E Messiaen's Mode #6 Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
E Messiaen's Mode #6 Scale — Notes and Intervals
The E Messiaen's Mode #6 scale is a symmetrical scale associated with radiance and light. On Piano, its notes are E, F#, G#, A, A#, C, D, D#. It creates a uniform coloration that transcends traditional keys, making the music sound brilliant and enlightened. Commonly used in Contemporary Classical, Sacred Music, Experimental. Notable players include Olivier Messiaen. Use for creating a sense of radiant, enlightened calm. Best in sustained, atmospheric contexts.
Notes: E, F#, G#, A, A#, C, D, D#
Intervals: 1P, 2M, 3M, 4P, 4A, 5A, 6A, 7M
Degrees: 1 2 3 4 #5 #6 #7 8
Formula: W-W-H-H-W-W-H-H
Number of notes: 8
How to Play E Messiaen's Mode #6 on Piano
On piano, the E Messiaen's Mode #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 E Messiaen's Mode #6 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
Set a metronome to 80 BPM and play the E Messiaen's Mode #6 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 E to let the characteristic intervals of the Messiaen's Mode #6 scale come through clearly.
Piano Tips
On piano, practice the E Messiaen's Mode #6 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 E Messiaen's Mode #6 scale contains 8 notes (E, F#, G#, A, A#, C, D, D#). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.