D# Ultralocrian Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
D# Ultralocrian Scale — Notes and Intervals
The D# Ultralocrian scale is an extremely dark and condensed scale used to create intense chromatic tension. On Piano, its notes are D#, E, F#, G, A, B, C. It is used in avant-garde jazz and dark ambient music to explore the most dissonant boundaries of minor-key tonality. Commonly used in Avant-Garde, Dark Ambient, Experimental Jazz. Notable players include John Zorn, Derek Bailey. Use over dim7 chords in avant-garde contexts. More of a compositional tool than an improvisational one.
Notes: D#, E, F#, G, A, B, C
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3m, 4d, 5d, 6m, 7d
Degrees: 1 b2 b3 4 5 b6 7
Formula: H-W-H-W-W-H-WH
Number of notes: 7
Also known as: superlocrian bb7, superlocrian diminished
How to Play D# Ultralocrian on Piano
On piano, the D# Ultralocrian scale uses 2 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# Ultralocrian scale contains 2 sharps (D#, F#). Its relative major is F# major, which shares the same key signature.
Practice Routine
Set a metronome to 80 BPM and play the D# Ultralocrian 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 D# to let the characteristic intervals of the Ultralocrian scale come through clearly.
Piano Tips
At the piano, try voicing the D# Ultralocrian 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# Ultralocrian scale contains 7 notes (D#, E, F#, G, A, B, C). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.