How to Play the Major Pentatonic IV Scale for Guitar

The major pentatonic IV scale can be easily learned by any guitarist. It does not at any point use the left-hand pinky, which is often the weakest finger, and the fingering is made up of three pairs of strings. The left-hand fingering for the sixth string is the same as the fifth, the fingering for the fourth is the same as the third, and the fingering for the second is the same as the first. This fingering pattern has made the major pentatonic IV scale a favorite soloing vehicle for some of the best rock and blues players in history.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Place your left-hand index finger on the tenth fret of the sixth string. Pluck the note with a pick or the fingers of your right hand.

2. Position your left-hand ring finger on the twelfth fret of the sixth string. Play the string.

3. Place your left-hand index finger on the tenth fret of the fifth string. Pluck the note.

4. Position your left-hand ring finger on the twelfth fret of the fifth string. Play the note with your right hand.

5. Place your left-hand index finger on the ninth fret of the fourth string. Pluck the string with your right hand.

6. Position your left-hand pinky on the twelfth fret of the fourth string. Play the note.

7. Place your left-hand index finger on the ninth fret of the third string. Pluck the string.

8. Position your left-hand pinky on the twelfth fret of the third string. Play the string with your right hand.

9. Place your left-hand index finger on the tenth fret of the second string. Pluck the note with your right hand.

10. Position your left-hand ring finger on the twelfth fret of the second string. Play the note.

11. Place your left-hand index finger on the tenth fret of the first string. Pluck the string.

12. Position your left-hand ring finger on the twelfth fret of the first string. Play the note with your right hand.

13. Play all twelve notes in a row to produce the G major pentatonic scale IV. Refer to the example if necessary.

14. Practice playing the major pentatonic scale IV in different keys along the neck. The third note of the scale is the root, which indicates the key. For example, playing this scale starting on the third fret of the sixth string produces a Bb major pentatonic IV scale, since the third note falls on the first fret of the fifth string (the note Bb).

Tips & Warnings

• Keeping the left-hand fingers close to the strings and curved will help you develop your speed and dexterity while you are learning to play the scale.

Resources

• How to Practice Guitar Scales
• Free Guitar Lessons