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A major is a major key and scale built on the note A. It contains three sharps: F#, C# and G#. A major is one of the most commonly used keys in pop, rock and contemporary piano music.
What is the A major scale?
The A major scale follows the standard major scale pattern of whole and half steps:
Whole – Whole – Half – Whole – Whole – Whole – Half
The notes of the A major scale are:
A – B – C# – D – E – F# – G#
The three primary chords in A major are A (I), D (IV) and E (V). Its relative minor key is F# minor.
How is A major used in piano playing?
A major is widely used in pop, rock and many contemporary songs because it suits both singers and guitar players. For pianists, it is an excellent key for practicing scales, chords and common chord progressions.
When playing in A major, you need to become familiar with the three black keys C#, F# and G#. A common pop chord progression in this key is:
A – E – F#m – D