Phrygian Dominant Scale

Phrygian with a MAJOR 3rd — the classic Spanish/flamenco and Middle-Eastern sound, and a metal favourite. The gap between the ♭2 and the major 3rd is the whole exotic flavour.

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Formula

10st
♭21st
34st
45st
57st
♭68st
♭710st

Notes in every key

Scale1♭2345♭6♭7
A PhrygianAA#C#DEFG
E PhrygianEFG#ABCD
C PhrygianCC#EFGG#A#
G PhrygianGG#BCDD#F
D PhrygianDD#F#GAA#C

How to use it

Phrygian dominant = the 5th mode of harmonic minor (also called "Freygish"). Play it over a dominant 7 chord for instant flamenco or "Middle-Eastern metal".

Where you hear it

Flamenco and Spanish guitar, Dick Dale (Misirlou), and exotic metal from Metallica (Wherever I May Roam intro feel) to modern djent.

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Phrygian Dominant scale — FAQ

What notes are in the Phrygian Dominant scale?

The Phrygian Dominant scale follows the formula 1 ♭2 3 4 5 ♭6 ♭7. For example, in the key of A it is A A# C# D E F G.

What is the Phrygian Dominant scale used for?

Phrygian with a MAJOR 3rd — the classic Spanish/flamenco and Middle-Eastern sound, and a metal favourite. The gap between the ♭2 and the major 3rd is the whole exotic flavour.

What songs use the Phrygian Dominant scale?

Flamenco and Spanish guitar, Dick Dale (Misirlou), and exotic metal from Metallica (Wherever I May Roam intro feel) to modern djent.

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