scale
Fretboard diagram
C# locrian major scale — chords and intervals
Harmonizing the C# locrian major scale yields a paradoxical chord family that sounds simultaneously familiar and alien. The chords of C# locrian major are C# (1-3-♭5), D# diminished, F (1-2-♭5), F# minor, G augmented, A augmented, B major. The major third against a Locrian base creates cognitive dissonance in the listener. These chords are used in experimental 20th-century compositions to explore the boundary between tonality and atonality. Commonly used in Experimental, Contemporary Classical, Avant-Garde. Notable players include Bela Bartok, Gyorgy Ligeti.
The C# locrian major scale has the following degrees: 1 2 3 4 ♭5 ♭6 ♭7.
Intervals: W-W-H-H-W-W-W.
Diatonic chords: C# (1-3-♭5), D# diminished, F (1-2-♭5), F# minor, G augmented, A augmented, B major.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | C# (1-3-♭5) |
| ii | D# diminished |
| iii | F (1-2-♭5) |
| IV | F# minor |
| V | G augmented |
| vi | A augmented |
| vii° | B major |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (C# (1-3-♭5)) 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 (1-2-♭5)) 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 augmented) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (A augmented) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (B major) 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# locrian 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# locrian major scale on guitar.
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use in experimental composition over polytonal or atonal passages. A tool for creating cognitive dissonance.