E major pentatonic scale on guitar
The E major pentatonic scale has 5 notes: E, F♯, G♯, B and C♯. 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 E 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.
E major pentatonic across the neck
Every E major pentatonic note on the first 12 frets in standard tuning. Filled dots are the root, E. A good place to start: E is the open low E string, so start in open position (frets 0 to 3), then move up the neck.
Intervals
| Degree | Note | Interval from E |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | E | Root |
| 2 | F♯ | Major 2nd |
| 3 | G♯ | Major 3rd |
| 5 | B | Perfect 5th |
| 6 | C♯ | Major 6th |
Chords to play E major pentatonic over
The E major pentatonic scale fits the main chords of the E major key:
Related scales
- It uses exactly the same five notes as C♯ minor pentatonic, so one shape covers both.
- Add the 4th and 7th back and you have the full E major scale.
Questions
What notes are in the E major pentatonic scale?
E, F♯, G♯, B, C♯. Its formula is 1 2 3 5 6.
Where do I start the E major pentatonic scale on guitar?
E is the open low E string, so start in open position (frets 0 to 3). The fretboard map on this page shows every E major pentatonic note on the first 12 frets.
What scales are related to E major pentatonic?
It uses exactly the same five notes as C♯ minor pentatonic, so one shape covers both.
More scales
Major pentatonic in every key
Other scales from E