The F Major Pentatonic Scale
Maybe it’s the sunshine or the birdsong, but there’s something ineffable about springtime compelling me to reach for the major pentatonic scale whenever it’s time to rock my guitar. While it’s cousin—the minor pentatonic scale—sounds dark and angsty, the sound of the major pentatonic scale is the stuff of springtime: sweet, bright, and open
The F Major Pentatonic Scale Across the High E-String
The major pentatonic scale is constructed using the following scale formula:
W W W+H W W+H
On the guitar, a whole step is a two-fret difference while a half-step is a one-fret distance. To construct an F Major Pentatonic Scale, locate the root note (F) on the high E-String (fret #1). Once you have your finger on the starting note, apply the scale formula as follows:
You will learn the major pentatonic scale faster and remember it longer if you recite the scale formula as you play it. In fact, I suggest reciting scale formulas whenever you learn any new scale. That being said, it helps if you say “starting note” as you play the first note before proceeding with the scale formula.
“Sunny Days” Melody
Now that you have the F Major Pentatonic Scale in your ears and under your fingers, let’s learn the melody to “Sunny Days.” This song is featured in the Rock Dojo Student Workbook, available for purchase this spring.
Finally, check out The Allman Brothers Band rocking the major pentatonic scale as they perform their springtime classic, “Blue Sky.”
At the Rock Dojo, we believe every kid has the potential to make great music. Call us today at (503) 484-6417 to book private lessons or group classes guitar lessons for kids in Portland, OR. You can also host a group guitar class at your home this summer! If you want to support the Rock Dojo, consider purchasing a Rock Dojo T-Shirt.
