Scales are tone groups or sets. They are typically used for
training and learning what tones work together for any given
situation. The tones in scales can be derived in a number of
ways; the most common method or starting point is the creation
of the Major scale [see this theory lesson]. The term scale
generally relates to playing a series of single pitches in
alphabetical order, ascending and descending. They can be played
in different alpha orders and can still be called scales.