You looked at two different examples of the hexatonic scale: one with a second, and one with a sixth. What about combining the second and the sixth notes into the pentatonic, forming a seven-note pentatonic scale? We could call it a septatonic scale. Let's try it. (See FIGURE 5-14.)

The scale sounds good as a whole because the two notes interact well with the scale. If you like the sound of this scale, feel free to use it where you feel it's most effective. However, the truth is, there is no such thing as a septatonic scale. What you actually created by accident is a traditional scale or mode. With the exception of pentatonic and hexatonic, all scales in the Western music system are seven notes. The septatonic scale is really the Dorian scale, which is a derivative of the major scale, commonly referred to as a mode. If you enjoy the sound and possibilities of seven-note scales, you'll really enjoy learning about major and minor scales and modes in the upcoming chapters.

Building from a common ground is an effective way to learn new things. From the basic minor pentatonic you were able to add notes to make a new scale. Since all traditional scales are seven notes, and all pentatonic scales are five notes, you will have to add only two notes to any pentatonic scale to play traditional major and minor scales.