The Major Pentatonic Scale
In Country music, it is common to use the Major Pentatonic scale instead of the major scale to create melodies and patterns. This scale is similar to the major scale but does not contain the degrees 4 and 7. The major pentatonic scale contains only five notes. In the key of C these notes are C, D, E, G and A.
The following examples demonstrate a common melodic pattern created from the major pentatonic scale, first in one octave and then over two octaves. Notice the use of a harmony note in this pattern. This is another common characteristic of Country piano playing.
An interesting variation on the major pentatonic scale can be created by adding the flattened third and flattened sixth degrees. This scale may sound strange at first, but is great for creating melodies.
