A persian scale diatonic chords
A persian scale seventh chords
scale
Fretboard diagram
A persian scale — chords and intervals
Harmonizing the A persian scale produces a hypnotic chord family with dense semitones that create a winding, Middle Eastern harmonic tapestry. The chords of A persian are A unknown, Bb major, C# suspended second, D minor, Eb suspended fourth, F augmented, Bb unknown. The chord movements feel labyrinthine and ancient, with each progression evoking desert landscapes and ancient civilizations. These chords are essential for authentic Middle Eastern scoring and for adding mystical character to any genre. Commonly used in Middle Eastern, Film Scores, Metal, Ambient. Notable players include Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Buckethead.
The A persian scale has the following degrees: 1 ♭2 3 4 ♭5 ♭6 7.
Intervals: H-3H-H-H-W-3H-H.
Diatonic chords: A unknown, Bb major, C# suspended second, D minor, Eb suspended fourth, F augmented, Bb unknown.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | A unknown |
| ii | Bb major |
| iii | C# suspended second |
| IV | D minor |
| V | Eb suspended fourth |
| vi | F augmented |
| vii° | Bb unknown |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (A unknown) 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# suspended second) 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 (Eb suspended fourth) 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 persian 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 persian scale on guitar.
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over sustained root notes or drones. Works best in modal, non-functional harmony where the exotic intervals can breathe.