Cello Intermediate 16: Two Octave Scales

In this video, we are looking at two octave scales on the cello. As you progress into more advanced repertoire, you will encounter long scalar passages all the time. The goal is to recognise the fingering patterns so you don't have to read every single note individually. In this lesson, we are going to look at four essential two octave scales and the specific technical challenges hidden inside each of them.

1. C major (the best starting point)

The two octave C major scale is the perfect place to start because you don't have to shift at all!

You already know the first octave well. For the second octave, you simply stay in 1st position. The only thing you have to remember is that on the D and A strings, you use your 2nd finger (instead of your 3rd finger) to play the F natural and C natural.

2. D major (the tricky descent)

Funnily enough, the top octave of the D major scale uses the exact same fingering pattern as the bottom octave of the C major scale. Finding these patterns makes learning new scales much easier.

• On the way up: the scale starts with a forward extension on the C and G strings, and then returns to a normal closed hand position for the top octave.
• On the way down: this is where it gets tricky. When descending from the D string to the G string, you have to move your hand one "Lego brick" (one semi tone) forward into half position so you are ready to reach back and play the C# before continuing.

3. F major (substitution shifts)

The F major scale introduces the B flat, and it is a fantastic excuse to practice your shifting. On the way up, you will play your 2nd finger on both the G and D strings.

When you reach the A string, you perform a backward extension to hit the B flat, and then you do a substitution shift up to 4th position to finish the scale. A substitution shift is where the finger that just played (the 1st finger) is replaced by a new finger (the 4th finger) as you slide. You practice the reverse (4-to-1) on the way back down.

4. G major (finding 4th position)

The first octave of G major uses the exact same fingering as C major. Just like F major, the top octave requires a substitution shift into 4th position.

This is a fabulous scale for cementing your physical awareness of 4th position. When you arrive at the top notes, ensure the side of your hand rests comfortably against the rim of the cello. This gives you the physical support needed to put strong, clear weight into the playing fingers.