D Prometheus Neapolitan Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
D Prometheus Neapolitan Scale — Notes and Intervals
The D Prometheus Neapolitan scale is a variation of Scriabin's mystic scale that adds a dark, flattened second degree. On Piano, it contains the notes D, Eb, F#, G#, B, C. It combines the otherworldly sound of the Prometheus scale with an extra layer of exotic tension. Commonly used in Contemporary Classical, Experimental, Avant-Garde. Notable players include Alexander Scriabin. Use in atonal or free composition contexts. A specialized tool for experimental music that pushes beyond standard harmony.
Notes: D, Eb, F#, G#, B, C
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3M, 4A, 6M, 7m
Degrees: 1 b2 3 #4 5 b6
Formula: H-WH-W-WH-H-W
Number of notes: 6
How to Play D Prometheus Neapolitan on Piano
On piano, the D Prometheus Neapolitan scale uses 3 black keys. Start with your thumb on D and use the black keys as landmarks for consistent finger placement. Standard major or minor fingering patterns apply.
The D Prometheus Neapolitan scale contains both sharps and flats (2 sharps, 1 flat), 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
Begin by playing the D Prometheus Neapolitan scale ascending and descending at 80 BPM using a metronome, one note per beat. Once comfortable, practice in thirds (D-F#, Eb-G#) to build intervallic familiarity. Spend 5 minutes daily on this pattern before increasing tempo by 10 BPM.
Experiment with simple two-chord vamps rooted on D to let the characteristic intervals of the Prometheus Neapolitan scale come through clearly.
Piano Tips
At the piano, try voicing the D Prometheus Neapolitan 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 D Prometheus Neapolitan scale contains 6 notes (D, Eb, F#, G#, B, C). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.