Piano scale

A Phrygian Mode

The A Phrygian Mode has 7 notes: A – B♭ – C – D – E – F – G.

A

C

D

E

F

G

A

B♭

Notes of the A Phrygian Mode

Degree	Notes	Intervals	Formula
1	A	Root	1
2	B♭	Minor 2nd	♭2
3	C	Minor 3rd	♭3
4	D	Perfect 4th	4
5	E	Perfect 5th	5
6	F	Minor 6th	♭6
7	G	Minor 7th	♭7

H – W – W – W – H – W – W

From the root to the octave the scale moves in this pattern: H – W – W – W – H – W – W.

W = whole step (2 semitones), H = half step (1 semitone), W+H = 3 semitones

Start on the 3rd degree of major — the distinctive ♭2 creates an instantly Spanish or flamenco sound. Also beloved in metal for its darkness.

Sound: Spanish & dark

Stack every other note of the scale on each degree to get its chords.

Emphasise the half step between the 1st and 2nd notes to get the flamenco and metal flavour. It works over a minor chord on the root.

Play the A Phrygian Mode with different sounds in the interactive builder.

If chords sound sour even when you play the right notes, the piano is probably out of tune. Our technicians tune pianos across Israel.