C bebop major scale diatonic chords
C bebop major scale seventh chords
scale
Fretboard diagram
C bebop major scale — chords and intervals
The harmonized C bebop major scale yields a major chord family with an added chromatic link between the fifth and sixth degrees, creating the flowing harmonic rhythm essential to swing. The chords from C bebop major are C major, D diminished, E unknown, F diminished, A minor seventh, G# diminished, A minor, B diminished. The extra chord produces a seamless descending chromatic voice in the inner parts. This is the harmonic basis for the classic four-to-the-bar comping style that defined the swing era. Commonly used in Jazz, Swing, Bebop. Notable players include Wes Montgomery, Barney Kessel, Kenny Burrell.
The C bebop major scale has the following degrees: 1 2 3 4 5 ♯5 6 7.
Intervals: W-W-H-W-H-H-W-H.
Diatonic chords: C major, D diminished, E unknown, F diminished, A minor seventh, G# diminished, A minor, B diminished.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | C major |
| ii | D diminished |
| iii | E unknown |
| IV | F diminished |
| V | A minor seventh |
| vi | G# diminished |
| vii° | A minor |
| 8 | B diminished |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (C major) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (D diminished) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (E unknown) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (F diminished) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (A minor seventh) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (G# diminished) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (A minor) 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 C bebop 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 C bebop major scale on guitar.
bebop major is the Major scale with added #5 chromatic passing tone. View C Major scale
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over Maj7, Maj6 chords. Essential for the smooth, flowing lines of traditional swing and bebop over major harmony.