A double harmonic major chords
All guitar chords for the A double harmonic major scale
Show scale diagram ↓A double harmonic major scale diatonic chords
A double harmonic major scale seventh chords
scale
Fretboard diagram
A double harmonic major scale — chords and intervals
The harmonized A double harmonic major scale yields the Byzantine chord family, featuring two augmented seconds that create an extreme exotic tension. The chords from A double harmonic major are A major, Bb major, C# minor, D minor, E unknown, F augmented, Bb unknown. The I-bII alternation is the signature movement, heard in surf rock and Middle Eastern music alike. The chord family includes unusual augmented and diminished colors that make progressions feel ancient and ritualistic. Commonly used in Middle Eastern, Surf Rock, Metal, Film Scores. Notable players include Dick Dale, Rainbow, Marty Friedman.
The A double harmonic major scale has the following degrees: 1 ♭2 3 4 5 ♭6 7.
Intervals: H-3H-H-W-H-3H-H.
Diatonic chords: A major, Bb major, C# minor, D minor, E unknown, F augmented, Bb unknown.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | A major |
| ii | Bb major |
| iii | C# minor |
| IV | D minor |
| V | E unknown |
| vi | F augmented |
| vii° | Bb unknown |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (A major) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (Bb major) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (C# minor) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (D minor) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (E unknown) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (F augmented) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (Bb unknown) is the diminished — the most tense, rarely used alone, usually leading to the I.
This page focuses on the harmonic content — the chords built from each degree of the A double harmonic major scale. For fretboard patterns and fingering guides, see the scale page.
Use the interactive harmonizer above to explore triads, seventh chords, and chord voicings for composing with the A double harmonic major scale on guitar.
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over major chords in Middle Eastern and surf rock contexts. The b2 and b6 add exotic color to an otherwise major framework.