E Messiaen's Mode #3 Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
E Messiaen's Mode #3 Scale — Notes and Intervals
The E Messiaen's Mode #3 scale is a complex nine-note symmetrical scale used by Olivier Messiaen. On Piano, its notes are E, F#, G, G#, A#, B, C, D, D#. It creates a cosmic, suspended tonality that feels both religious and scientific, evoking a sense of divine awe. Commonly used in Contemporary Classical, Film Scores, Ambient, Experimental. Notable players include Olivier Messiaen, Gyorgy Ligeti, Thomas Ades. Use for creating atmospheres of 'cosmic awe'. Not bound to traditional chord progressions — works best over sustained harmonies or ostinato patterns.
Notes: E, F#, G, G#, A#, B, C, D, D#
Intervals: 1P, 2M, 3m, 3M, 4A, 5P, 6m, 7m, 7M
Degrees: 1 2 b3 4 #5 6 b7 b8 9
Formula: W-H-H-W-H-H-W-H-H
Number of notes: 9
How to Play E Messiaen's Mode #3 on Piano
On piano, the E Messiaen's Mode #3 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 E Messiaen's Mode #3 scale contains 4 sharps (F#, G#, A#, D#). This scale does not follow a traditional major or minor key signature, so reading from sheet music may require accidentals.
Practice Routine
Practice the E Messiaen's Mode #3 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 9 notes of the scale.
Experiment with simple two-chord vamps rooted on E to let the characteristic intervals of the Messiaen's Mode #3 scale come through clearly.
Piano Tips
At the piano, try voicing the E Messiaen's Mode #3 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 E Messiaen's Mode #3 scale contains 9 notes (E, F#, G, G#, A#, B, C, D, D#). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.