A Persian Banjo 5 String Scale
Banjo 5 String scale in Standard (Open G) tuning — fretboard diagram
A Persian in Standard (Open G) — Notes and Intervals
The A Persian scale is an exotic and highly symmetrical scale that evokes an authentic Middle Eastern atmosphere. On Banjo 5 String, it contains the notes A, Bb, C#, D, Eb, F, G#. 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: A, Bb, C#, D, Eb, F, G#
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
Tuning: Standard (Open G) (D-B-G-D-G)