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The Major Scale Project

The Major Scale Project is a systematic method for developing technique and facility in all major keys.  You should progress through at least one step of the project each marking period.  You can start at a level higher than level 1 and you may elect to jump ahead, provided you are getting good scores at your current level.

How does it work?

  1. You will start at STEP 1 - although you may elect to start at a higher step if you are prepared.
  2. You will submit a Scale Evaluation each marking period.
    • Earn 5 or more points (out of 10) and move to next step
    • Earn 4 or less points (out of 10) and repeat the step next marking period
    • You may elect to remain on a step if you score between 5-7 points
    • You may elect to jump ahead if you feel prepared
    • Once you complete the final Step (21 for Winds, 16 for Percussion) you no longer have to submit Scale Evaluations
  3. If you complete one step per marking period, you will end on Step 16 when you graduate.


Practice the Major Scale Project

Follow these simple steps to insure success and progress.

  1. Play all 12 scales everyday, starting right now.
  2. Play scales around the Circle of Fourths.
  3. Don’t focus on a particular scale – play each scale in order.
  4. Play the scale until you get it and then go on – don’t try to practice it over and over.
  5. Increase metronome tempo gradually over the course of the marking period
  6. Always practice with a metronome