G Mixolydian Pentatonic Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
G Mixolydian Pentatonic Scale — Notes and Intervals
The G Mixolydian Pentatonic scale is a dominant-flavored five-note scale that emphasizes the relaxed, bluesy side of the Mixolydian mode. On Piano, the notes are G, B, C, D, F. It is an excellent choice for soloing over dominant chords when you want to maintain the simplicity and flow of a pentatonic structure. Commonly used in Blues, Rock, Country, Funk. Notable players include Jimi Hendrix, Dickey Betts, Derek Trucks. Use over dominant 7th chords (7, 9, 13). Simpler than full Mixolydian but captures the essential dominant color.
Notes: G, B, C, D, F
Intervals: 1P, 3M, 4P, 5P, 7m
Degrees: 1 2 3 4 b5
Formula: 4-H-W-WH-W
Number of notes: 5
Also known as: indian
How to Play G Mixolydian Pentatonic on Piano
On piano, the G Mixolydian Pentatonic scale uses 0 black keys. Playing entirely on white keys, this is one of the most physically comfortable scales to learn. Use the standard 1-2-3-1-2-3-4-5 fingering for the right hand.
The G Mixolydian Pentatonic scale uses no sharps or flats, consisting entirely of natural notes. This scale does not follow a traditional major or minor key signature, so reading from sheet music may require accidentals.
Practice Routine
Begin by playing the G Mixolydian Pentatonic scale ascending and descending at 80 BPM using a metronome, one note per beat. Once comfortable, practice in thirds (G-C, B-D) to build intervallic familiarity. Spend 5 minutes daily on this pattern before increasing tempo by 10 BPM.
This scale works well over simple power chord progressions or a 12-bar blues in G. Try a G5 - D5 - F5 progression.
Piano Tips
On piano, practice the G Mixolydian Pentatonic scale hands together in contrary motion (one hand ascending, the other descending). This builds independence and strengthens your awareness of the scale's symmetry.
The G Mixolydian Pentatonic scale contains 5 notes (G, B, C, D, F). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.