scale
Fretboard diagram
A neapolitan major scale — chords and intervals
The harmonized A neapolitan major scale produces a sophisticated chord family where the flat second degree creates elegant chromatic approaches to the tonic. The chords from A neapolitan major are A minor, Bb augmented, C augmented, D major, E (1-3-♭5), F# diminished, G# (1-2-♭5). The Neapolitan chord (bII) is one of the most beautiful pre-dominant chords in classical music. It adds a Spanish chromatic flavor that elevates cadences from functional to sublime. Commonly used in Classical, Opera, Film Scores. Notable players include Chopin, Verdi, Puccini.
The A neapolitan major scale has the following degrees: 1 ♭2 ♭3 4 5 6 7.
Intervals: H-W-W-W-W-W-H.
Diatonic chords: A minor, Bb augmented, C augmented, D major, E (1-3-♭5), F# diminished, G# (1-2-♭5).
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | A minor |
| ii | Bb augmented |
| iii | C augmented |
| IV | D major |
| V | E (1-3-♭5) |
| vi | F# diminished |
| vii° | G# (1-2-♭5) |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (A minor) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (Bb augmented) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (C augmented) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (D major) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (E (1-3-♭5)) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (F# diminished) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (G# (1-2-♭5)) 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 neapolitan 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 neapolitan major scale on guitar.
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over bII-V-I cadences. The source of the Neapolitan sixth chord, one of classical music's most elegant chromatic devices.