G♯ major scale
The G♯ major scale is a theoretical scale that is enharmonically equivalent to A♭ Major Scale, but written with all sharp notes. While this scale is rarely used in practice due to its complex notation requiring multiple sharps and double sharps, understanding it is valuable for theoretical study and complete comprehension of musical relationships.
The scale follows the major scale pattern using sharp notes: G♯ to A♯ (whole), A♯ to B♯ (whole), B♯ to C♯ (half), C♯ to D♯ (whole), D♯ to E♯ (whole), E♯ to F𝄪 (whole), and F𝄪 to G♯ (half).
In practical applications, this scale is almost always written as A♭ major, which uses four flats and is much more straightforward to read and understand. The choice to use A♭ major over G♯ major reflects the general principle in music notation of selecting the key signature that is easier to read and write.
G♯ 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
- G♯ Ionian scale, G♯ Ionian mode
- Enharmonic equivalents
Related scales
Here are some scales that are related to the G♯ major scale. Or browse all piano scales.
G♯ harmonic minor scale
2-1-2-2-1-3-1
G♯ melodic minor scale
2-1-2-2-2-2-1
G♯ natural minor scale
2-1-2-2-1-2-2