G# Locrian 6 Piano Scale
Piano scale diagramAdvanced
G# Locrian 6 Scale — Notes and Intervals
The G# Locrian 6 scale is a rare and dissonant mode that adds a major sixth sparkle to a dark Locrian base. On Piano, its notes are G#, A, B, C#, D, F, F#. It provides a unique modal variation for experimental compositions and is used to create a sense of distorted major tonality. Commonly used in Experimental, Jazz, Avant-Garde. Notable players include Allan Holdsworth, Steve Coleman. Use over diminished and half-diminished chords in experimental contexts. A modal exploration tool rather than a standard jazz choice.
Notes: G#, A, B, C#, D, F, F#
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3m, 4P, 5d, 6M, 7m
Degrees: 1 b2 b3 4 5 6 b7
Formula: H-W-W-H-WH-H-W
Number of notes: 7
Also known as: locrian natural 6, locrian sharp 6
Musical Character
Adds a major 6th sparkle to the otherwise dark Locrian mode — a contradiction that creates a uniquely unsettled, 'glitchy' quality.
Genres & Notable Artists
Genres: Experimental, Jazz, Avant-Garde
Notable players: Allan Holdsworth, Steve Coleman
How to Use the G# Locrian 6 Scale
Use over diminished and half-diminished chords in experimental contexts. A modal exploration tool rather than a standard jazz choice.
Origin & Background
The second mode of the harmonic minor scale. Used in experimental composition.
How to Play G# Locrian 6 on Piano
On piano, the G# Locrian 6 scale uses 3 black keys. Start with your thumb on G# and use the black keys as landmarks for consistent finger placement. Standard major or minor fingering patterns apply.
The G# Locrian 6 scale contains 3 sharps (G#, C#, F#). Its relative major is B major, which shares the same key signature.
Practice Routine
Begin by playing the G# Locrian 6 scale ascending and descending at 100 BPM using a metronome, one note per beat. Once comfortable, practice in thirds (G#-B, A-C#) 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 G# to let the characteristic intervals of the Locrian 6 scale come through clearly. This scale is especially effective in experimental contexts.
Piano Tips
On piano, practice the G# Locrian 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. Aim for a distorted quality in your phrasing to match the natural character of this scale.
Related Scales
Locrian 6 is the 2nd mode of the Harmonic Minor scale. View G# Harmonic minor scale
The G# Locrian 6 scale contains 7 notes (G#, A, B, C#, D, F, F#). Use the interactive piano diagram above to explore this scale on Piano.