Downloadable Lesson Supplementĭownload this free PDF containing the major scales in all 12 keys.Īll of the major scales contain 7 notes. For example, if we are playing a piece of music using just the notes from the C major scale, we are playing in the key of C. When we play a piece of music using the notes of a particular scale, we say that we are playing in that key. Scales provide the foundation for understanding harmony and learning the 12 major scales is a fundamental step in learning jazz piano.