A# Locrian #2 Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
A# Locrian #2 Scale — Notes and Intervals
The A# Locrian #2 scale is a more usable and consonant version of the standard Locrian mode. On Piano, it contains the notes A#, C, C#, D#, E, F#, G#. It is the preferred choice for jazz musicians soloing over half-diminished chords, as its natural second degree allows for much smoother and more melodic voice leading. Commonly used in Jazz, Post-Bop, Contemporary. Notable players include John Coltrane, Woody Shaw, Steve Coleman. Use over m7b5 chords. The preferred jazz choice over half-diminished chords (vs standard Locrian which sounds too harsh).
Notes: A#, C, C#, D#, E, F#, G#
Intervals: 1P, 2M, 3m, 4P, 5d, 6m, 7m
Degrees: 1 2 b3 4 5 b6 b7
Formula: W-H-W-H-W-W-W
Number of notes: 7
Also known as: half-diminished, aeolian b5
How to Play A# Locrian #2 on Piano
On piano, the A# Locrian #2 scale uses 5 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# Locrian #2 scale contains 5 sharps (A#, C#, D#, F#, G#). Its relative major is C# major, which shares the same key signature.
Practice Routine
Set a metronome to 80 BPM and play the A# Locrian #2 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 Locrian #2 scale come through clearly.
Piano Tips
At the piano, try voicing the A# Locrian #2 scale in the left hand as blocked intervals (thirds or sixths) while the right hand plays the melody. This develops your harmonic ear and comping skills simultaneously.
The A# Locrian #2 scale contains 7 notes (A#, C, C#, D#, E, F#, G#). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.