C minor scale (guitar)
The C minor scale shown across the whole guitar neck. Its notes areC – D – E♭ – F – G – A♭ – B♭ — the filled dots are the root. Free to print or download below.
How to play the C minor scale
- Find the root notes. The filled dots are the root note (C); the open dots are the other scale notes. Start and end on a root to hear the C minor sound.
- Play it across the neck. The diagram shows every C minor note from the open strings up to the 15th fret, so you can play the scale in any position.
- Use it to solo. Once the shape is under your fingers, improvise over backing chords in C, always resolving to a root note.
Notes in the C minor scale
The C minor scale is the natural minor scale, with its darker, more serious sound. Its notes are C – D – E♭ – F – G – A♭ – B♭.
C minor scale — frequently asked questions
What notes are in the C minor scale?
The C minor scale contains the notes C – D – E♭ – F – G – A♭ – B♭.
What is the C minor scale used for?
It is the natural minor scale, with its darker, more serious sound.
Is the C minor scale diagram free to print?
Yes — print it or download the PDF or PNG for free, with no account or sign-up.