Major
Formula: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
The basic major scale (the Ionian mode). Use it for major keys, clear melodies, and mapping the fretboard in a stable tonal center.
Tools & Resources > Scale Library
Scales in Open
Tunings
Learn scales in Open D, DADGAD, Open G, Open C, Open A, Open E, minor open tunings, and G Modal.
Choose a tuning, root note, and scale below to see where the notes sit on the fretboard.
Tip: To get started with basic and beautiful chords in open tunings, take the free online lesson.
Fretboard Diagram
This tool maps common scales across open guitar tunings. Select a tuning, choose a root note, then choose a scale. Root notes are marked more strongly so you can see the tonal center immediately.
You can also switch the diagram between note names and scale degrees. This makes it easier to study both the layout of the tuning and the function of each note in the scale.
Selected Scale
D Major in Open D
Scales Included
The library includes major, minor, pentatonic, blues, modal, harmonic minor, and melodic minor scales. These are useful starting points for learning melodies, finding notes, and understanding open tunings more clearly.
Natural Minor
Formula: 1 2 ♭3 4 5 ♭6 ♭7
The standard minor scale (the Aeolian mode). Use it for minor keys and darker progressions without the raised seventh of harmonic minor.
Major Pentatonic
Formula: 1 2 3 5 6
A five-note major scale that removes the fourth and seventh. It is useful for simple melodic ideas and open, consonant sounds.
Minor Pentatonic
Formula: 1 ♭3 4 5 ♭7
A five-note minor scale used in many folk, blues, rock, and acoustic guitar contexts.
Blues Scale
Formula: 1 ♭3 4 ♭5 5 ♭7
The minor pentatonic scale with an added flat fifth. Use it when you want a more blues-oriented color.
Dorian
Formula: 1 2 ♭3 4 5 6 ♭7
A minor mode with a natural sixth. It works well for minor sounds that feel less dark than natural minor.
Phrygian
Formula: 1 ♭2 ♭3 4 5 ♭6 ♭7
A minor mode with a flat second. It creates a darker, more tense sound.
Lydian
Formula: 1 2 3 ♯4 5 6 7
A major mode with a raised fourth. It creates a bright, floating sound.
Mixolydian
Formula: 1 2 3 4 5 6 ♭7
A major mode with a flat seventh. It is common in folk, blues, rock, and modal guitar music.
Locrian
Formula: 1 ♭2 ♭3 4 ♭5 ♭6 ♭7
A diminished mode with a flat fifth. It is less commonly used as a home sound, but useful for fretboard study.
Harmonic Minor
Formula: 1 2 ♭3 4 5 ♭6 7
A minor scale with a raised seventh. It gives minor keys a stronger pull back to the root.
Melodic Minor
Formula: 1 2 ♭3 4 5 6 7
The ascending melodic minor form. It is a minor scale with natural sixth and seventh degrees.