scale
Fretboard diagram
D hungarian minor scale — chords and intervals
Harmonizing the D hungarian minor scale produces a dramatic chord family with two augmented seconds that create wide, exotic gaps in the harmonic fabric. The chords of D hungarian minor are D minor, E (1-3-♭5), F augmented, G# (1-2-♭5), A major, Bb major, C# minor. The chord family includes both augmented and diminished qualities that give it a powerful, mysterious character. These chords are essential for classical and melodic metal composition, providing the intense, Gypsy-flavored harmonic language. Commonly used in Classical, Metal, Klezmer, Film Scores, Gypsy Jazz. Notable players include Franz Liszt, Yngwie Malmsteen, Marty Friedman, Django Reinhardt.
The D hungarian minor scale has the following degrees: 1 2 ♭3 ♯4 5 ♭6 7.
Intervals: W-H-3H-H-H-3H-H.
Diatonic chords: D minor, E (1-3-♭5), F augmented, G# (1-2-♭5), A major, Bb major, C# minor.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | D minor |
| ii | E (1-3-♭5) |
| iii | F augmented |
| IV | G# (1-2-♭5) |
| V | A major |
| vi | Bb major |
| vii° | C# minor |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (D minor) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (E (1-3-♭5)) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (F augmented) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (G# (1-2-♭5)) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (A major) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (Bb major) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (C# 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 D hungarian minor 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 D hungarian minor scale on guitar.
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over m chords in gypsy jazz and neoclassical metal. Works beautifully over i-V progressions in minor keys.