Piano Scales

How to Use Piano Scales

1. Choose a root note and scale type from the selectors.
2. Scale notes are highlighted on the keyboard — root in green, other tones in blue.
3. Fingering numbers (1-5) are shown on each key: 1=thumb, 2=index, 3=middle, 4=ring, 5=pinky.
4. Switch between Right Hand and Left Hand to see the correct fingering for each.
5. Click any highlighted key to hear the note, or press Play Scale to hear the full ascending and descending scale.
6. Set 1 or 2 octaves to control how much of the scale is shown.

Piano Fingering Guide

Correct fingering is essential for playing scales smoothly. Each finger is numbered: 1 = thumb, 2 = index, 3 = middle, 4 = ring, 5 = pinky. The thumb passes under the hand to reach the next position, and fingers cross over the thumb going back down.

The standard major scale fingering for the right hand is 1-2-3-1-2-3-4-5 (ascending) with the thumb tucking under after finger 3. For the left hand, it's 5-4-3-2-1-3-2-1 (ascending). Some keys with many black notes use different fingerings — this tool shows the correct fingering for every scale and key.