C Neapolitan Major Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
C Neapolitan Major Scale — Notes and Intervals
The C Neapolitan Major scale is a sophisticated and bright variation of the Neapolitan minor. On Piano, the notes are C, Db, Eb, F, G, A, B. It provides a chromatic, Spanish feel that is often used in classical music to approach the home key with an elegant, unexpected twist. Commonly used in Classical, Opera, Film Scores. Notable players include Chopin, Verdi, Puccini. Use over bII-V-I cadences. The source of the Neapolitan sixth chord, one of classical music's most elegant chromatic devices.
Notes: C, Db, Eb, F, G, A, B
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3m, 4P, 5P, 6M, 7M
Degrees: 1 b2 b3 4 5 6 7
Formula: H-W-W-W-W-W-H
Number of notes: 7
How to Play C Neapolitan Major on Piano
On piano, the C Neapolitan Major scale uses 2 black keys. Start with your thumb on C and use the black keys as landmarks for consistent finger placement. Standard major or minor fingering patterns apply.
The C Neapolitan Major scale contains 2 flats (Db, Eb). Its relative minor is A minor, which shares the same notes.
Practice Routine
Practice the C Neapolitan Major scale by playing it ascending with one rhythmic feel (straight eighth notes) and descending with another (swing or triplets) at 80 BPM. This dual approach trains both technical accuracy and rhythmic versatility with the 7 notes of the scale.
Experiment with simple two-chord vamps rooted on C to let the characteristic intervals of the Neapolitan Major scale come through clearly.
Piano Tips
At the piano, try voicing the C Neapolitan Major scale in the left hand as blocked intervals (thirds or sixths) while the right hand plays the melody. This develops your harmonic ear and comping skills simultaneously.
The C Neapolitan Major scale contains 7 notes (C, Db, Eb, F, G, A, B). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.