Scale Turns
Playing a plain ascending or descending scale builds basic muscle memory, but Irish traditional tunes rarely move in a straight line. They turn, leap, and double back on themselves. Scale turns — where you reverse direction every few notes — simulate this and build a much higher level of finger coordination and mental agility.
Tab Notation
Use this notation as a reference while practising. Each row is a phrase; dots represent covered holes.
three-note turns ascending
four-note turns ascending
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Play D, E, D, E — a simple two-note turn. Repeat four times. Keep both notes clean and even.
- 2
Extend: D, E, F#, E, D — a three-note turn. Descend and then come back down one step.
- 3
Climb the scale with three-note turns: D-E-D, E-F#-E, F#-G-F#, G-A-G, A-B-A, B-C#-B, C#-D+-C#.
- 4
Try four-note turns: D-E-F#-E, E-F#-G-F#, F#-G-A-G, and so on up the scale.
- 5
Play the full scale with a reversal every fourth note: D-E-F#-G-F#-E-D, then E-F#-G-A-G-F#-E, continuing upward. This is demanding — slow down first.
Practice Tips
- If a turn creates a squeak or uneven note, isolate just that two-note combination and drill it slowly.
- The B-C# turn is notoriously tricky because it crosses from the left hand to the right — give it extra attention.
- Set your metronome to a tempo where you make zero mistakes. Only increase when error-free.
Ready to Apply This in a Real Tune?
Technique only sticks when you use it in music. Browse the tab library to find a tune that lets you practise what you have just learned.