Pentatonic Minor Scale

The Minor Pentatonic Pattern

The pentatonic minor scale uses the formula 1-b3-4-5-b7, producing five notes from the natural minor scale.

Starting from A: A-C-D-E-G-A.

A pentatonic minor is the relative minor of C pentatonic major — same notes, different root. This scale is the foundation of blues, rock, and most popular music soloing.

A Pentatonic Minor Scale

Study the A pentatonic minor scale ascending. This is one of the most commonly used scales in popular music — notice its bluesy, open quality.

Play A Pentatonic Minor

• Play the A pentatonic minor scale ascending and descending
• Compare to A natural minor — notice which two notes are removed
• Try bending into notes for a blues feel