scale
Ukulele fretboard diagram
A locrian major scale — ukulele chords and intervals
Harmonizing the A locrian major scale yields a paradoxical chord family that sounds simultaneously familiar and alien. The chords of A locrian major are A (1-3-♭5), B diminished, C# (1-2-♭5), D minor, Eb augmented, F augmented, G major. The major third against a Locrian base creates cognitive dissonance in the listener. These chords are used in experimental 20th-century compositions to explore the boundary between tonality and atonality. Commonly used in Experimental, Contemporary Classical, Avant-Garde. Notable players include Bela Bartok, Gyorgy Ligeti.
The A locrian major scale has the following degrees: 1 2 3 4 ♭5 ♭6 ♭7.
Intervals: W-W-H-H-W-W-W.
Diatonic chords: A (1-3-♭5), B diminished, C# (1-2-♭5), D minor, Eb augmented, F augmented, G major.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | A (1-3-♭5) |
| ii | B diminished |
| iii | C# (1-2-♭5) |
| IV | D minor |
| V | Eb augmented |
| vi | F augmented |
| vii° | G major |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (A (1-3-♭5)) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (B diminished) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (C# (1-2-♭5)) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (D minor) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (Eb augmented) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (F augmented) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (G major) is the diminished — the most tense, rarely used alone, usually leading to the I.
This page focuses on the harmonic content — the chords built from each degree of the A locrian major scale. For fretboard patterns and fingering guides, see the scale page.
Use the interactive harmonizer above to explore triads, seventh chords, and chord voicings for composing with the A locrian major scale on ukulele.
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use in experimental composition over polytonal or atonal passages. A tool for creating cognitive dissonance.