What is Pentatonic Shifting in Jazz? | How to Practice
Pentatonic shifting in jazz is the technique of weaving in and out of different pentatonic scales to support the tonality (inside pentatonics) or create tension (outside pentatonics). It involves using major, minor, and dominant pentatonic scales. Inside pentatonics are found naturally within a major scale, while outside pentatonics have at least one note outside of the original diatonic chord scale. The practice involves shifting from one pentatonic to another, creating tension and resolution. It can be practiced by walking up pentatonic shapes in half steps, whole steps, and minor thirds.