F Prometheus Neapolitan Mandolin Scale — Standard
Mandolin scale in Standard tuning — fretboard diagram
F Prometheus Neapolitan in Standard — Notes and Intervals
The F Prometheus Neapolitan scale is a variation of Scriabin's mystic scale that adds a dark, flattened second degree. On Mandolin, it contains the notes F, Gb, A, B, D, Eb. It combines the otherworldly sound of the Prometheus scale with an extra layer of exotic tension. Commonly used in Contemporary Classical, Experimental, Avant-Garde. Notable players include Alexander Scriabin. Use in atonal or free composition contexts. A specialized tool for experimental music that pushes beyond standard harmony.
Notes: F, Gb, A, B, D, Eb
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3M, 4A, 6M, 7m
Degrees: 1 b2 3 #4 5 b6
Formula: H-WH-W-WH-H-W
Number of notes: 6
Tuning: Standard (G-D-A-E)
About Standard Tuning
The mandolin is tuned in fifths — G-D-A-E from low to high — the same intervals as a violin. This tuning gives the mandolin its distinctive bright, penetrating tone that cuts through any ensemble. With only four courses of doubled strings and 20 frets, the mandolin rewards precise melodic playing and rapid tremolo picking.
From Bill Monroe's invention of bluegrass to Chris Thile's genre-defying virtuosity with Punch Brothers, the mandolin has proven itself far beyond its folk roots. Its fifths tuning makes it a natural partner for fiddle players, and its compact fretboard encourages creative chord voicings and rapid scale runs that are impossible on guitar. The mandolin is also central to Italian classical music, Brazilian choro, and Irish traditional music.
Notable artists: Bill Monroe, Chris Thile, David Grisman, Sam Bush, Sierra Hull
Best for: Bluegrass leads, Celtic melodies, tremolo picking, and any ensemble that needs a bright, cutting melodic voice