F Persian Piano Scale
Piano scale diagram
F Persian Scale — Notes and Intervals
The F Persian scale is an exotic and highly symmetrical scale that evokes an authentic Middle Eastern atmosphere. On Piano, it contains the notes F, Gb, A, Bb, B, Db, E. Its dense semitones and wide intervals create a winding, hypnotic melodic path that sounds both ancient and mystical. Commonly used in Middle Eastern, Film Scores, Metal, Ambient. Notable players include Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Buckethead. Use over sustained root notes or drones. Works best in modal, non-functional harmony where the exotic intervals can breathe.
Notes: F, Gb, A, Bb, B, Db, E
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3M, 4P, 5d, 6m, 7M
Degrees: 1 b2 3 4 5 b6 7
Formula: H-WH-H-H-W-WH-H
Number of notes: 7
How to Play F Persian on Piano
On piano, the F Persian 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 Persian scale contains 3 flats (Gb, Bb, Db). 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 F Persian 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.
Exotic scales like the Persian often work best as a melodic layer over a single root drone on F. Let the unique intervals speak for themselves without frequent chord changes.
Piano Tips
On piano, practice the F Persian 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 F Persian scale contains 7 notes (F, Gb, A, Bb, B, Db, E). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.