A Diminished Cavaquinho Scale — Standard
Cavaquinho scale in Standard tuning — fretboard diagram
A Diminished in Standard — Notes and Intervals
The A Diminished scale, also known as the Octatonic scale and Messiaen's Mode of Limited Transposition #2, alternates whole and half steps to create an 8-note symmetrical structure. On Cavaquinho, its notes are A, B, C, D, Eb, F, F#, G#. Only three unique diminished scales exist — after three transpositions, the notes repeat. It is the definitive sound of film noir, thrillers, and psychological horror, used by composers from Stravinsky to Hans Zimmer to evoke dread, ambiguity, and mounting tension. Use it over dim7 chords and as a sophisticated tension device over dominant 7ths. Commonly used in Jazz, Film Scores, Classical, Metal. Notable players include Django Reinhardt, Joe Pass, Bela Bartok, Dream Theater. Use over dim7 chords and as a tension device over dominant 7ths. Each diminished scale works over 4 different root notes (every minor 3rd).
Notes: A, B, C, D, Eb, F, F#, G#
Intervals: 1P, 2M, 3m, 4P, 5d, 6m, 6M, 7M
Degrees: 1 2 b3 4 5 b6 7 8
Formula: W-H-W-H-W-H-W-H
Number of notes: 8
Tuning: Standard (D-G-B-D)
Also known as: whole-half diminished
About Standard Tuning
The cavaquinho is a small four-string Brazilian instrument tuned D-G-B-D, producing a bright, punchy tone that drives the rhythm in samba, choro, and pagode. Its steel strings and small body create a percussive attack that cuts through percussion-heavy ensembles, making it the rhythmic backbone of Brazilian popular music.
The cavaquinho (also spelled cavaco) is to Brazilian music what the guitar is to rock — absolutely essential. In samba, the cavaquinho player provides the rhythmic centro (center) that holds the bateria (percussion section) together. In choro, it takes on a more melodic role, weaving intricate lines between the bandolim and guitar. Waldir Azevedo's 'Brasileirinho' is perhaps the most famous cavaquinho piece, showcasing the instrument's virtuosic potential. The cavaquinho is also the ancestor of the Hawaiian ukulele, brought to the islands by Portuguese immigrants.
Notable artists: Waldir Azevedo, Paulinho da Viola, Beth Carvalho, Nelson Cavaquinho, Luciana Rabello
Best for: Samba rhythm, choro melody and accompaniment, pagode, and Brazilian ensemble playing