Major Pentatonic Scale - Additional Notes
The major pentatonic scale contains the I, II, III, V, and VI notes of the major scale. As additional notes, the IV and VII can be added, to complete the major scale. Thus, for improvising against a major key progression, the major scale can be used, with emphasis on the major pentatonic notes.
Pattern One - Key of A
To produce the major scale sound (DO RE MI FA SO LA TI DO), start on the root note (as marked with a square around the dots).
Here is the complete fretboard diagram for the A major pentatonic scale with additional notes (i.e., the A major scale).
Notice that pattern two is the same major scale pattern that you were introduced to as an exercise in lesson 5.
As well as for improvising, the major scale is most useful for playing the melodies of songs in major keys. (For a detailed study of how to use the major scale, see Progressive Scales and Modes for Guitar by Peter Gelling).
