How to Play the Major Pentatonic III Scale for Guitar

When first learning to play scales on the guitar, it is hard to determine which is the most practical and relatively easy scale to start with. The major pentatonic III scale is easy and can be used in numerous musical situations. Because of its playability and versatility, the major pentatonic III scale is a perfect choice for your first scale on the guitar.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Lay your left-hand index finger on the sixth string, seventh fret. Pluck the string with your right hand.

2. Place your left-hand pinky finger on the tenth fret of the sixth string. Play the string.

3. Position your left-hand index finger on the fifth string, seventh fret. Play the note.

4. Lay your left-hand pinky finger on the tenth fret of the fifth string. Play the string.

5. Place your left-hand index finger on the fourth string, seventh fret. Pluck the note.

6. Position your left-hand ring finger on the ninth fret of the fourth string. Play the note.

7. Lay your left-hand index finger on the third string, seventh fret. Play the string.

8. Position your left-hand ring finger on the ninth fret of the third string. Pluck the string.

9. Place your left-hand middle finger on the second string, eighth fret. Strike the string.

10. Lay your left-hand pinky finger on the tenth fret of the second string. Attack the string.

11. Position your left-hand index finger on the first string, seventh fret. Play the string.

12. Lay your left-hand pinky finger on the first string, tenth fret. Play the string.

13. Play all twelve notes in a row to produce the major pentatonic III scale for guitar.

Tips & Warnings

• Play the major pentatonic III scale in different keys along the neck of the guitar. The fourth note of the scale will tell you what key you are in as it is the root of the scale. For example, starting the scale on the fourth fret will produce an E major pentatonic III scale as the fourth note of the scale falls on the note E.
• Stop practicing if you find you are having any pain in the left hand. Take a short rest before returning to your instrument.

Resources

• Practice Guide for Scales on the Guitar