C♯ Minor Pentatonic

The C♯ minor pentatonic scale (C♯-E-F♯-G♯-B) is a five-note scale built from the formula 1-♭3-4-5-♭7, widely used in rock, blues, and metal for its expressive and versatile character. Derived from the C♯ natural minor scale by removing the second and sixth degrees, this scale creates smooth melodic lines perfect for improvisation. It shares a relative relationship with the E major pentatonic scale, and adding chromatic passing tones transforms it into the C♯ blues scale.

Symbol: C♯m pent
Key: c sharp
Scale Type: minor pentatonic
Cardinality: pentatonic
Number of Notes: 6
Notes: C♯, E, F♯, G♯, B, C♯
Intervals from Root: m3, P4, P5, m7

Scale Structure

The C♯ minor pentatonic follows the formula 1-♭3-4-5-♭7, consisting of C♯ (root), E (minor third), F♯ (perfect fourth), G♯ (perfect fifth), and B (minor seventh). This five-note structure eliminates dissonant intervals, making it ideal for improvisation over minor chord progressions.

Applications in Modern Music

The C♯ minor pentatonic scale is popular in rock and blues guitar, offering expressive bending capabilities and emotional depth. It works beautifully over C♯m, C♯m7, and related minor chords, providing a foundation for countless iconic solos.

Relative Major Connection

The C♯ minor pentatonic shares all five notes with the E major pentatonic scale. Understanding this relationship allows seamless transitions between major and minor feels over the same progressions.