scale
Ukulele fretboard diagram
D bebop major scale — ukulele chords and intervals
The harmonized D bebop major scale yields a major chord family with an added chromatic link between the fifth and sixth degrees, creating the flowing harmonic rhythm essential to swing. The chords from D bebop major are D major, E diminished, F# (1-♭3-4), G diminished, B minor seventh, A# diminished, B minor, C# diminished. The extra chord produces a seamless descending chromatic voice in the inner parts. This is the harmonic basis for the classic four-to-the-bar comping style that defined the swing era. Commonly used in Jazz, Swing, Bebop. Notable players include Wes Montgomery, Barney Kessel, Kenny Burrell.
The D bebop major scale has the following degrees: 1 2 3 4 5 ♯5 6 7.
Intervals: W-W-H-W-H-H-W-H.
Diatonic chords: D major, E diminished, F# (1-♭3-4), G diminished, B minor seventh, A# diminished, B minor, C# diminished.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | D major |
| ii | E diminished |
| iii | F# (1-♭3-4) |
| IV | G diminished |
| V | B minor seventh |
| vi | A# diminished |
| vii° | B minor |
| 8 | C# diminished |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (D major) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (E diminished) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (F# (1-♭3-4)) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (G diminished) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (B minor seventh) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (A# diminished) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (B minor) 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 D bebop 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 D bebop major scale on ukulele.
bebop major is the Major scale with added #5 chromatic passing tone. View D Major scale
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over Maj7, Maj6 chords. Essential for the smooth, flowing lines of traditional swing and bebop over major harmony.