A# Six Tone Symmetric Bass Scale
Bass scale — fretboard diagram
A# Six Tone Symmetric Scale — Notes and Intervals
The A# Six Tone Symmetric scale is a mathematical abstraction that divides the octave into six equal parts. On Bass, its notes are A#, B, D, D#, E##, G. It lacks a tonic or a home note, making it perfect for modern composers who want to avoid traditional keys and explore total tonal suspension. Commonly used in Contemporary Classical, Experimental, Avant-Garde. Notable players include Bela Bartok, Olivier Messiaen. Use for atonal or polytonal composition. Not chord-specific — this is a tool for breaking free of traditional harmony.
Notes: A#, B, D, D#, E##, G
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3M, 4P, 5A, 6M
Degrees: 1 b2 3 4 #5 6
Formula: H-WH-H-WH-H-WH
Number of notes: 6
How to Play A# Six Tone Symmetric on Bass
On bass, locate A# on the A string at fret 1. Use a one-finger-per-fret approach starting from the root and span two to three strings. Keep your fretting hand relaxed and practice shifting between positions cleanly.
The A# Six Tone Symmetric scale contains 3 sharps (A#, D#, E##). This scale does not follow a traditional major or minor key signature, so reading from sheet music may require accidentals.
Practice Routine
Practice the A# Six Tone Symmetric scale by playing it ascending with one rhythmic feel (straight eighth notes) and descending with another (swing or triplets) at 80 BPM. This dual approach trains both technical accuracy and rhythmic versatility with the 6 notes of the scale.
Experiment with simple two-chord vamps rooted on A# to let the characteristic intervals of the Six Tone Symmetric scale come through clearly.
Bass Tips
Practice the A# Six Tone Symmetric scale on bass using only your index and ring fingers for a two-finger-per-string approach, then switch to one-finger-per-fret. Both techniques are essential for different musical situations.
The A# Six Tone Symmetric scale contains 6 notes (A#, B, D, D#, E##, G). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Bass with different tunings and fret ranges.
CAGED Positions & Patterns for A# Six Tone Symmetric
The A# Six Tone Symmetric 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 6-note pentatonic scale, 2-notes-per-string patterns are the most ergonomic way to traverse the fretboard. Use the pattern selector above to isolate each position.