C Segiah Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
C Segiah Scale — Notes and Intervals
The C Segiah scale is a Greek dromos that places an augmented second directly from the tonic, producing an immediate exotic tension at the very start of any melodic phrase. On Piano, the notes are C, D#, E, F, G, Ab, Bb. This bold opening interval makes it one of the most expressive dromoi in the Greek modal tradition, suited to both instrumental improvisations and deeply emotive vocal performances.
Notes: C, D#, E, F, G, Ab, Bb
Intervals: 1P, 2A, 3M, 4P, 5P, 6m, 7m
Degrees: 1 #2 3 4 5 b6 b7
Formula: WH-H-H-W-H-W-W
Number of notes: 7
How to Play C Segiah on Piano
On piano, the C Segiah scale uses 3 black keys. 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 Segiah scale contains both sharps and flats (1 sharp, 2 flats), 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 — Exercises for Playing
Practice the C Segiah scale by playing it ascending with one rhythmic feel (straight eighth notes) and descending with another (swing or triplets) at 80 BPM. This dual approach trains both technical accuracy and rhythmic versatility with the 7 notes of the scale.
Exotic scales like the Segiah often work best as a melodic layer over a single root drone on C. Let the unique intervals speak for themselves without frequent chord changes.
Piano Tips
On piano, practice the C Segiah 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 Segiah scale contains 7 notes (C, D#, E, F, G, Ab, Bb). Use the interactive fretboard diagram above to explore each shape and pattern on Piano. Practice ascending and descending from the root note to learn the sound of this scale.