A Harmonic Phrygian Piano Scale
Piano scale diagramAdvanced
A Harmonic Phrygian Scale — Notes and Intervals
The A Harmonic Phrygian scale grafts a raised seventh onto the Phrygian mode, producing an augmented second in the upper tetrachord that resonates with centuries of Moorish musical influence. On Piano, the notes are A, Bb, C, D, E, F, G#. It delivers strong cadential resolution through its leading tone while the flattened second preserves the ancient, tense quality prized in flamenco and Middle Eastern music. Commonly used in Flamenco, Middle Eastern, Metal, Film Scores. Notable players include Marty Friedman, Tomatito. Use over m(Maj7) and sus(b9) chords. The raised 7th provides a leading tone for strong cadential resolution while the b2 maintains the Phrygian tension. Effective over i-bII vamps.
Notes: A, Bb, C, D, E, F, G#
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3m, 4P, 5P, 6m, 7M
Degrees: 1 b2 b3 4 5 b6 7
Formula: H-W-W-W-H-WH-H
Number of notes: 7
Musical Character
Phrygian mode with a raised 7th degree, creating an augmented 2nd interval between the b6 and natural 7 in the upper tetrachord. This gap produces a distinctly Moorish atmosphere reminiscent of medieval Iberian music.
Genres & Notable Artists
Genres: Flamenco, Middle Eastern, Metal, Film Scores
Notable players: Marty Friedman, Tomatito
How to Use the A Harmonic Phrygian Scale
Use over m(Maj7) and sus(b9) chords. The raised 7th provides a leading tone for strong cadential resolution while the b2 maintains the Phrygian tension. Effective over i-bII vamps.
Origin & Background
A synthetic mode combining the dark foundation of the Phrygian mode with the leading tone of harmonic minor. The augmented 2nd in the upper half of the scale echoes the sound of Moorish music that permeated medieval Spain during centuries of cultural exchange.
How to Play A Harmonic Phrygian on Piano
On piano, the A Harmonic Phrygian scale uses 2 black keys. Start with your thumb on A and use the black keys as landmarks for consistent finger placement. Standard major or minor fingering patterns apply.
The A Harmonic Phrygian scale contains both sharps and flats (1 sharp, 1 flat), which is common in altered and exotic scales. Its relative major is C major, which shares the same key signature.
Practice Routine — Exercises for Playing
Set a metronome to 100 BPM and play the A Harmonic Phrygian 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 A to let the characteristic intervals of the Harmonic Phrygian scale come through clearly. This scale is especially effective in middle eastern contexts.
Piano Tips
On piano, practice the A Harmonic Phrygian scale hands together in contrary motion (one hand ascending, the other descending). This builds independence and strengthens your awareness of the scale's symmetry. Aim for a moorish quality in your phrasing to match the natural character of this scale.
Related Scales
The A Harmonic Phrygian scale contains 7 notes (A, Bb, C, D, E, F, G#). Use the interactive fretboard diagram above to explore each shape and pattern on Piano. Practice ascending and descending from the root note to learn the sound of this scale.