D major pentatonic scale on guitar
The D major pentatonic scale has 5 notes: D, E, F♯, A and B. 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 D 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.
D major pentatonic across the neck
Every D major pentatonic note on the first 12 frets in standard tuning. Filled dots are the root, D. A good place to start: D on the A string is at fret 5, so play the notes between frets 4 and 8 first, then move up the neck.
Intervals
| Degree | Note | Interval from D |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | D | Root |
| 2 | E | Major 2nd |
| 3 | F♯ | Major 3rd |
| 5 | A | Perfect 5th |
| 6 | B | Major 6th |
Chords to play D major pentatonic over
The D major pentatonic scale fits the main chords of the D major key:
Related scales
- It uses exactly the same five notes as B minor pentatonic, so one shape covers both.
- Add the 4th and 7th back and you have the full D major scale.
Questions
What notes are in the D major pentatonic scale?
D, E, F♯, A, B. Its formula is 1 2 3 5 6.
Where do I start the D major pentatonic scale on guitar?
D on the A string is at fret 5, so play the notes between frets 4 and 8 first. The fretboard map on this page shows every D major pentatonic note on the first 12 frets.
What scales are related to D major pentatonic?
It uses exactly the same five notes as B minor pentatonic, so one shape covers both.
More scales
Major pentatonic in every key
Other scales from D