E Harmonic Phrygian Banjo (5-String) Scale
Banjo (5-String) scale — fretboard diagramAdvanced
E Harmonic Phrygian Scale — Notes and Intervals
The E Harmonic Phrygian scale grafts a raised seventh onto the Phrygian mode, producing an augmented second in the upper tetrachord that resonates with centuries of Moorish musical influence. On Banjo (5-String), the notes are E, F, G, A, B, C, D#. It delivers strong cadential resolution through its leading tone while the flattened second preserves the ancient, tense quality prized in flamenco and Middle Eastern music. Commonly used in Flamenco, Middle Eastern, Metal, Film Scores. Notable players include Marty Friedman, Tomatito. Use over m(Maj7) and sus(b9) chords. The raised 7th provides a leading tone for strong cadential resolution while the b2 maintains the Phrygian tension. Effective over i-bII vamps.
Notes: E, F, G, A, B, C, D#
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3m, 4P, 5P, 6m, 7M
Degrees: 1 b2 b3 4 5 b6 7
Formula: H-W-W-W-H-WH-H
Number of notes: 7
Musical Character
Phrygian mode with a raised 7th degree, creating an augmented 2nd interval between the b6 and natural 7 in the upper tetrachord. This gap produces a distinctly Moorish atmosphere reminiscent of medieval Iberian music.
Genres & Notable Artists
Genres: Flamenco, Middle Eastern, Metal, Film Scores
Notable players: Marty Friedman, Tomatito
How to Use the E Harmonic Phrygian Scale
Use over m(Maj7) and sus(b9) chords. The raised 7th provides a leading tone for strong cadential resolution while the b2 maintains the Phrygian tension. Effective over i-bII vamps.
Origin & Background
A synthetic mode combining the dark foundation of the Phrygian mode with the leading tone of harmonic minor. The augmented 2nd in the upper half of the scale echoes the sound of Moorish music that permeated medieval Spain during centuries of cultural exchange.
How to Play E Harmonic Phrygian on Banjo (5-String)
Begin by locating E on your instrument and play through the 7 notes of the Harmonic Phrygian scale slowly, ensuring each note rings clearly before increasing speed.
The E Harmonic Phrygian scale contains 1 sharp (D#). Its relative major is G major, which shares the same key signature.
Practice Routine — Exercises for Playing
Practice the E Harmonic Phrygian scale by playing it ascending with one rhythmic feel (straight eighth notes) and descending with another (swing or triplets) at 100 BPM. This dual approach trains both technical accuracy and rhythmic versatility with the 7 notes of the scale.
Experiment with simple two-chord vamps rooted on E to let the characteristic intervals of the Harmonic Phrygian scale come through clearly. This scale is especially effective in flamenco contexts.
Banjo (5-String) Tips
Practice the E Harmonic Phrygian scale slowly and evenly on your instrument, focusing on tone quality for each of the 7 notes before building speed. Aim for a moorish quality in your phrasing to match the natural character of this scale.
Related Scales
The E Harmonic Phrygian scale contains 7 notes (E, F, G, A, B, C, D#). Use the interactive fretboard diagram above to explore each shape and pattern on Banjo (5-String) with different tunings and fret ranges. Practice ascending and descending from the root note to learn the sound of this scale.
CAGED Positions & Patterns for E Harmonic Phrygian
The E Harmonic Phrygian scale can be played in 5 CAGED positions across the fretboard, each based on an open chord shape (C, A, G, E, D). As a 7-note scale, it also lends itself to 3-notes-per-string (3NPS) patterns that facilitate legato playing and diagonal shifting. Use the pattern selector above to isolate each position.
Explore E Harmonic Phrygian Further
- Browse chord progressions
- E Harmonic Phrygian on Guitar
- E Harmonic Phrygian on Ukulele
- E Harmonic Phrygian on Bass
- E Harmonic Phrygian on Piano