The pentatonic scale in Western music

The pentatonic scale in Western music is a five-note scale that provides a versatile and harmonious foundation for melody and improvisation. Unlike the more common seven-note scales, it omits certain notes, creating a sound that is both stable and open-ended. This scale is widely used across genres such as folk, blues, and rock because of its pleasant sound and flexibility. Its simple structure allows musicians to easily create expressive melodies and improvisations without dissonance, making it a fundamental building block for both beginner and experienced musicians.