A Scriabin Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
A Scriabin Scale — Notes and Intervals
The A Scriabin scale is a synthetic six-note scale that reflects Alexander Scriabin's interest in creating a new harmonic language. On Piano, its notes are A, Bb, C#, E, F#. It acts as a bridge between different symmetrical worlds, offering a unique, hovering sound. Commonly used in Contemporary Classical, Experimental. Notable players include Alexander Scriabin. Use in experimental and avant-garde contexts. Not designed for standard chord-scale theory.
Notes: A, Bb, C#, E, F#
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3M, 5P, 6M
Degrees: 1 b2 3 4 5
Formula: H-WH-WH-W-WH
Number of notes: 5
How to Play A Scriabin on Piano
On piano, the A Scriabin scale uses 3 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 Scriabin scale contains both sharps and flats (2 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 Scriabin scale ascending and descending at 80 BPM using a metronome, one note per beat. Once comfortable, practice in thirds (A-C#, Bb-E) to build intervallic familiarity. Spend 5 minutes daily on this pattern before increasing tempo by 10 BPM.
This scale works well over simple power chord progressions or a 12-bar blues in A. Try a A5 - E5 - F#5 progression.
Piano Tips
On piano, practice the A Scriabin 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 Scriabin scale contains 5 notes (A, Bb, C#, E, F#). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.