LESSON SIXTEEN

The Note C on the A String

As you know, it is possible to play the same note in more than one octave. Here is a new C note played on the A string. It is played with the 2nd finger slightly lower (back towards B) from where you would place your finger for a C # note.

This C note is written in the third space of the staff.
Play this C note with your 2nd finger on the A string.
Now try this example which combines the new C note with other notes you know.

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Three Steps Forward

The Note G on the E String

This G note is written above the top line of the staff.
Play this G note with your 2nd finger on the E string.

Half Position

This G note is played on the E string, with the 2nd finger slightly lower (back towards F # ) from where you would place your finger for a G# note. When you move your hand back to play this note and the new C note you learned at the start of this lesson, the position of your hand is called half position. All the other notes you have learned are in first position.

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Three More Steps

Two Octave Scales

Now that you know the two new notes presented in this lesson, it is possible to play two octaves of the G major scale.

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The G Major Scale Over Two Octaves

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Lavender’s Blue

Once you are comfortable with the scale over two octaves, try the following piece. You previously learned this piece in the key of A major. This time it is played twice, using different octaves of the G major scale. Try doing this with other melodies you know.

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Londonderry Air

This traditional Irish ballad is presented here in the key of G major. It uses notes from both octaves of the G major scale and goes right up to a high B note on the E string. Take it slowly and aim for a warm, singing tone.