A Pelog Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
A Pelog Scale — Notes and Intervals
The A Pelog scale is the primary modal system of Indonesian Gamelan music. On Piano, its notes are A, Bb, C, E, F. Unlike Western scales, it uses intervals that create a unique, shimmering harmonic world that feels ancient and deeply spiritual. Commonly used in Gamelan, World, Ambient, Experimental. Notable players include Steve Reich, Debussy, Lou Harrison. Use over drones and ostinato patterns. Gamelan music is built on interlocking melodic patterns rather than chord progressions.
Notes: A, Bb, C, E, F
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3m, 5P, 6m
Degrees: 1 b2 b3 4 b5
Formula: H-W-4-H-4
Number of notes: 5
How to Play A Pelog on Piano
On piano, the A Pelog scale uses 1 black key. 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 Pelog scale contains 1 flat (Bb). 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 A Pelog 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.
This scale works well over simple power chord progressions or a 12-bar blues in A. Try a A5 - E5 - F5 progression.
Piano Tips
On piano, practice the A Pelog scale hands together in contrary motion (one hand ascending, the other descending). This builds independence and strengthens your awareness of the scale's symmetry.
The A Pelog scale contains 5 notes (A, Bb, C, E, F). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.