G Six Tone Symmetric Mandolin Scale
Mandolin scale — fretboard diagram
G Six Tone Symmetric Scale — Notes and Intervals
The G Six Tone Symmetric scale is a mathematical abstraction that divides the octave into six equal parts. On Mandolin, its notes are G, Ab, B, C, D#, E. It lacks a tonic or a home note, making it perfect for modern composers who want to avoid traditional keys and explore total tonal suspension. Commonly used in Contemporary Classical, Experimental, Avant-Garde. Notable players include Bela Bartok, Olivier Messiaen. Use for atonal or polytonal composition. Not chord-specific — this is a tool for breaking free of traditional harmony.
Notes: G, Ab, B, C, D#, E
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3M, 4P, 5A, 6M
Degrees: 1 b2 3 4 #5 6
Formula: H-WH-H-WH-H-WH
Number of notes: 6
How to Play G Six Tone Symmetric on Mandolin
Begin by locating G on your instrument and play through the 6 notes of the Six Tone Symmetric scale slowly, ensuring each note rings clearly before increasing speed.
The G Six Tone Symmetric scale contains both sharps and flats (1 sharp, 1 flat), which is common in altered and exotic scales. This scale does not follow a traditional major or minor key signature, so reading from sheet music may require accidentals.
Practice Routine
Set a metronome to 80 BPM and play the G Six Tone Symmetric scale in groups of four notes, shifting the starting note each repetition. This builds muscle memory across the entire scale range. After a week, try improvising short 4-bar phrases using only these notes.
Experiment with simple two-chord vamps rooted on G to let the characteristic intervals of the Six Tone Symmetric scale come through clearly.
Mandolin Tips
Practice the G Six Tone Symmetric scale slowly and evenly on your instrument, focusing on tone quality for each of the 6 notes before building speed.
The G Six Tone Symmetric scale contains 6 notes (G, Ab, B, C, D#, E). Use the interactive fretboard above to explore this scale on Mandolin with different tunings and fret ranges.
CAGED Positions & Patterns for G Six Tone Symmetric
The G Six Tone Symmetric 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 G Six Tone Symmetric Further
- Browse chord progressions
- G Six Tone Symmetric on Guitar
- G Six Tone Symmetric on Ukulele
- G Six Tone Symmetric on Bass
- G Six Tone Symmetric on Piano