The backbone of Western music theory and emotional expression:

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Major Scales
Major scales are known for their bright, happy, and stable sound.

• Structure (Whole and Half Steps):
  W – W – H – W – W – W – H
  (W = whole step, H = half step)
  Example: C Major → C D E F G A B C
• Emotional Tone:
  Joyful, triumphant, peaceful
• Common Use:
  Pop, classical, folk, children’s music

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Minor Scales
Minor scales evoke a sad, mysterious, or introspective mood. There are three types:

1. Natural Minor

• Structure: W – H – W – W – H – W – W
• Example: A Minor → A B C D E F G A
• Tone: Somber, melancholic

1. Harmonic Minor

• Same as natural minor but with a raised 7th
• Example: A Harmonic Minor → A B C D E F G♯ A
• Tone: Dramatic, exotic (often used in classical and metal)

1. Melodic Minor

• Ascending: Raised 6th and 7th
• Descending: Same as natural minor
• Example: A Melodic Minor Ascending → A B C D E F♯ G♯ A
• Tone: Smooth, expressive

whole steps and half steps are the building blocks of scales, melodies, and chords. Here’s how they work visually and physically on the fretboard:

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Half Step (Semitone)

• Definition: The distance from one fret to the next adjacent fret.
• Example:
  If you play the 5th fret on the low E string (A note), then move to the 6th fret, you’ve moved a half step to A♯/B♭.
• Visual Cue:
  One fret = one half step.

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Whole Step (Whole Tone)

• Definition: The distance of two frets on the same string.
• Example:
  From the 5th fret (A), jump to the 7th fret (B). That’s a whole step.
• Visual Cue:
  Skip one fret between notes.

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Why It Matters

• Scales: Major and minor scales are built from patterns of whole and half steps.
• Chord Construction: Intervals between notes define chord types.
• Fretboard Navigation: Understanding steps helps you move fluidly across strings and frets.

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🪜 Quick Reference

Step Type	Fret Distance	Example (Low E String)
Half Step	1 fret	E (open) → F (1st fret)
Whole Step	2 frets	E (open) → F♯ (2nd fret)