C messiaen's mode #6 scale diatonic chords
C messiaen's mode #6 scale seventh chords
scale
Fretboard diagram
C messiaen's mode #6 scale — chords and intervals
Harmonizing the C messiaen's mode #6 scale generates a radiant chord family associated with light and transcendence. The chords of C messiaen's mode #6 are C unknown, D diminished, F# unknown, F diminished, F# unknown, G# diminished, C unknown, B diminished. The uniform coloration transcends traditional keys, creating a brilliant, enlightened harmonic quality. These chords are effective for passages that need to feel luminous, pure, and beyond ordinary tonal experience. Commonly used in Contemporary Classical, Sacred Music, Experimental. Notable players include Olivier Messiaen.
The C messiaen's mode #6 scale has the following degrees: 1 2 3 4 ♯4 ♯5 ♯6 7.
Intervals: W-W-H-H-W-W-H-H.
Diatonic chords: C unknown, D diminished, F# unknown, F diminished, F# unknown, G# diminished, C unknown, B diminished.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | C unknown |
| ii | D diminished |
| iii | F# unknown |
| IV | F diminished |
| V | F# unknown |
| vi | G# diminished |
| vii° | C unknown |
| 8 | B diminished |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (C unknown) 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 (F# 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 (F# unknown) 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 (C 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 messiaen's mode #6 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 messiaen's mode #6 scale on guitar.
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use for creating a sense of radiant, enlightened calm. Best in sustained, atmospheric contexts.