E Whole Tone Mandolin Scale
Mandolin scale — fretboard diagram
E Whole Tone Scale — Notes and Intervals
The E Whole Tone scale, also known as Messiaen's Mode of Limited Transposition #1, is a perfectly symmetrical scale that lacks a tonal center, creating a sense of weightlessness and blur. On Mandolin, it contains the notes E, F#, G#, A#, C, D. It divides the octave into six equal whole steps, meaning only two unique whole tone scales exist. Popularized by Claude Debussy and used extensively in film scores, it evokes impressionistic, dreamlike atmospheres where no single note feels like home. Use it over augmented triads and 7#5 chords for a floating, surreal effect. Commonly used in Impressionist, Film Scores, Jazz, Ambient, Experimental. Notable players include Claude Debussy, Thelonious Monk, Wayne Shorter, Joe Satriani. Use over augmented triads, 7#5 chords. Perfect for dream sequences, transitions, and any moment where tonality should dissolve.
Notes: E, F#, G#, A#, C, D
Intervals: 1P, 2M, 3M, 4A, 5A, 6A
Degrees: 1 2 3 #4 #5 #6
Formula: W-W-W-W-W-W
Number of notes: 6
Also known as: messiaen's mode #1
How to Play E Whole Tone on Mandolin
Begin by locating E on your instrument and play through the 6 notes of the Whole Tone scale slowly, ensuring each note rings clearly before increasing speed.
The E Whole Tone scale contains 3 sharps (F#, G#, A#). This scale does not follow a traditional major or minor key signature, so reading from sheet music may require accidentals.
Practice Routine
Practice the E Whole Tone scale by playing it ascending with one rhythmic feel (straight eighth notes) and descending with another (swing or triplets) at 80 BPM. This dual approach trains both technical accuracy and rhythmic versatility with the 6 notes of the scale.
Experiment with simple two-chord vamps rooted on E to let the characteristic intervals of the Whole Tone scale come through clearly.
Mandolin Tips
Practice the E Whole Tone scale slowly and evenly on your instrument, focusing on tone quality for each of the 6 notes before building speed.
The E Whole Tone scale contains 6 notes (E, F#, G#, A#, C, D). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Mandolin with different tunings and fret ranges.
CAGED Positions & Patterns for E Whole Tone
The E Whole Tone scale can be played in 5 CAGED positions across the fretboard, each based on an open chord shape (C, A, G, E, D). As a 6-note pentatonic scale, 2-notes-per-string patterns are the most ergonomic way to traverse the fretboard. Use the pattern selector above to isolate each position.
Explore E Whole Tone Further
- Browse chord progressions
- E Whole Tone on Guitar
- E Whole Tone on Ukulele
- E Whole Tone on Bass
- E Whole Tone on Piano