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Beginner Piano Lesson #3

Beginner Piano Lesson #3

Learning the C Major Scale & Simple Melody Playing

Review

Before starting, make sure you can:

  • Identify Middle C.
  • Play the notes C-D-E-F-G with your right hand.
  • Count steady quarter notes: 1-2-3-4.

The C Major Scale

The C Major Scale uses only the white keys:

C – D – E – F – G – A – B – C

Right-Hand Fingering

 
C = 1 (thumb)
D = 2
E = 3
F = 1 (thumb tucks under)
G = 2
A = 3
B = 4
C = 5
 

Practice slowly:

 
C D E F G A B C
C B A G F E D C
 

Rhythm Exercise

Play each note for one beat:

 
C  D  E  F
1  2  3  4

G  A  B  C
1  2  3  4
 

Use a slow, steady count.

Simple Melody: “Ode to Joy” (First Phrase)

Right Hand:

 
E E F G
G F E D
C C D E
E D D
 

Play slowly and count:

 
1 2 3 4
1 2 3 4
1 2 3 4
1 2
 

Ear Training

Listen and identify:

  • Does the note go higher or lower?
  • Play C then G.
  • Play G then C.
  • Notice the difference in pitch.

Practice Assignment (10–15 Minutes)

  1. C Major Scale up and down – 5 times.
  2. Rhythm exercise – 3 times.
  3. “Ode to Joy” phrase – 5 times.
  4. End by playing:
 
C - E - G - C
 

This creates a pleasant C Major sound.

Piano Tip

Keep your fingers gently curved, like you’re holding a small ball. Let your wrists stay relaxed and level with the keyboard.

Next Lesson (#4):
Playing with the left hand and your first two-hand exercise. 🎹