Scale guide
G major pentatonic · Five notes for groove
In one sentence: G-A-B-D-E is a direct map for creating riffs and melodic answers.
Every scale tone is on a white key. The numbers show the finger used by each hand while ascending one octave.
The five-note map
The formula is 1-2-3-5-6. It comes from G major and leaves out C, degree 4, and F#, degree 7.
G major contains F#, but this pentatonic leaves it out. The route stays on white keys.
Distances: 2-2-3-2-3 semitones back to G.
How to play it
Right hand: up 1-2-3-1-2-3; down 3-2-1-3-2-1. Two octaves: 1-2-3-1-2-3-1-2-3-1-2 up; 3-2-1-3-2-1-3-2-1-3-2 down.
Left hand: up 5-4-3-2-1-3; down 1-2-3-4-1-2. Two octaves: 5-4-3-2-1-3-2-1-3-2-1 up; 1-2-3-4-1-2-3-4-1-2-3 down.
Prepare the change before B-D and keep the hand relaxed over the note group.
Turn it into music
Repeat the riff twice; change the answer on the third pass.
Try the map over G-C-D. Repeat a few notes with a clear pulse: rhythm makes the riff recognisable.
What you are learning
- The major pentatonic keeps 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6.
- G major pentatonic shares notes with E minor pentatonic; the chord and landing point change the center.
- Repeating a rhythmic cell creates identity; varying its ending keeps it alive.
Common mistakes
- Adding C or F# by habit: they are the omitted degrees.
- Rushing at B-D: prepare the thumb.
- Confusing a riff with a scale run: repeat a two- or three-note cell.
- Never closing: end some answers on G.
Quick check
- I can find G-A-B-D-E
- I can play one octave with each hand
- I know degrees 4 and 7 are missing
- I can repeat a riff and vary its answer
- I hear G as the landing point
Keep this: a strong riff grows from a few notes and one clear rhythmic decision.