Interactive piano keyboard showing C Major Pentatonic scale degrees. Click highlighted keys to play.
The C major pentatonic (C, D, E, G, A) omits F and B to eliminate all half-step dissonance, producing a pure, open sound. It is a natural fit for folk melodies, country lead guitar, and gospel music. "Amazing Grace" is one of the most famous melodies built entirely from C major pentatonic notes.
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 C Major Pentatonic are: C, Dm, Em, Gm, Am. These are the chords built naturally from each degree of the scale.
What is the Major Pentatonic?
The C major pentatonic (C, D, E, G, A) omits F and B to eliminate all half-step dissonance, producing a pure, open sound. It is a natural fit for folk melodies, country lead guitar, and gospel music. "Amazing Grace" is one of the most famous melodies built entirely from C major pentatonic notes.
What notes are in the C Major Pentatonic?
The C Major Pentatonic contains the notes: C, D, E, G, A. This is a 5-note scale starting from C.
How many chords does the C Major Pentatonic have?
The C Major Pentatonic produces 5 diatonic chords, one built on each degree of the scale: C, Dm, Em, Gm, Am.
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
C is at the 12 o'clock position. Related keys: G (dominant), F (subdominant), A (relative minor), D (supertonic), Bb (subtonic).