C phrygian dominant scale diatonic chords
C phrygian dominant scale seventh chords
scale
Fretboard diagram
C phrygian dominant scale — chords and intervals
The harmonized C phrygian dominant scale generates the definitive chord family of Flamenco, Klezmer, and Middle Eastern music, combining a major tonic with the dark bII chord. The chords from C phrygian dominant are C major, Db major, E diminished, F minor, G diminished, Ab augmented, Bb minor. The I-bII oscillation is the most iconic progression in Spanish music. The chord family includes both major and minor colors, allowing for passionate, dramatic songwriting that shifts between light and shadow. Commonly used in Flamenco, Metal, Middle Eastern, Klezmer, Film Scores. Notable players include Marty Friedman, Paco de Lucia, Ritchie Blackmore, Al Di Meola.
The C phrygian dominant scale has the following degrees: 1 ♭2 3 4 5 ♭6 ♭7.
Intervals: H-3H-H-W-H-W-W.
Diatonic chords: C major, Db major, E diminished, F minor, G diminished, Ab augmented, Bb minor.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | C major |
| ii | Db major |
| iii | E diminished |
| IV | F minor |
| V | G diminished |
| vi | Ab augmented |
| vii° | Bb minor |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (C major) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (Db major) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (E diminished) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (F minor) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (G diminished) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (Ab augmented) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (Bb 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 phrygian dominant 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 phrygian dominant scale on guitar.
phrygian dominant is the 5th mode of the Harmonic Minor scale. View C Harmonic minor scale
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over dominant chords in flamenco/metal contexts, especially V7 in harmonic minor. The go-to for 'Spanish' or 'Arabic' sounding lines.