C major pentatonic scale on guitar
The C major pentatonic scale has 5 notes: C, D, E, G and A. 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 C 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.
C major pentatonic across the neck
Every C major pentatonic note on the first 12 frets in standard tuning. Filled dots are the root, C. A good place to start: C on the A string is at fret 3, so play the notes between frets 2 and 6 first, then move up the neck.
Intervals
| Degree | Note | Interval from C |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | C | Root |
| 2 | D | Major 2nd |
| 3 | E | Major 3rd |
| 5 | G | Perfect 5th |
| 6 | A | Major 6th |
Chords to play C major pentatonic over
The C major pentatonic scale fits the main chords of the C major key:
Related scales
- It uses exactly the same five notes as A minor pentatonic, so one shape covers both.
- Add the 4th and 7th back and you have the full C major scale.
Questions
What notes are in the C major pentatonic scale?
C, D, E, G, A. Its formula is 1 2 3 5 6.
Where do I start the C major pentatonic scale on guitar?
C on the A string is at fret 3, so play the notes between frets 2 and 6 first. The fretboard map on this page shows every C major pentatonic note on the first 12 frets.
What scales are related to C major pentatonic?
It uses exactly the same five notes as A minor pentatonic, so one shape covers both.
More scales
Major pentatonic in every key
Other scales from C