How to Play a C Yo Scale on the Guitar

The Yo scale is a Japanese pentatonic scale. A pentatonic scale is one that uses 5 instead of the traditional 7 notes common in western scales. The scale has a very open sound and wistful sound. Try using it next time you solo or compose to take your music in a new direction.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Guitar

1. Play the third fret of the fifth string (A string) with your middle finger. This is the root note of the scale.

2. Use your pinky to play the fifth fret of the fifth string. This is the note D, the second degree of the C Yo scale.

3. Play the third fret of the fourth string (D string) with your middle finger. This is the note F, the third degree of the C Yo scale.

4. Use your pinky to play the fifth fret of the fourth string. This is the note G, the second degree of the C Yo scale.

5. Play the second fret of the third string (G string) with your forefinger. This is the note A, the final note of the scale.

6. Play the scale in reverse. Play Steps 5 through 1 in reverse order to complete the scale.