C Scriabin Piano Scale
Piano scale diagramAdvanced
C Scriabin Scale — Notes and Intervals
The C 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 C, Db, E, G, A. 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: C, Db, E, G, A
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3M, 5P, 6M
Degrees: 1 b2 3 4 5
Formula: H-WH-WH-W-WH
Number of notes: 5
Musical Character
A bridge between different symmetrical scale worlds — creating a hovering, searching quality that refuses to settle.
Genres & Notable Artists
Genres: Contemporary Classical, Experimental
Notable players: Alexander Scriabin
How to Use the C Scriabin Scale
Use in experimental and avant-garde contexts. Not designed for standard chord-scale theory.
Origin & Background
Part of Alexander Scriabin's synthetic harmonic language, designed to create a new musical universe beyond traditional tonality.
How to Play C Scriabin on Piano
On piano, the C Scriabin scale uses 1 black key. Start with your thumb on C and use the black keys as landmarks for consistent finger placement. Standard major or minor fingering patterns apply.
The C Scriabin scale contains 1 flat (Db). This scale does not follow a traditional major or minor key signature, so reading from sheet music may require accidentals.
Practice Routine
Set a metronome to 100 BPM and play the C Scriabin 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.
This scale works well over simple power chord progressions or a 12-bar blues in C. Try a C5 - G5 - A5 progression. This scale is especially effective in experimental contexts.
Piano Tips
On piano, practice the C 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. Aim for a hovering quality in your phrasing to match the natural character of this scale.
Related Scales
The C Scriabin scale contains 5 notes (C, Db, E, G, A). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.