The Key of C Major for Beginners
Welcome to the first lesson in our beginner course on the key of C Major. In this lesson we delve into fundamental music theory focusing on the C Major scale and the chords that we can create using the notes of the scale.
The C Major Scale
The C Major scale is an ideal starting point for beginners as it contains all white keys making it easy to visualise the notes on the piano. We start by outlining the correct fingering to ensure smooth transitions as we move up and down the scale. We also emphasise the importance of a natural wrist position whilst playing scales on the piano.
The Numerical Approach To Scales
Transitioning from traditional note names to a numerical understanding of scales offers a more versatile and functional framework for analysing jazz harmony. This approach involves viewing the scale as a series of numbers rather than letters. The numeric system simplifies the process of building chords, chord progressions, and understanding the relationships of the chords within a particular song or key.
C Major Diatonic 7th Chords
From each degree of the C Major scale we construct triads and then extend these triads to create seventh chords which adds a richer sound compared to basic triad voicings.
7th chords are a foundational component of jazz harmony and pave the way for exploring more complex chord progressions and voicings.
Related Lessons
A seventh chord is a triad which has been extended to include the 7th degree of the scale. This creates a fuller sound than simple 3-note triads.
The triad is the basic building block for many different types of chords. The 4 types of triads are major, minor, diminished and augmented.
Scales provide the basis for understanding harmony. Learning and memorising the 12 major scales is the first step in learning jazz piano.
Practice Tips
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Warm up with the C Major Scale: Focus on correct fingering and maintaining a natural wrist position when moving up and down the scale. Practice the C Major scale over 1 octave, and then 2 octaves.
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Think Numerically: In jazz, we visualise scales numerically which helps to analyse chords, chord progressions, and jazz standards. For each major scale, think 1-2-3-4-5-6-7 instead of the note names.
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7th Chord Drills: Learn the diatonic 7th chords in the key of C Major and complete the drills in chapters 4 and 5 to help you visualise the notes of each 7th chord split between 2 hands.
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Apply The Theory: In the upcoming lessons of this course we use these concepts to play "Moon River" & "Fly Me To The Moon" - spend 50% of your practice time on the theory drills, and 50% playing jazz standards.
Reviewing
Being able to read and play music at intermediate and advanced level
I have skipped the basics
So returning to basics
Damn it