Forum - Banjo Ben Clark

Using the Pentatonic scale for banjo

I was wondering this for banjo. If you used the pentatonic scale, would there be different chord shapes or is it just used for melody, which you would fit in between the chords? I know what the pentatonic scale is, but I don’t understand how it’s used. Or, maybe I’ve used it and didn’t know it.

I’m no expert, but I’ll give this a shot.

I believe a pentatonic scale is just a 5 note scale. There are several different version of the scale. Each one yields a different feel. For example, the minor pentatonic scale is great for blues.

If memory serves me, Katy’s lesson “New Moon Over My Shoulder” incorporates some pentatonic licks. Hopefully someone will correct me if I’m wrong. Might want to check it out.