C chromatic scale diatonic chords
C chromatic scale seventh chords
scale
Fretboard diagram
C chromatic scale — chords and intervals
The harmonized C chromatic scale contains every possible chord in Western music, offering unlimited harmonic options. The chords from C chromatic are C unknown, Db unknown, D unknown, Eb unknown, E unknown, F unknown, Gb unknown, G unknown, Ab unknown, A unknown, Bb unknown, B unknown. Chromatic harmony means any chord can follow any other chord. This total freedom is used in twelve-tone composition and free jazz, where traditional progressions are replaced by color, texture, and intervallic relationships. Commonly used in Classical, Jazz, Metal, Experimental. Notable players include Franz Liszt, Charlie Parker, Yngwie Malmsteen.
The C chromatic scale has the following degrees: 1 ♭2 2 ♭3 3 4 ♭5 5 ♭6 6 ♭7 7.
Intervals: H-H-H-H-H-H-H-H-H-H-H-H.
Diatonic chords: C unknown, Db unknown, D unknown, Eb unknown, E unknown, F unknown, Gb unknown, G unknown, Ab unknown, A unknown, Bb unknown, B unknown.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | C unknown |
| ii | Db unknown |
| iii | D unknown |
| IV | Eb unknown |
| V | E unknown |
| vi | F unknown |
| vii° | Gb unknown |
| 8 | G unknown |
| 9 | Ab unknown |
| 10 | A unknown |
| 11 | Bb unknown |
| 12 | B unknown |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (C unknown) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (Db unknown) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (D unknown) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (Eb unknown) 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 unknown) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (Gb 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 C chromatic 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 chromatic scale on guitar.
How to Use This Scale
Context-dependent — works as a passing device over any harmony. Not a 'soloing' scale but a coloring tool. Great for chromatic approach notes.