B Hirajoshi Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
B Hirajoshi Scale — Notes and Intervals
The B Hirajoshi scale is the most iconic Japanese scale, originally used for tuning the koto. On Piano, it contains the notes B, C#, D, F#, G. Its poignant intervals create a wistful, traditional sound that has been adopted by rock guitarists to add an oriental edge to modern music. Commonly used in Japanese, Rock, Metal, Ambient, Film Scores. Notable players include Joe Satriani, Marty Friedman, Miyavi. Use over minor chords, sus2, and open string drones. Works beautifully with ambient effects and reverb for atmospheric textures.
Notes: B, C#, D, F#, G
Intervals: 1P, 2M, 3m, 5P, 6m
Degrees: 1 2 b3 4 b5
Formula: W-H-4-H-4
Number of notes: 5
How to Play B Hirajoshi on Piano
On piano, the B Hirajoshi scale uses 2 black keys. Start with your thumb on B and use the black keys as landmarks for consistent finger placement. Standard major or minor fingering patterns apply.
The B Hirajoshi scale contains 2 sharps (C#, F#). 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 B Hirajoshi scale ascending and descending at 80 BPM using a metronome, one note per beat. Once comfortable, practice in thirds (B-D, C#-F#) 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 B. Try a B5 - F#5 - G5 progression.
Piano Tips
At the piano, try voicing the B Hirajoshi 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 B Hirajoshi scale contains 5 notes (B, C#, D, F#, G). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.