D# Locrian 6 Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
D# Locrian 6 Scale — Notes and Intervals
The D# Locrian 6 scale is a rare and dissonant mode that adds a major sixth sparkle to a dark Locrian base. On Piano, its notes are D#, E, F#, G#, A, C, C#. It provides a unique modal variation for experimental compositions and is used to create a sense of distorted major tonality. Commonly used in Experimental, Jazz, Avant-Garde. Notable players include Allan Holdsworth, Steve Coleman. Use over diminished and half-diminished chords in experimental contexts. A modal exploration tool rather than a standard jazz choice.
Notes: D#, E, F#, G#, A, C, C#
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3m, 4P, 5d, 6M, 7m
Degrees: 1 b2 b3 4 5 6 b7
Formula: H-W-W-H-WH-H-W
Number of notes: 7
Also known as: locrian natural 6, locrian sharp 6
How to Play D# Locrian 6 on Piano
On piano, the D# Locrian 6 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 D# Locrian 6 scale contains 4 sharps (D#, F#, G#, C#). Its relative major is F# major, which shares the same key signature.
Practice Routine
Begin by playing the D# Locrian 6 scale ascending and descending at 80 BPM using a metronome, one note per beat. Once comfortable, practice in thirds (D#-F#, E-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 Locrian 6 scale come through clearly.
Piano Tips
At the piano, try voicing the D# Locrian 6 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# Locrian 6 scale contains 7 notes (D#, E, F#, G#, A, C, C#). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.