Playing Major Pentatonic Scales

A major pentatonic scale consists of five notes (1 2 3 5 6) which are separated from each other by the following intervals: 1-1-1½-1-1½ (Ex. in C: C-D-E-G-A). It can be transposed into all other keys with the root as point of reference. Major pentatonic scales are the basic tool for soloing and improvising on chord changes in a major key and are therefore indispensable. In consequence of the absence of the fourth and seventh degrees, major pentatonic scales can be employed without restraint. This is why it is ubiquitously present in most musical styles. This course gives you the opportunity first to take a look at the major pentatonic scales on video; then to study them with three practical exercises by first playing three-note then four-note groups and combining them in different ways, all the while referring to the corresponding recordings; and lastly to play them along to backing tracks by means of seven licks.