C Locrian #2 Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
C Locrian #2 Scale — Notes and Intervals
The C Locrian #2 scale is a more usable and consonant version of the standard Locrian mode. On Piano, it contains the notes C, D, Eb, F, Gb, Ab, Bb. 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: C, D, Eb, F, Gb, Ab, Bb
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 C Locrian #2 on Piano
On piano, the C Locrian #2 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 C Locrian #2 scale contains 4 flats (Eb, Gb, Ab, Bb). Its relative major is Eb major, which shares the same key signature.
Practice Routine
Set a metronome to 80 BPM and play the C 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 C to let the characteristic intervals of the Locrian #2 scale come through clearly.
Piano Tips
On piano, practice the C Locrian #2 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 C Locrian #2 scale contains 7 notes (C, D, Eb, F, Gb, Ab, Bb). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.