minor scale
2-1-2-2-1-3-1
A Ionian scale
2-2-1-2-2-2-1
A melodic minor scale
2-1-2-2-2-2-1
A natural minor scale
2-1-2-2-1-2-2