How to Play the Minor Pentatonic Scale for Jazz Guitar Solos

After mastering the basic major scales, it is time to move onto some more challenging lessons. The pentatonic scale is a great one to learn for soloing. It can be used in jazz, blues or rock and roll music. Use the tips below to play a minor pentatonic scale.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Know that pentatonic means 5 notes in a scale. This means that there are 2 fewer notes than in most major scales. This helps you to tell the difference between a major and minor scale.

2. Subtract 2 notes from a diatonic scale for a pentatonic scale. Diatonic scales normally have 7 notes. The notes subtracted are usually the second and the sixth notes in the scale.

3. Try an A minor pentatonic scale. Begin by playing an A on the fifth fret of the low E string. Keep your index finger on the fifth fret of each string; it does not move for the entire scale.

4. Continue on the scale with a D note on the fifth fret of the A string, a G on the fifth fret of the D string, a C on the fifth fret of the G string, an E on the fifth fret of the B string, and finish with an A on the fifth fret of the high E string.

5. Memorize the finger patterning and practice this scale often. It is the most important scale for soloing or playing lead guitar. Soon you will be ready to play like Jimi Hendrix or Jimmy Page.