scale
Fretboard diagram
A enigmatic scale — chords and intervals
The harmonized A enigmatic scale produces a puzzling chord family that defies conventional harmonic expectations. The chords from A enigmatic are A augmented, Eb major, C# major, Eb (1-3-♭5), F (1-♭3-4), G (1-2-♭5), G# suspended second. The absence of standard fourth and fifth relationships means no traditional cadences are possible. These chords create a surreal, gliding harmonic feel that challenges the listener, perfect for musical puzzles and experimental storytelling. Commonly used in Classical, Experimental, Film Scores. Notable players include Giuseppe Verdi, Igor Stravinsky.
The A enigmatic scale has the following degrees: 1 ♭2 3 ♭5 ♭6 ♭7 7.
Intervals: H-3H-W-W-W-H-H.
Diatonic chords: A augmented, Eb major, C# major, Eb (1-3-♭5), F (1-♭3-4), G (1-2-♭5), G# suspended second.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | A augmented |
| ii | Eb major |
| iii | C# major |
| IV | Eb (1-3-♭5) |
| V | F (1-♭3-4) |
| vi | G (1-2-♭5) |
| vii° | G# suspended second |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (A augmented) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (Eb major) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (C# major) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (Eb (1-3-♭5)) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (F (1-♭3-4)) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (G (1-2-♭5)) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (G# suspended second) 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 enigmatic 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 enigmatic scale on guitar.
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Not chord-specific — this is a melodic scale for creating surreal, non-functional passages. Use over sustained pedal tones or atonal contexts.