The G minor pentatonic is a five-note scale derived from the G minor scale. It’s a popular scale for guitar players and is used in many pop, rock, and blues songs.
Notes, Formula, and Intervals
The G minor pentatonic scale is a five-note scale with a distinctive, bluesy sound. Here’s a quick rundown of its key components:
- Notes in the scale: G, B♭, C, D, and F.
- Scale formula: 1 (Root) – 3m (Minor 3rd) – 4P (Perfect 4th) – 5P (Perfect 5th) – 7m (Minor 7th).
- Intervals: Perfect 1st, Minor 3rd, Perfect 4th, Perfect 5th, Minor 7th.
Understanding these elements will help you visualize and play the G minor pentatonic scale across the fretboard.
Scale Positions
The g minor pentatonic scale can be played in different positions across the fretboard. One way to learn these positions is through the CAGED system, which uses common chord shapes to map out scales and chords.
Here are five common shapes, or positions, for playing the g minor pentatonic scale:
- Shape 1 (3rd position)
- Shape 2 (5th position)
- Shape 3 (7th position)
- Shape 4 (10th position)
- Shape 5 (12th position)
Check out the diagrams for fingerings and note placement in each position.
Scales and chords that work well with G minor pentatonic
- Relative Major Scale: The relative major of G minor pentatonic is B♭ major pentatonic (B♭ – C – D – F – G).
- Related Chords: Gm, Bb, Cm7, Dm7, F5.
Summary
The G minor pentatonic scale is an essential tool for guitarists playing blues, rock, and other styles. Now that you know the scale, start practicing it in different positions and keys to unlock its full potential.