B major pentatonic scale on guitar
The B major pentatonic scale has 5 notes: B, C♯, D♯, F♯ and G♯. Five notes from the major scale with the two “tense” notes (the 4th and 7th) left out. Almost nothing can clash, which makes it a favourite for sweet, singable melodies and country and pop solos.
Notes in B major pentatonic
- Formula
- 1 2 3 5 6
- Step pattern
- W – W – W+H – W – W+H
- Notes
- 5
Tap a note to hear it.
B major pentatonic across the neck
Every B major pentatonic note on the first 12 frets in standard tuning. Filled dots are the root, B. A good place to start: B on the low E string is at fret 7, so play the notes between frets 6 and 10 first, then move up the neck.
Intervals
| Degree | Note | Interval from B |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | B | Root |
| 2 | C♯ | Major 2nd |
| 3 | D♯ | Major 3rd |
| 5 | F♯ | Perfect 5th |
| 6 | G♯ | Major 6th |
Chords to play B major pentatonic over
The B major pentatonic scale fits the main chords of the B major key:
Related scales
- It uses exactly the same five notes as G♯ minor pentatonic, so one shape covers both.
- Add the 4th and 7th back and you have the full B major scale.
Questions
What notes are in the B major pentatonic scale?
B, C♯, D♯, F♯, G♯. Its formula is 1 2 3 5 6.
Where do I start the B major pentatonic scale on guitar?
B on the low E string is at fret 7, so play the notes between frets 6 and 10 first. The fretboard map on this page shows every B major pentatonic note on the first 12 frets.
What scales are related to B major pentatonic?
It uses exactly the same five notes as G♯ minor pentatonic, so one shape covers both.
More scales
Major pentatonic in every key
Other scales from B