How to Play the Mixolydian Pentatonic Scale on the Guitar

The Mixolydian Pentatonic scale is a five-note scale resembling the major scale of western music, with a few alterations. The most important diversion if the flattened seventh degree. This scale omits the second and sixth degrees of the traditional major scale.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Begin by placing your second (middle) finger on the fifth fret of the sixth string. This is the root of the Mixolydian Pentatonic scale.

2. Continue by using your first (forefinger) finger to hold down the fourth fret of the fifth string. This is the note C sharp, the second degree of the Mixolydian Pentatonic scale.

3. Play the fifth fret of the fifth string with your second finger. This is a D. D is the third degree of the scale.

4. Use your fourth (pinky) finger to play the seventh fret of the fifth string. This is E, the fourth degree of the Mixolydian Pentatonic scale.

5. Use your second finger to play the fifth fret of the fourth string. This is a G. G is the fifth degree of the scale.

6. Using your fourth finger, hold down the seventh fret of the fourth string. This is the note A, played one octave above the root note you played in step one.

7. Play steps six through one in reverse order. Once you have returned to the beginning root note, the scale is complete.

Tips & Warnings

• Repeat the scale up and down repeatedly to give your fingers a good exercise. Use a metronome for an even better finger workout.