B Prometheus Neapolitan Cavaquinho Scale
Cavaquinho scale — fretboard diagram
B Prometheus Neapolitan Scale — Notes and Intervals
The B Prometheus Neapolitan scale is a variation of Scriabin's mystic scale that adds a dark, flattened second degree. On Cavaquinho, it contains the notes B, C, D#, F, G#, A. It combines the otherworldly sound of the Prometheus scale with an extra layer of exotic tension. Commonly used in Contemporary Classical, Experimental, Avant-Garde. Notable players include Alexander Scriabin. Use in atonal or free composition contexts. A specialized tool for experimental music that pushes beyond standard harmony.
Notes: B, C, D#, F, G#, A
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3M, 4A, 6M, 7m
Degrees: 1 b2 3 #4 5 b6
Formula: H-WH-W-WH-H-W
Number of notes: 6
How to Play B Prometheus Neapolitan on Cavaquinho
Begin by locating B on your instrument and play through the 6 notes of the Prometheus Neapolitan scale slowly, ensuring each note rings clearly before increasing speed.
The B Prometheus Neapolitan scale contains 2 sharps (D#, G#). This scale does not follow a traditional major or minor key signature, so reading from sheet music may require accidentals.
Practice Routine
Practice the B Prometheus Neapolitan 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 B to let the characteristic intervals of the Prometheus Neapolitan scale come through clearly.
Cavaquinho Tips
Practice the B Prometheus Neapolitan scale slowly and evenly on your instrument, focusing on tone quality for each of the 6 notes before building speed.
The B Prometheus Neapolitan scale contains 6 notes (B, C, D#, F, G#, A). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Cavaquinho with different tunings and fret ranges.
CAGED Positions & Patterns for B Prometheus Neapolitan
The B Prometheus Neapolitan 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.
Explore B Prometheus Neapolitan Further
- Browse chord progressions
- B Prometheus Neapolitan on Guitar
- B Prometheus Neapolitan on Ukulele
- B Prometheus Neapolitan on Bass
- B Prometheus Neapolitan on Piano