Keith Snell’s Scale Skills – Level 3 increases technical demands by introducing two-octave scales, more keys, and fuller broken-chord patterns.
It is the level where students begin to work with extended range and more systematic use of major + minor sets.
1. Major Scales (2 octaves, hands separate)
Commonly included keys:
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C major, G major, D major, A major, E major
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sometimes F major or B♭ major depending on the edition
Main goals:
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maintaining consistent fingering across two octaves
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smooth thumb-under motion in longer runs
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even sound from bottom to top
2. Minor Scales (2 octaves)
Usually includes:
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A minor, E minor, D minor (natural + harmonic forms)
Students repeat the same pattern over two octaves, reinforcing:
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key signatures
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fingering consistency
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recognition of the raised 7th in harmonic minor
3. Primary Triads (I–IV–V7)
Triads in the same keys as the scales:
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blocked triads
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I–IV–V7–I progressions
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hands separate (the series rarely requires hands together at this stage)
4. Cadences
Short harmonic patterns for each key, slightly more complete than in Level 2:
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I–IV–I
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I–V7–I
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IV–I or V–I for ear training reinforcement
5. Broken Triads / Early Arpeggio Patterns
Broken-chord patterns become more extended:
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root–third–fifth–octave–fifth–third
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octave-spanning patterns preparing true arpeggios
This level is a transition stage before full arpeggios appear in higher levels.
