Interactive piano keyboard showing Bb Major Pentatonic scale degrees. Click highlighted keys to play.
The B♭ major pentatonic (B♭, C, D, F, G) is a wind-player's favourite, with notes that sit naturally on saxophone, trumpet, and clarinet. Jazz, R&B, and pop musicians use it for smooth, melodic improvisation. It removes E♭ and A, the two notes most likely to create harmonic friction.
Omitting the 4th and 7th from the major scale removes all half-step dissonance, leaving only consonant intervals. The major 3rd and major 6th give it a sweet, open sound — nearly any note combination works, making it universally pleasing.
The diatonic chords in Bb Major Pentatonic are: Bb, Cm, Dm, Fm, Gm. These are the chords built naturally from each degree of the scale.
What is the Major Pentatonic?
The B♭ major pentatonic (B♭, C, D, F, G) is a wind-player's favourite, with notes that sit naturally on saxophone, trumpet, and clarinet. Jazz, R&B, and pop musicians use it for smooth, melodic improvisation. It removes E♭ and A, the two notes most likely to create harmonic friction.
What notes are in the Bb Major Pentatonic?
The Bb Major Pentatonic contains the notes: Bb, C, D, F, G. This is a 5-note scale starting from Bb.
How many chords does the Bb Major Pentatonic have?
The Bb Major Pentatonic produces 5 diatonic chords, one built on each degree of the scale: Bb, Cm, Dm, Fm, Gm.
What is the formula for the Major Pentatonic?
The Major Pentatonic follows the interval formula: W-W-W+H-W-W+H (W = whole step, H = half step).
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Position in circle of fifths
Bb is at the 10 o'clock position. Related keys: F (dominant), Eb (subdominant), G (relative minor), C (supertonic), Ab (subtonic).