C# Neapolitan Major Guitar Scale — Drop C
Guitar scale in Drop C tuning — fretboard diagram
C# Neapolitan Major in Drop C — Notes and Intervals
The C# Neapolitan Major scale is a sophisticated and bright variation of the Neapolitan minor. On Guitar, the notes are C#, D, E, F#, G#, A#, C. It provides a chromatic, Spanish feel that is often used in classical music to approach the home key with an elegant, unexpected twist. Commonly used in Classical, Opera, Film Scores. Notable players include Chopin, Verdi, Puccini. Use over bII-V-I cadences. The source of the Neapolitan sixth chord, one of classical music's most elegant chromatic devices.
Notes: C#, D, E, F#, G#, A#, C
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3m, 4P, 5P, 6M, 7M
Degrees: 1 b2 b3 4 5 6 7
Formula: H-W-W-W-W-W-H
Number of notes: 7
Tuning: Drop C (C-G-C-F-A-D)
About Drop C Tuning
Drop C tuning (C-G-C-F-A-D) drops every string one whole step below Drop D, delivering a massive, brutal low-end that has defined the sound of modern metalcore, post-hardcore, and nu-metal. The low C string provides earth-shaking power chords with a single finger while maintaining familiar Drop D shapes — just two frets lower.
From System of a Down's iconic riffs to Killswitch Engage's crushing breakdowns, Drop C has become the standard tuning for heavy music that needs to sound bigger than standard Drop D. It bridges the gap between standard guitar territory and the extended range of 7-string guitars, making it accessible to players who want heavier tones without buying a new instrument.
Notable artists: System of a Down, Killswitch Engage, Bullet for My Valentine, As I Lay Dying, August Burns Red
Best for: Modern metalcore breakdowns, heavy power chord riffs, nu-metal grooves, and aggressive rhythm playing
Explore This Scale in Other Tunings
- C# Neapolitan Major in Standard Tuning
- C# Neapolitan Major in Drop D
- C# Neapolitan Major in DADGAD
- C# Neapolitan Major in Open G
- C# Neapolitan Major in Baritone (B Standard)
- C# Neapolitan Major in 7-string
- C# Neapolitan Major in 8-string
- C# Neapolitan Major in Drop B
- C# Neapolitan Major in Open D
- C# Neapolitan Major in Half Step Down
- C# Neapolitan Major in Open E
- C# Neapolitan Major in Open A
- C# Neapolitan Major in Double Drop D
- C# Neapolitan Major in Open C