E Persian Guitar Scale — DADGAD
Guitar scale in DADGAD tuning — fretboard diagram
E Persian in DADGAD — Notes and Intervals
The E Persian scale is an exotic and highly symmetrical scale that evokes an authentic Middle Eastern atmosphere. On Guitar, it contains the notes E, F, G#, A, Bb, C, D#. 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: E, F, G#, A, Bb, C, D#
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: DADGAD (D-A-D-G-A-D)
About DADGAD Tuning
DADGAD tuning creates an open Dsus4 chord when strummed open, producing a hauntingly beautiful, droning sound that has become synonymous with Celtic folk music and modern acoustic songwriting. The tuning's natural resonance and overtones make even simple fingerpicking patterns sound rich and complex.
Popularized by Davey Graham in the 1960s and later championed by Pierre Bensusan and Jimmy Page, DADGAD has become one of the most beloved alternate tunings for acoustic guitarists. Its suspended quality — neither clearly major nor minor — creates an ethereal, meditative atmosphere that invites exploration. The tuning excels at creating drone-based arrangements where open strings ring against fretted notes.
Notable artists: Pierre Bensusan, Jimmy Page, Andy McKee, Davey Graham, Laurence Juber
Best for: Celtic folk, acoustic songwriting, drone-based fingerpicking, and meditative compositions
Explore This Scale in Other Tunings
- E Persian in Standard Tuning
- E Persian in Drop D
- E Persian in Open G
- E Persian in Baritone (B Standard)
- E Persian in 7-string
- E Persian in 8-string
- E Persian in Drop C
- E Persian in Drop B
- E Persian in Open D
- E Persian in Half Step Down
- E Persian in Open E
- E Persian in Open A
- E Persian in Double Drop D
- E Persian in Open C