scale
Ukulele fretboard diagram
C enigmatic scale — ukulele chords and intervals
The harmonized C enigmatic scale produces a puzzling chord family that defies conventional harmonic expectations. The chords from C enigmatic are C augmented, Gb major, E major, Gb (1-3-♭5), Ab (1-♭3-4), Bb (1-2-♭5), B suspended second. The absence of standard fourth and fifth relationships means no traditional cadences are possible. These chords create a surreal, gliding harmonic feel that challenges the listener, perfect for musical puzzles and experimental storytelling. Commonly used in Classical, Experimental, Film Scores. Notable players include Giuseppe Verdi, Igor Stravinsky.
The C enigmatic scale has the following degrees: 1 ♭2 3 ♭5 ♭6 ♭7 7.
Intervals: H-3H-W-W-W-H-H.
Diatonic chords: C augmented, Gb major, E major, Gb (1-3-♭5), Ab (1-♭3-4), Bb (1-2-♭5), B suspended second.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | C augmented |
| ii | Gb major |
| iii | E major |
| IV | Gb (1-3-♭5) |
| V | Ab (1-♭3-4) |
| vi | Bb (1-2-♭5) |
| vii° | B suspended second |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (C augmented) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (Gb major) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (E major) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (Gb (1-3-♭5)) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (Ab (1-♭3-4)) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (Bb (1-2-♭5)) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (B suspended second) 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 C enigmatic 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 C enigmatic scale on ukulele.
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Not chord-specific — this is a melodic scale for creating surreal, non-functional passages. Use over sustained pedal tones or atonal contexts.