A Prometheus Neapolitan Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
A Prometheus Neapolitan Scale — Notes and Intervals
The A Prometheus Neapolitan scale is a variation of Scriabin's mystic scale that adds a dark, flattened second degree. On Piano, it contains the notes A, Bb, C#, D#, F#, G. It combines the otherworldly sound of the Prometheus scale with an extra layer of exotic tension. Commonly used in Contemporary Classical, Experimental, Avant-Garde. Notable players include Alexander Scriabin. Use in atonal or free composition contexts. A specialized tool for experimental music that pushes beyond standard harmony.
Notes: A, Bb, C#, D#, F#, G
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3M, 4A, 6M, 7m
Degrees: 1 b2 3 #4 5 b6
Formula: H-WH-W-WH-H-W
Number of notes: 6
How to Play A Prometheus Neapolitan on Piano
On piano, the A Prometheus Neapolitan scale uses 4 black keys. With several black keys involved, let the thumb naturally fall on white keys where possible. Practice hands separately at first, paying attention to smooth thumb-under transitions.
The A Prometheus Neapolitan scale contains both sharps and flats (3 sharps, 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
Begin by playing the A Prometheus Neapolitan scale ascending and descending at 80 BPM using a metronome, one note per beat. Once comfortable, practice in thirds (A-C#, Bb-D#) to build intervallic familiarity. Spend 5 minutes daily on this pattern before increasing tempo by 10 BPM.
Experiment with simple two-chord vamps rooted on A to let the characteristic intervals of the Prometheus Neapolitan scale come through clearly.
Piano Tips
On piano, practice the A Prometheus Neapolitan 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 Prometheus Neapolitan scale contains 6 notes (A, Bb, C#, D#, F#, G). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.