How to Play the Major Pentatonic II Scale for Guitar

The major pentatonic scale II begins on the second note of the major pentatonic scale I, with the root falling on the fifth note of the scale. Since the pinky finger is used to play at least one note on every string, this scale can be used to develop both strength and dexterity in the left hand. Learning to play the major pentatonic scale II with proper technique and fingering will greatly improve your speed and accuracy.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Guitar

How to Play the Major Pentatonic Scale II for Guitar

1. Position the left-hand middle finger on the fifth fret of the sixth string. Pluck the string with a pick or right-hand fingers.

2. Place the left-hand pinky finger on the seventh fret of the sixth string. Play the note.

3. Position the left-hand middle finger on the fifth fret of the fifth string. Pluck the string.

4. Place the left-hand pinky finger on the seventh fret of the fifth string. Play the string with the right hand.

5. Place the left-hand middle finger on the fifth fret of the fourth string. Play the note with the right hand.

6. Position the left-hand pinky finger on the seventh fret of the fourth string. Pluck the string with the right hand.

7. Place the left-hand index finger on the fourth fret of the third string. Play the note.

8. Position the left-hand pinky finger on the seventh fret of the third string. Pluck the string.

9. Place the left-hand index finger on the fifth fret of the second string. Play the string with the right hand.

10. Position the left-hand pinky finger on the eighth fret of the second string. Pluck the string with the right hand.

11. Place the left-hand middle finger on the fifth fret of the first string. Play the note.

12. Position the left-hand pinky finger on the seventh fret of the first string. Pluck the string.

13. Play all 12 notes in a row to produce a G major pentatonic scale II. Refer to the given example if necessary.

14. Practice playing the major pentatonic scale II in different keys along the neck. The fifth note of the scale is the root, which indicates the key. For example, starting this scale on the seventh fret of the sixth string produces an A major pentatonic scale II, as the root falls on the seventh fret of the fourth string, A.

Tips & Warnings

• Curving the left-hand fingers, and keeping them close to the strings, will greatly increase your speed and accuracy when practicing this scale.

Resources

• Tips for Practicing Guitar Scales
• Guitar Player Lesson Page