E Mixolydian B6 Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
E Mixolydian B6 Scale — Notes and Intervals
The E Mixolydian B6 scale is a melancholic dominant scale used when a song is in a major key but the dominant chord needs to resolve into a minor key. On Piano, the notes are E, F#, G#, A, B, C, D. It provides a bridge between the bright major and the sad minor worlds, perfect for emotional transitions. Commonly used in Jazz, Film Scores, Classical, Melodic Metal. Notable players include Hans Zimmer, Ennio Morricone. Use over dominant 7th chords that resolve to minor (V7 → im). The scale that bridges major happiness and minor sadness.
Notes: E, F#, G#, A, B, C, D
Intervals: 1P, 2M, 3M, 4P, 5P, 6m, 7m
Degrees: 1 2 3 4 5 b6 b7
Formula: W-W-H-W-H-W-W
Number of notes: 7
Also known as: melodic minor fifth mode, hindu
How to Play E Mixolydian B6 on Piano
On piano, the E Mixolydian B6 scale uses 2 black keys. Start with your thumb on E and use the black keys as landmarks for consistent finger placement. Standard major or minor fingering patterns apply.
The E Mixolydian B6 scale contains 2 sharps (F#, G#). Its relative minor is C minor, which shares the same notes.
Practice Routine
Begin by playing the E Mixolydian B6 scale ascending and descending at 80 BPM using a metronome, one note per beat. Once comfortable, practice in thirds (E-G#, F#-A) 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 E to let the characteristic intervals of the Mixolydian B6 scale come through clearly.
Piano Tips
At the piano, try voicing the E Mixolydian B6 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 Mixolydian B6 scale contains 7 notes (E, F#, G#, A, B, C, D). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.