E Prometheus Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
E Prometheus Scale — Notes and Intervals
The E Prometheus scale was developed by the composer Alexander Scriabin as his Mystic Scale. On Piano, the notes are E, F#, G#, A#, C#, D. It is a synthetic hexatonic system designed to reflect his theosophical beliefs and reveal spiritual truths that exist beyond human conceptualization. Commonly used in Contemporary Classical, Impressionist, Experimental, Film Scores. Notable players include Alexander Scriabin, George Crumb. Use over the Mystic Chord (C-F#-Bb-E-A-D) and its inversions. Also works over 7#11 chords as a sophisticated alternative to Lydian Dominant.
Notes: E, F#, G#, A#, C#, D
Intervals: 1P, 2M, 3M, 4A, 6M, 7m
Degrees: 1 2 3 #4 5 b6
Formula: W-W-W-WH-H-W
Number of notes: 6
How to Play E Prometheus on Piano
On piano, the E Prometheus 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 Prometheus scale contains 4 sharps (F#, G#, A#, C#). This scale does not follow a traditional major or minor key signature, so reading from sheet music may require accidentals.
Practice Routine
Begin by playing the E Prometheus 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 Prometheus scale come through clearly.
Piano Tips
At the piano, try voicing the E Prometheus 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 Prometheus scale contains 6 notes (E, F#, G#, A#, C#, D). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.