scale
Fretboard diagram
E locrian 6 scale — chords and intervals
The harmonized E locrian 6 scale generates a rare chord family that adds a bright sixth to an otherwise dark Locrian foundation. The chords from E locrian 6 are E diminished, F augmented, G minor, A major, Bb major, C# diminished, D minor. The major sixth creates unexpected moments of light within the darkness, useful for experimental compositions that explore the boundary between consonance and dissonance. Commonly used in Experimental, Jazz, Avant-Garde. Notable players include Allan Holdsworth, Steve Coleman.
The E locrian 6 scale has the following degrees: 1 ♭2 ♭3 4 ♭5 6 ♭7.
Intervals: H-W-W-H-3H-H-W.
Diatonic chords: E diminished, F augmented, G minor, A major, Bb major, C# diminished, D minor.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | E diminished |
| ii | F augmented |
| iii | G minor |
| IV | A major |
| V | Bb major |
| vi | C# diminished |
| vii° | D minor |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (E diminished) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (F augmented) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (G minor) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (A major) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (Bb major) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (C# diminished) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (D 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 E locrian 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 E locrian 6 scale on guitar.
locrian 6 is the 2nd mode of the Harmonic Minor scale. View E Harmonic minor scale
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over diminished and half-diminished chords in experimental contexts. A modal exploration tool rather than a standard jazz choice.