F Double Harmonic Major Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
F Double Harmonic Major Scale — Notes and Intervals
The F Double Harmonic Major scale, commonly known as the Byzantine scale, is a perfectly balanced seven-note scale. On Piano, it contains the notes F, Gb, A, Bb, C, Db, E. It offers an extreme exotic tension with two augmented seconds, used to create iconic surf-rock and Middle Eastern themes. Commonly used in Middle Eastern, Surf Rock, Metal, Film Scores. Notable players include Dick Dale, Rainbow, Marty Friedman. Use over major chords in Middle Eastern and surf rock contexts. The b2 and b6 add exotic color to an otherwise major framework.
Notes: F, Gb, A, Bb, C, Db, E
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3M, 4P, 5P, 6m, 7M
Degrees: 1 b2 3 4 5 b6 7
Formula: H-WH-H-W-H-WH-H
Number of notes: 7
Also known as: gypsy
How to Play F Double Harmonic Major on Piano
On piano, the F Double Harmonic Major scale uses 3 black keys. Start with your thumb on F and use the black keys as landmarks for consistent finger placement. Standard major or minor fingering patterns apply.
The F Double Harmonic Major scale contains 3 flats (Gb, Bb, Db). Its relative minor is Db minor, which shares the same notes.
Practice Routine
Begin by playing the F Double Harmonic Major scale ascending and descending at 80 BPM using a metronome, one note per beat. Once comfortable, practice in thirds (F-A, Gb-Bb) 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 F to let the characteristic intervals of the Double Harmonic Major scale come through clearly.
Piano Tips
At the piano, try voicing the F Double Harmonic Major 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 F Double Harmonic Major scale contains 7 notes (F, Gb, A, Bb, C, Db, E). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.